Vermiculite and Asbestos Insulation

Over the years, a wide range of materials have actually been utilized to insulate homes and other structures. Sawdust, corn cobs and straw are some naturally-occurring materials that have been used as insulation in the past. Vermiculite insulation likewise belongs in this category.

Vermiculite is a mineral that is light and shiny, like mica, with a comparable half-cracked texture. When heated to higher temperatures, vermiculite broadens and gains the qualities that make it an effective insulator– a light-weight, permeable, fireproof product. Pieces of vermiculite insulation could be around an inch long, however the majority of are smaller sized pieces and particles.

Although vermiculite insulation is still available today, it’s made use of more for specialized applications instead compared to for residence insulation. Older homes might still contain vermiculite insulation, which looks like cat litter in appearance.

Asbestos Combined In With Vermiculite

Many vermiculite insulation made use of in the UNITED STATE originated from a single mine in Montana where asbestos was additionally mined. As a result, it’s most likely that old vermiculite insulation may include some asbestos fibers. If you locate old vermiculite insulation in your house, follow these security treatments:.

• Don’t disturb the vermiculite. Breathing in asbestos fibers can cause serious breathing ailments. Leaving the product uninterrupted is the most effective method to make sure that asbestos fibers do not take off. Don’t enable kids to mess around vermiculite insulation.
• Do not attempt to relocate or remove the vermiculite yourself.
• New insulation can be installed atop aged vermiculite insulation, but the insulation specialist need to make certain not to relocate or otherwise disrupt the vermiculite.
• If you have to move or eliminate aged vermiculite insulation because of renovating or various other plans, employ an asbestos reduction contractor to do the task.