Vermiculite Insulation In Attic

Vermiculite insulation between floor joists in attic vermiculite is a popular insulation material but much of the vermiculite used in the u s.

Vermiculite insulation in attic.

So if you have vermiculite insulation look into this. Vermiculite attic insulation is a pebble like pour in product and is usually light brown gray or gold in color. Vermiculite was a common attic insulation product sold from the late 1920s to the early 1990s. Unfortunately almost all vermiculite insulation contains asbestos and is unsafe when disturbed.

That s good news because most zonolite a type of vermiculite insulation falls into that category. One common brand was called zonolite. It could be purchased locally and could be installed by contractor or homeowner. Founded in 1919 the zonolite company was acquired by w r.

Look at the photos on this website and then look at the insulation without disturbing it. The zonolite attic insulation trust was established in 2014 to help homeowners with the cost of removing zonolite attic insulation from their homes. The zonolite attic insulation trust zai trust was created to help educate the public about the possible health effects of asbestos containing vermiculite and to provide partial reimbursement for zai removal to qualified claimants. As long as this kind of vermiculite based insulation remains undisturbed behind intact walls or in attic spaces and does not become airborne it should not be a concern.

The epa says that vermiculite insulation which is the pebbly stuff found in attics of many older homes is only risky if it contains more than one percent asbestos. However some vermiculite insulation contained asbestos fibres which can cause problems if inhaled. The mine was closed in 1990. According to a 1985 estimate made by the environmental protection agency epa about 940 000 american homes were insulated with zonolite.

Vermiculite from the libby mine in montana usa is known to contain high levels of amphibolic asbestos. During the 20th century was contaminated with asbestos. But in some cases you may be able to leave the material in place with proper. Vermiculite insulation is a pebble like pour in product and is usually gray brown or silver gold in color.

Vermiculite itself has not been shown to be a health problem. In order to be eligible for reimbursement a claimant must be able to show. It may have shiny flakes and or small accordion like pieces see photos above. The trust reimburses homeowners for 55 percent of their removal and reinsulation costs with a maximum payout per owner of 4 125.

That vermiculite is the zonolite brand. Removal of vermiculite insulation can be costly and complicated. You can also check for markings on the material or its packaging. Vermiculite insulation was sold in bags to builders and homeowners under the zonolite brand name.

The following photographs show typical vermiculite insulation.