Boise, Idaho Vermiculite Remediation
Where could I expect to encounter vermiculite in everyday life? i) Vermiculite was widely used as loose fill insulation especially in attics in domestic residences from the early 1940’s onwards. However, over the last two to three decades its use in domestic housing has declined and has usually been replaced by manmade mineral fibers such as rock wool and glass fibre (fiberglass).
- Leave vermiculite insulation undisturbed in your attic or in your walls. Do not store boxes or other items in your attic if it contains vermiculite insulation.
- Do not allow children to play in an attic with vermiculite insulation. Do not attempt to remove the insulation yourself.
- Hire a professional asbestos contractor if you plan to remodel or conduct renovations that would disturb the vermiculite in your attic or walls to make sure the material is safely handled and/or removed.
If your home in North America was insulated with vermiculite between the early 1920’s and 1991, it is reasonable to assume that the vermiculite insulation may have originated from the Libby mine. Treat this material as if it contained asbestos by not disturbing it, or by using a trained professional if it needs to be removed. If in doubt, you can hire a trained professional to test your attic for asbestos.