Myths and Facts about RADON
MYTH: A home with high levels of radon can't be fixed.
FACT: There are often simple solutions to radon problems. Many Canadian homeowners have already fixed radon problems in their homes. In fact, most homes can be fixed for about the same cost as other common home repairs. It’s important to hire a contractor who specializes in radon mitigation.
MYTH: Radon testing is difficult and expensive.
FACT: Radon testing is easy. You can test your home yourself or hire a qualified radon testing company. Either option takes only a small amount of time and effort.
MYTH: My house is new and I have a finished basement. I don’t need to test for radon.
FACT: Radon can be a problem in homes of all types: old homes, new homes, drafty homes, homes with finished basements, and homes without basements. Local geology, construction materials, and how the home was built can all affect radon levels in homes. The only way to know for sure if radon is a problem in your home is to test.
MYTH: Radon is only a problem in certain parts of the country.
FACT: High radon levels have been found in every province. Radon problems do vary from area to area, but the only way to know your home’s radon level is to test for it.
MYTH: My next door neighbor just did a radon test and the results were fine. Do I still need to test my house?
FACT: Yes! Radon levels can vary greatly from one home to another. Again, the only way to know if your home has a radon problem is to test it.
MYTH: It will be difficult to sell my home if I discover a radon problem.
FACT: As long as you fix the radon problem, you should not have any difficulties. The added protection and peace of mind that comes from fixing a radon problem may actually be a good selling point.
MYTH: I've lived in my home many years. It just doesn't make sense for me to take action now.
FACT: You will reduce your risk of lung cancer when you reduce radon levels in your home -- even if you've lived with a radon problem for a long time.