Vermiculite decontamination

Vermiculite is a silver-gold to gray-brown mineral that is flat and shiny in its natural state. When heated to about 1000°C, it swells, creating air pockets. This enlarged shape and the fact that vermiculite does not burn make the material suitable for use as insulation.

Does any vermiculitis cause health problems?

Vermiculite itself has not been shown to cause a health problem. However, some vermiculite insulation containsasbestosfibers, which can be problematic if inhaled. As long as this type of vermiculite-based insulation remains untouched behind intact walls or in attics and does not peel off, it should not be a cause for concern.

One of the main concerns was zonolite insulation® Attic. In fact, this insulator was sold in Canada under the name Zonolite® and was extracted from the Libby mine in Montana, USA. This mine contained a natural deposit of asbestos, which resulted in the contamination of vermiculite with asbestos.

However, vermiculite produced by the Libby mine has not been on the Canadian market for more than 10 years. All vermiculite sold in Canada before 1990 does not contain asbestos fibres. However, if you think your home has vermiculite, it is reasonable to assume that it may be contaminated with asbestos. If this is the case and you plan to renovate or remove the insulation, it is highly recommended to contact a qualified professional.

Asbestos can cause health problems when inhaled into the lungs. Breathing in very small airborne asbestos fibers has been linked to diseases such as asbestosis, mesothelioma and lung cancer.

The best way to minimize exposure to asbestos from vermiculite is to avoid removing or moving insulation when possible. By moving the vermiculite, the fibers become airborne. The following precautions prevent the release of asbestos fibres into the air:

Vermiculite decontamination of the Zonolite vermiculite brand is necessary because it contains a very dangerous form of asbestos that can cause serious and irreversible disease. Although its presence does not automatically pose a risk, the government recommends using experienced Zonolite decontamination professionals to facilitate removal, especially if you are considering renovations (even small projects such as plastering walls/ceilings).

Due to the high health risks involved, it is strongly recommended not to proceed with the removal and decontamination of vermiculite if you are not an expert. In addition, there may be a risk of the contamination spreading, which could result in additional decontamination costs. Instead, it is advisable not to touch the contaminated vermiculite until a professional can effectively handle the situation.

If you discover vermiculite in your home (usually in the attic, but also in walls and ceilings), don’t panic! Remember that it is best to have it tested since it may contain asbestos. However, also note that not all worms contain asbestos. So don’t just rely on the appearance or year of installation to judge whether or not asbestos is present!

Due to the high health risks involved, it is strongly recommended not to proceed with the removal and decontamination of vermiculite if you are not an expert. In addition, there may be a risk of the contamination spreading, which could result in additional decontamination costs. Instead, it is advisable not to touch the contaminated vermiculite until a professional can effectively handle the situation.

If you discover vermiculite in your home (usually in the attic, but also in walls and ceilings), don’t panic! Remember that it is best to have it tested since it may contain asbestos. However, also note that not all worms contain asbestos. So don’t just rely on the appearance or year of installation to judge whether or not asbestos is present!