USEFUL RESOURCES

Minimize Risks With Vermiculite Insulation Removal

Vermiculite insulation removal helps reduce the risk of asbestos-related illnesses. Vermiculite is a naturally occurring mineral that is used in construction, insulation and gardening products. In its uncontaminated form, vermiculite is not harmful. Health Canada only raised an alert when the ore came into contact with asbestos (a known carcinogen) in the Libby mines in Montana (closed in 1990) which supplied many US cities and even Canada.

The best way to minimize your risk of asbestos exposure is to avoid disturbing vermiculite-based insulation in any way. If vermiculite-based insulation is contained and not exposed to the home or interior environment, it poses little risk. Damaged insulation on the other hand can cause asbestos fibres to be released into the air and be breathed in by you.

If you suspect that you have vermiculite-based insulation in your attic, take these precautionary steps recommended by Health Canada.

  • Do not allow children to play in an attic with open areas of vermiculite-based insulation and inform anyone working in the attic about the possible presence of asbestos.
  • Do not use the attic for storage if retrieving items from it may disturb the insulation.
  • If you must go into the attic, walk on boards in order to minimize disturbance of the insulation and use an appropriate respirator mask. Do not remain in the attic any longer than is necessary.
  • Don’t use common dust masks in the area as they are not effective against asbestos fibres.
  • Consult professionals about asbestos removal before you renovate or remodel—it must be done in a manner that will not disturb the vermiculite.
  • Seal all cracks and holes in the ceilings of the rooms below the insulation (for example, apply caulking around light fixtures and the attic hatch) to prevent insulation sifting through.
  • Seal all cracks and holes in the wall if you suspect you have vermiculite-based insulation in your walls. For example, apply caulking around window and door frames, along baseboards and around electrical outlets.
  • Get trained and qualified professionals for vermiculite insulation removal. NEVER attempt to remove the insulation yourself.

Not all vermiculite insulation contains asbestos. Furthermore, not all insulation with asbestos needs to be removed. Only certified asbestos testing can confirm whether or not you have a problem, and if vermiculite removal is necessary.

Asbestos Environmental Of Canada (AEOC) offers certified asbestos testing services. Based on our findings, we can ask our experienced team to quickly and safely remove this health hazard from your property.

Call Asbestos Environmental Of Canada at 416-985-5025 to discuss vermiculite insulation removal services today.

 

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