Rossn has been remodeling the lower level of his Colorado home and in the process discovered evidence of some moisture and bulk water issues. Although the problems are not severe enough to make the lower level a “wet basement,” Rossn has developed a plan to better manage water near the house, and solve a radon problem at the same time.

In a Q&A post, Rossn outlines his approach in the drawing that appears on the right.

His plan is to connect the radon mitigation system to the sump, and thus the perimeter footer drain, but he’s concerned that the dimple mat on the outside of the foundation will interfere by causing the system to lose suction.

“I’m not sure the trench/French drain approach will work for me near the surface, given my soil is 60% sand and drains easily,” Rossn says. “I added a liner, though am not sure if that will work, and ultimately I’d tie it into the rest of the gutter system.”

The perimeter drain is virtually flat and is as much as 110 feet from the sump. (A plan view of the project is reproduced as Image #2, below).

Will this plan work? That’s the topic for this Q&A Spotlight.

Some changes to consider

GBA Editor Martin Holladay finds Rossn’s approach sound, but he suggests two modifications.

“Your underground roof is a little close to the surface,” he says. “Either erosion or a curious dog digging a hole might expose the underground roof — so if site conditions allow, you might lower the underground roof.”

Holladay also questions Rossn’s intent to connect radon piping to his perimeter drainage system.

“In general, you don’t want to connect a radon mitigation system to any pipe that leads to daylight or is…