Foundation Cracks and Radon: Why Repairs Are Essential

In St. Paul, Minnesota, radon exposure is one of the most overlooked home health hazards. This naturally occurring gas seeps into homes through cracks and gaps in the foundation, often without any visible warning signs. While foundation cracks are common in older and newer homes alike, ignoring them can allow radon levels to rise far beyond the EPA’s safety threshold.

At BreatheWell Radon Solutions, we help homeowners understand how foundation integrity directly affects indoor air safety—and why timely repairs are a crucial part of radon prevention.

How Foundation Cracks Invite Radon Indoors

Radon forms underground as uranium in the soil breaks down. It migrates upward and enters buildings through any available opening. In St. Paul’s cold climate, homes are tightly sealed during the winter, which increases indoor air pressure differences. These pressure variations draw soil gases—including radon—through foundation cracks, floor joints, and utility penetrations.

Even hairline fractures in your basement floor or foundation wall can become significant radon entry points over time.

The Real Risk: Radon Buildup and Long-Term Exposure

Because radon is odorless and invisible, it accumulates silently. Prolonged exposure to elevated levels increases the risk of lung cancer, making it the second leading cause nationwide. Foundation cracks accelerate this process by creating direct channels for radon to flow into basements, crawl spaces, and living areas.

Repairing cracks not only strengthens your structure—it helps cut off the most common routes for radon to enter your home.

Foundation Repairs Are a Critical Part of Radon Mitigation

Many homeowners treat foundation crack repair and radon mitigation as separate services, but they actually work best together. Sealing cracks before or during mitigation helps create a more airtight barrier beneath your home, allowing your radon system to perform at peak efficiency.

At BreatheWell Radon Solutions, our technicians assess both your foundation’s condition and your radon readings to develop a coordinated plan that ensures lasting results.

Understanding Minnesota’s Climate and Soil Impact

Minnesota’s freeze-thaw cycles are notorious for causing foundation movement and cracking. As water in the soil freezes, it expands, putting pressure on concrete walls and floors. Once the ice melts, small gaps are left behind—ideal entry points for radon.

That’s why regular inspection and maintenance are vital, especially before winter sets in. Addressing foundation cracks early helps prevent both structural damage and gas intrusion.

Professional Testing and Repair: The Right Combination

Even if you seal visible cracks, radon can still find its way through unseen gaps. The only way to know if your home is safe is through professional radon testing.

BreatheWell Radon Solutions provides accurate testing and thorough analysis, helping homeowners understand whether foundation repairs alone are enough—or if a mitigation system is necessary. We use proven sealing methods that prevent moisture, gas, and air leakage while maintaining the natural flexibility your foundation needs to withstand seasonal changes.

A Long-Term Investment in Home Safety

Radon doesn’t discriminate between old and new homes. Every property in St. Paul is vulnerable, regardless of foundation type or age. Combining timely foundation repairs with effective radon mitigation protects your home’s value, improves air quality, and provides peace of mind for your family.

Our certified specialists handle everything—from diagnostic testing to system installation and post-repair verification—so you can breathe confidently knowing your home is safe.

Protect Your Home from Radon and Foundation Damage

If you’ve noticed cracks forming in your basement or around your foundation walls, don’t ignore them. These small openings may be letting in more than just moisture—they could be allowing radon into your living space.

Contact BreatheWell Radon Solutions in St. Paul today for a professional inspection, precise radon testing, and durable foundation crack repair. We’ll help you build a stronger, safer home—starting from the ground up.