When it comes to radon, misinformation is everywhere. Some people think it’s only a problem in certain states. Others believe that new homes or buildings are safe, or that if their neighbor’s home tested low, theirs must be fine too. Spoiler alert: None of that is true.
As a national radon mitigation company, we’ve heard every myth in the book—and we’re here to set the record straight. Let’s break down the most common radon myths and what you really need to know to protect your home and health.
❌ MYTH #1: Radon Isn’t a Big Deal
TRUTH:
Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., according to the EPA—and the #1 cause among non-smokers. Long-term exposure to elevated radon levels significantly increases the risk of lung cancer. Just because you can’t see or smell it doesn’t mean it’s not present or harmless.
❌ MYTH #2: My House Doesn’t Have a Basement, So I’m Safe
TRUTH:
Radon enters through the ground, so any home or business in contact with soil is at risk—even if it’s built on a slab or has a crawl space. We’ve seen high radon levels in single-story homes, apartments, condos, schools, and businesses.
❌ MYTH #3: Only Certain Areas Have Radon Problems
TRUTH:
Radon is found in every state and can affect homes or businesses regardless of region, elevation, or zip code. Even within the same neighborhood—or the same block—radon levels can vary dramatically from house to house due to soil composition and construction style.
❌ MYTH #4: My Neighbor Tested for Radon, So I Don’t Need To
TRUTH:
Radon levels are highly localized. Your neighbor’s test results have no bearing on your own home. Two homes side by side can have drastically different radon levels based on foundation cracks, ventilation, and pressure differences.
❌ MYTH #5: I Have a New Home, So I’m Protected
TRUTH:
New homes or businesses are not immune to radon. In fact, many new homes are built more airtight, which can trap radon inside more easily. While some new builds include passive radon systems, these often aren’t enough on their own—testing and active mitigation may still be needed.
❌ MYTH #6: Radon Mitigation Is Complicated and Expensive
TRUTH:
Radon mitigation is affordable, non-invasive, and highly effective. Most systems cost less than $2000 and installation can be completed in just one day. The systems are quiet, discreet, and reduce radon levels by up to 99%.
❌ MYTH #7: Sealing Cracks Is Enough to Fix the Problem
TRUTH:
Sealing foundation cracks is helpful, but it’s not a solution on its own. Radon gas is under pressure and can still seep in through the tiniest openings. A properly installed active radon mitigation system is the only reliable way to reduce levels significantly and consistently.
❌ MYTH #8: If My Home Passed a Test Once, I Never Need to Test Again
TRUTH:
Radon levels can change over time due to weather, soil movement, home renovations, or changes in HVAC systems. The EPA recommends testing every 2 years or after any major structural changes to your home—even if you’ve tested in the past.
✅ Final Thoughts: Don’t Trust the Myths—Trust the Data
Radon is a real, measurable threat that causes lung cancer—but it’s one that can be managed with the right information and the right mitigation system. Don’t let myths stand in the way of protecting your home and your loved ones.
📞 Ready to test or need a mitigation quote? SWAT Environmental is here to help.
👉 Schedule your radon test or consultation today.