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Vermiculite sampling and analysis
Vermiculite sampling and analysis
Vermiculite is often used as insulation in attics and walls. We test vermiculite for the presence of asbestos, which is often associated with this material. Our experts can help you assess the risks and take appropriate measures to protect your health.
If your home was built or renovated before the 1990s, it's difficult to guess which insulation method you chose as there were so many options: fiberglass batt, blown cellulose, spray urethane or even vermiculite. This last choice, popular between the 1940s and 1980s, can prove problematic depending on its origin, because it may contain amphibolic asbestos fibers. And you, could you tell which insulating product is found in your home? Read our column and learn more about vermiculite and see how to recognize it.
Vermiculite comes in the form of small granules that vary in color from silver-gold to gray-brown similar to mica (see photo above). If your home was built before the 1990s, it may be insulated with vermiculite which may contain amphibolic asbestos fibers. A visit to the attic will allow you to determine the nature of the insulating product used in your home. If you find vermiculite there, you will need to move on to the next step which is to determine whether or not it contains amphibolic asbestos.
Vermiculite from the Libby Mine in Montana is known to contain high levels of amphibolic asbestos. Mined between 1920 and 1990, this vermiculite insulation was sold primarily, but not exclusively, under the Zonolite® Attic Insulation brand. In fact, in its good years, the Libby mine accounted for more than 70% of the world's vermiculite production. Products from this mine have been used very little since the mid-1980s and have not been available for a good forty years.
Is the presence of Zonolite a hidden defect?
Quebec courts have decided that asbestos does not constitute a hidden defect. It is therefore the buyer's duty to inform the building inspector that he wants his opinion on this subject. To arrive at this decision, the judges referred to the opinion of Health Canada that the presence of Zonolite insulation does not cause any risk if it is not touched. The notion of hidden defect therefore serves to guarantee that the dwelling can be used for its existing use, but not that its transformation can be carried out without risk.
Safety measures for renovations
It is not obligatory to remove vermiculite if it is not disturbed because it does not present a danger. If, however, its removal is required, it is preferable and advisable to call on a specialized company for its removal. These companies are often equipped with a giant vacuum cleaner that will direct the vermiculite insulation into a waterproof bag, located in a trailer outside, where the air comes out filtered. This method is among others that exist.
When there is a lot of asbestos, and depending on the form it takes, the workers carrying out the work must wear disposable overalls, as well as masks that cover the entire face. Every time they leave a construction site, they must pass through a series of compartments where they undress and shower. Obviously, the measurements mainly depend on the quantity of vermiculite present.
In the case of the presence of vermiculite as insulation behind the walls, if you do not take all the necessary precautions, it is better not to engage in a residential renovation. The temptation is strong to carry out the work yourself. It must be recognized that the risks are high. If an owner does not wish to use the services of a specialized company, wearing appropriate clothing and a respiratory mask is an obligation to respect for health reasons.
How can we help you?
If you have any doubt as to the nature of your insulation or if you have vermiculite in the attic and wish to proceed with its analysis, we invite you to contact us. Our inspectors are there to take samples for you.
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