All homes require maintenance and upkeep. When it comes to a basements & crawl spaces, one of the main concerns is seepage or rising water. When there’s a water problem within the foundation, homeowners usually act quickly to fix the problem and prevent further damage. But what about other problems in your basement or crawl space? What about problems that are invisible and could potentially be more dangerous?
Invisible Issues
When it comes to basements and crawl spaces, radon gas infiltration, mold spores and mildew are common problems. All of these problems have a MAJOR influence on the air you breathe inside your home. They can easily enter your house through the foundation, slab & cove (where the wall meets the floor). This harmful air eventually makes it’s way in up to 50% of your living space air.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the 2nd leading cause of lung cancer is from radon gas poisoning. If undetected, over the years, it can potentially pose a life threatening problem. However, this does not have to happen.
So How Do I Fix It?
There are actually a couple of different ways to help.
- You can waterproof your basement. You can contact your local basement waterproofing contractor.
- Seal & Insulate the Crawl Space (this is going to provide immediate & long term benefits)
- Invest in a Radon Detector from your hardware stores, home improvement stores or online. (If your home has a radon level of 4 or higher, you need to take action) Click here for more information on testing your home.