What Is Vermiculite?
Vermiculite is a naturally occurring mineral that is seen worldwide. It was commonly used in attic insulation until 1990. It is still common to be used in potting soils. This mineral has the ability to expand when heated quickly to high temperatures. This quality of rapid expansion leaves a very low density material which can both absorb water, and act as an insulator.
Who Installed Vermiculite?
Generally speaking new builders weren’t using vermiculite. Homeowners were buying large bags of the material and simply dumping the bags onto the attic floor in their homes. Some even went as far as pouring the material into the walls of their homes for insulation. Because of its low cost it was very common and the houses built before 1990 might very well have vermiculite in them.
When Was Vermiculite Most Popular?
Starting in about the 1920’s vermiculite became a popular material in various industries. The baby boom increased the demand for homes and during the 1950’s vermiculite was a very popular insulation choice. During the energy crisis of the 1970’s it was also widely used. In fact CHIP programs afforded grants to install vermiculite to reduce energy costs.
Why Is Vermiculite Insulation Dangerous?
While vermiculite itself isn’t inherently dangerous the mine where the majority of it was mined contained another mineral. The mine that supplied nearly the whole world’s vermiculite supply in Libby, Montana also contained tremolite. Tremolite is a type of asbestos, which just about everyone now knows is dangerous. When the vermiculite was mined it carried with it portions of this asbestos.
Is There A Health Risk With Vermiculite?
While vermiculite itself isn’t the problem, the levels of termolite that was mined with the vermiculite can cause mesothelioma. The asbestos minerals have a tendency to divide and separate into microscopic airborne fibers. These fibers are easily inhaled, potentially not even being noticed. As with many types of dangerous materials the health effects are tied to duration of exposure. If proper respirators are worn and the areas are simply avoided the risks are not as high.
What Do I Do If I Think I have Vermiculite?
First and foremost you leave it alone. Don’t store anything in your attic or go up there and disturb the material. When the material is moved, swept, or disturbed the microscopic particles float into the air and can be breathed into the lungs. You can have the material tested by a private lab to verify if in fact there is asbestos in your attic. If you have can lighting that opens up holes into the attic it is very important to get this testing done.
If in fact you do have this dangerous attic insulation material it is important that you get qualified insulation removal technicians to do the job for you. They will have the correct training and safety equipment to get the job done and leave you home safer.
Phoenix Valley Insulation Removal
Older types of insulation can be dangerous to have in your home. They pose a respirator risk and prevent the use of space. If you are a resident in the Phoenix area and have either vermiculite insulation, or insulation that is either simply old and ineffective or has been damaged by rodents or water damage Barrier Insulation has you covered. We professionally remove old insulation, safely, to protect you and your family. Give us a call today if you have need of insulation removal services.