Radon myths and facts

Radon attracts a lot of half-truths. Here are the common ones, checked against EPA guidance.

“Only old or drafty houses have radon.”

False. EPA says any home can have a radon problem: new or old, well-sealed or drafty, with or without a basement. Newer, tighter homes can even hold radon in more effectively. The soil under the house and the pressure difference that draws soil gas inside matter more than age.

“My neighbor tested low, so I’m fine.”

Not necessarily. Radon levels can vary sharply between neighboring homes because of differences in soil, foundation, and ventilation. Your test is the only reliable answer.

“My county is Zone 3, so I don’t need to test.”

False. EPA says its zone map should not be used to decide whether a home needs testing, and notes that elevated homes exist in Zone 2 and Zone 3 counties. See the zone map explained.

“Radon only matters in the basement.”

Partly true. Levels are usually highest on the lowest level, which is why EPA recommends testing the lowest lived-in level. But radon can move through a house, and homes without basements can have high levels too.

“Radon causes headaches or breathing problems I would notice.”

False. EPA identifies lung cancer as the health effect of radon, developing over years. There are no immediate symptoms to warn you, which is why testing matters. See radon health risks.

“Granite countertops are a major radon source.”

Not shown by current data. EPA says any granite can contain some uranium and may contribute variably to indoor radon, but that existing data are insufficient to conclude that the types of granite commonly used in countertops significantly increase indoor radon levels. Soil gas is the usual source. If you are concerned, test your home’s air; that measures radon from every source.

“Fixing radon costs a fortune.”

Usually false. EPA says most homes can be fixed for about the same cost as other common home repairs, and systems can lower levels by up to 99 percent. See how mitigation works.

“Sealing cracks will solve it.”

Rarely on its own. Sealing helps a mitigation system work better, but EPA does not recommend sealing alone as a reliable way to reduce radon.

“Test the lot before you build.”

Not recommended. EPA says soil tests are not reliable predictors of indoor radon in the finished house. Build radon-resistant, then test the home. See radon-resistant new construction.

The one fact that matters

Testing is cheap and easy. Start with our testing guide.