Top Most Common Myths About Radon Testing

What Are Common Radon Testing Myths

Below are the facts vs myths about radon testing, everything you need to know about this naturally occurring radioactive gas:

Myth #1: “My home is new, so I don’t need radon testing.”

Fact: Radon doesn’t care how old your house is.

It seeps up from the soil beneath your home and enters through cracks in the foundation, sump pumps, crawl spaces, and even tiny gaps you can’t see. Therefore, brand-new homes can also have higher radon levels, just like older homes.

Myth #2: “Radon isn’t a problem in my area.”

Fact: Radon has been found in all 50 states.

Although some areas are considered high-risk zones, radon can and does occur anywhere. Local geology, soil composition, and even the way your foundation interacts with the ground can influence radon levels.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that 1 in 15 homes in the U.S. have radon levels above the recommended safety limit. This means you can’t assume that your area is safe.

Myth #3: “If my neighbor tested and was fine, I don’t need to test.”

Fact: Radon levels vary house by house.

Two homes right next door to each other can have completely different radon levels because radon doesn’t spread as air pollution. It seeps up from the ground in pockets, and the way your foundation interacts with those pockets makes all the difference.

So your neighbors’ results have nothing to do with yours. The only way to know your home’s radon level is to test it.

Myth #4: “Radon problems are too expensive to fix.”

Fact: Mitigation is often more affordable than you think.

Hearing that you have a radon problem can feel overwhelming, but here’s the good news: solutions are widely available and often cost less than major home repairs. In most cases, a standard radon mitigation system costs about the same as replacing a water heater.

The long-term benefits in the form of protection of your health and mental peace are priceless compared to anything else.

Myth #5: “If I don’t spend much time in the basement, I am safe.”

Fact: Radon spreads throughout the home.

Yes, radon often enters through the basements and crawlspaces first. But once it gets aside, it doesn’t stay put. It mixes with the air in your living spaces, bathrooms, and kitchens.

Even if you rarely go downstairs, your family can still be breathing in elevated radon levels upstairs every day.

Myth #6: “Radon only matters if I’m selling my house.”

Fact: Radon testing matters all the time.

Indeed, real estate transactions often trigger radon testing. But waiting until you sell misses the bigger picture. Radon affects your health while you are living in the home.

The primary purpose of a radon test is to protect yourself and your family. If you avoid it, there can be unpleasant surprises in the future. Think of it as an investment in both safety and property.

Why Radon Testing Myths Stick Around

Radon isn’t visible, so it’s easy for misinformation to spread. Unlike mold or water leaks, you can’t point to a stain on the wall or smell to know there’s a problem. That’s why education is so important. Knowing the facts vs myths about radon testing helps homeowners make more informed and safer decisions.

Don’t Rely On Myths, It’s About Your Safety

Radon doesn’t care about your home’s age, your zip code, or what your neighbor’s results were. The only way to determine your risk is to undergo testing. Cut through the noise of radon testing myths and protect your health. Keep your property safe by getting a professional radon test from GreenWorks Inspections.

Book your inspection today and deal with the facts. It’s your responsibility to make your place safe for a healthy life.