Vermiculite is a mineral used in many commercial and consumer products including insulation. Vermiculite itself has not been shown to pose health problems. However, some vermiculite insulation can contain asbestos fibres.
Of concern is Zonolite, a product made from vermiculite which was used in many Canadian homes. The vermiculite insulation sold in Canada under the name of Zonolite was extracted from the Libby Mine in Montana, USA. This mine h ad a natural deposit of asbestos which resulted in the vermiculite being contaminated with asbestos. Vermiculite produced by the Libby Mine has not been on the market in Canada for more than 10 years. Not all vermiculite sold in Canada before 1990 contains asbestos fibres. However, if you believe that your home may contain vermiculite insulation, it is reasonable to assume that it may be contaminated with asbestos. Asbestos can cause health problems when inhaled into the lungs. Exposure to asbestos fibres has been associated with asbestosis, mesothelioma and lung cancer.
The best way to minimize asbestos exposure from vermiculite is to avoid removing or disturbing the insulation. The following precautions will prevent releasing asbestos fibres into the air:
- Do not use the attic for storage.
- You and your children should not go to the attic.
- If you plan to renovate, hire a professional trained and certified to handle asbestos.
- You should never attempt to remove the insulation yourself.
- Seal all cracks and holes in the ceilings to prevent insulation to sift through.
This article is thanks to: www.homeinspectionmontreal.com
