Radon in Basements – What You Need to Know in the Niagara Region
- Jesse J.
- Apr 1
- 3 min read
Radon in Basements – What You Need to Know in the Niagara Region
Radon gas is an invisible, odorless, and tasteless threat that could be lurking in your basement without you even knowing. As a radioactive gas released from the natural decay of uranium in soil and rock, radon can seep into homes through cracks, drains, and other openings in the foundation. In the Niagara Region, where radon levels are relatively high due to the area's geology, testing and mitigation are essential steps to protect your family’s health.
Why Should You Be Concerned About Radon?
Radon exposure is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers, responsible for over 3,000 deaths annually in Canada. While radon levels outdoors are harmless due to dilution, it can accumulate indoors to dangerous levels over time. Basements are particularly vulnerable because they are below ground level and in direct contact with soil.
How Does Radon Enter Your Home?
Radon can infiltrate your home through:
Cracks in the foundation or walls.
Gaps around pipes and drains.
Construction joints.
Unfinished crawlspaces or sump pits.
Homes that are tightly sealed or well-insulated may trap radon more effectively, increasing its concentration indoors.
Testing for Radon in the Niagara Region
The only way to know if your home has high radon levels is through testing. Short-term tests provide results within a few days, while long-term tests offer a more accurate picture over several months. Place the testing kit in the lowest livable area of your home, such as the basement, for best results.
Radon levels are measured in Becquerels per cubic meter (Bq/m³). Health Canada recommends action if levels exceed 200 Bq/m³. For levels above 600 Bq/m³, mitigation should be completed within one year.
Mitigation Options for High Radon Levels
If testing reveals elevated radon levels, mitigation is necessary to reduce exposure. Common strategies include:
Sealing Entry Points: Close gaps around pipes, cracks, and drains to limit radon infiltration.
Active Soil Depressurization (ASD): Install a fan system to draw radon gas from beneath the home and vent it outside. This is considered the most effective method for existing homes.
Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV): Improve ventilation by exchanging indoor air with outdoor air while maintaining energy efficiency.
Mitigation systems are quiet, energy-efficient, and require minimal maintenance when installed by certified professionals.
Radon Levels in Niagara Region Homes
The Niagara Region is listed as a high-risk area for radon exposure due to its proximity to the escarpment and uranium-rich soil. Homes tested in areas like Niagara Falls often show levels between 200–600 Bq/m³—up to three times higher than Health Canada’s recommended limit.
Take Action Today
Protecting your family from radon exposure doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s what you can do:
Test your home using a DIY kit or hire a certified professional.
If radon levels are high, consult a certified mitigation specialist to install an effective system tailored to your home’s needs.
Retest after mitigation to ensure levels remain low over time.
Radon is a problem you can solve—and once resolved, you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing your home is safe for years to come.
For residents of the Niagara Region—including St. Catharines, Lincoln, Welland, and surrounding areas—local experts are available to help with testing and mitigation services.
Don’t wait—contact us today to test your basement & give you a free-estimate! Lakeside Carpentry & Renovations
Jesse J. - 289-696-3106
Comments