Top 5 Radon Myths

There is a lot of information out there about radon, and even more opinions about it. Is it real? Does it actually cause cancer? Does radon mitigation work? Lets address the top 5 radon myths.

Only SOME scientists recognize radon as a problem.

There is some dispute about the number of deaths that can be attributed to radon, but all major health organizations backed by science agree that radon is linked to thousands of preventable lung cancer deaths every year.

Radon is only a problem in certain areas.

Radon is caused when uranium in soil decays and can be found ANYWHERE that there is soil, rocks, dirt, etc. Now there is some truth that some areas may begin with a higher concentration of uranium, therefore HIGHER levels of radon may be found. But radon can be found everywhere.

My neighbors radon level is the same as mine.

This is one we hear a lot and it is totally false. The soil is different inch by inch, so your foundation is built on different soil. And then there is your house. Maybe a different kind of cement was used, maybe you have more gaps around construction joints. It is best to just test your home for radon.

Water needs to be tested for radon as well.

So this isn’t technically a radon myth. Radon can be present in water. However, the risk is MUCH lower than breathing it in through the air. It is much more important to test for radon in your air than water.

I’ve lived here for 10 years, doesn’t make a difference to test now.

No matter how long you’ve lived in your home, you will reduce your risk of contracting lung cancer when you reduce your radon levels. Even if you’ve already been exposed for awhile.

Radon Myths – If you have questions or want to test your home for radon, contact the experts at 801-871-0715.