Should vermiculite insulation be removed?

Should vermiculite insulation be removed?

The EPA recommends that vermiculite insulation be left undisturbed. Airborne asbestos fibers present a health risk through inhalation, so the first step is to not disturb the material, which could release fibers into the air. If you disturb the insulation, you may inhale some asbestos fibers.

Can vermiculite be contaminated?

If you have vermiculite insulation in your home, you should assume this material may be contaminated with asbestos and be aware of steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from exposure to asbestos.

Can you cover up vermiculite insulation?

Don’t be fooled – it is not possible to encapsulate vermiculite by covering it with another loose blown insulation. The fact is once this additional insulation has come in contact with vermiculite insulation it must now also be considered contaminated.

Does wearing a mask help with asbestos?

Not made to stop asbestos A dust mask is great at what it’s supposed to do, which is blocking normal dust. However, it is not enough to stop asbestos particles. Wearing a simple mask from Lowe’s or Home Depot isn’t going to give you the protection you need or ensure that you don’t develop mesothelioma.

What are the rules for vermiculite insulation?

1 Leave vermiculite insulation undisturbed in your attic or in your walls. 2 Do not store boxes or other items in your attic if it contains vermiculite insulation. 3 Do not allow children to play in an attic with vermiculite insulation. 4 Do not attempt to remove the insulation yourself.

Is there asbestos in vermiculite insulation?

Concerns about Asbestos-contaminated Vermiculite Insulation. There was also a deposit of asbestos at that mine, so the vermiculite from Libby was contaminated with asbestos. Vermiculite from Libby was used in the majority of vermiculite insulation in the United States and was often sold under the brand name Zonolite.

How much does vermiculite expand when heated?

When heated to a high temperature, flakes of vermiculite expand as much as 8-30 times their original size. The expanded vermiculite is a light-weight, fire-resistant, and odorless material and has been used in numerous products, including insulation for attics and walls.

What is vermiculite insulating cement?

Classed as a non-combustible material for the purpose of the building regulations, Vermiculite Insulating Cement is ideal for any area where a low density, high insulation and non-combustible material is required. It is especially useful for filling the space between firebacks and fireplaces or behind Victorian Type cast-iron fireplaces.