5 Shocking Myths About Radon That Could Cost You Your Life

When it comes to radon, what you do not know really can hurt you. There is a surprising amount of misinformation out there, and believing the wrong thing can leave your family exposed to a serious, cancer-causing gas. Let us clear the air and bust the five most dangerous radon myths.

Myth 1: "My home is new, so it cannot have radon."

New construction is not immune. In fact, modern homes are built to be tightly sealed for energy efficiency, which can actually trap radon inside more effectively than older, draftier homes. Radon depends on the soil beneath your home, not the age of the structure. Every home in Denver should be tested regardless of when it was built.

Myth 2: "My neighbor tested fine, so I am fine too."

Radon levels can vary dramatically from one house to the next, even on the same street. Differences in foundation construction, soil composition, and how the home is sealed all affect the result. The only way to know your home is safe is to test your home specifically.

Myth 3: "Radon is not really that dangerous."

Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer overall and the leading cause among non-smokers. The EPA estimates it is responsible for roughly 21,000 lung cancer deaths in the United States every year. That is not a scare tactic; it is a documented public-health reality.

Radon causes more deaths each year than drunk driving. It deserves to be taken just as seriously.

Myth 4: "Mitigation is expensive and complicated."

A radon mitigation system is one of the most affordable and least disruptive home upgrades you can make. Most systems are installed in a single 3 to 4 hour visit, cost less than many appliances, and quietly run in the background for decades. Compared to the cost of treating lung cancer, it is a bargain.

Myth 5: "If I have a system, I never have to think about radon again."

A mitigation system is highly effective, but it is not entirely set-and-forget. You should glance at the system manometer periodically and re-test your home every couple of years to confirm it is still performing. The good news is that maintenance is minimal and takes just a few seconds.

• Every home should be tested, new or old.
• Your neighbor’s results do not apply to your home.
• Radon is a leading cause of lung cancer, not a minor concern.
• Mitigation is fast, affordable, and long-lasting.
• A quick periodic check keeps your system working.

Do not let a myth put your family at risk. If you have not tested your Denver home, or it has been a few years, schedule a free in-person estimate with Custom Radon and get a complimentary test kit today.