Vermiculite is a common attic insulation that contains small amounts of asbestos fibers. The material is extremely dangerous only when disturbed. Only professionals should inspect, test, and work with vermiculite.
There are warnings from The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to homeowners who may have Zonolite or other Vermiculite Attic Insulations to seek professional advice.
Zonolite Insulation was a do-it-yourself insulation material manufactured and sold between 1963 and 1984. It is brownish-silver and comes in accordion shaped chips. It is very likely this material contains asbestos, which is harmful when disturbed.
Approximately 940,000 U.S. homes contain this type of insulation. Asbestos should only be removed by trained professionals! If you think your home may contain this type of insulation, contact Healthy Homes for help.
See our Asbestos page to read more about the devastating affects of asbestos exposure to your family.
DO NOT DISTURB IT! Any disturbance has the potential to release asbestos fibers in the air. Asbestos is a mineral fiber that has been used in a variety of household and building materials. It has been shown to cause lung and stomach cancer in people exposed to its microscopic fibers. When asbestos containing materials, such as vermiculite insulation are disturbed (i.e. remodeling, demolishing, or building a home), the fibers are easily inhaled and ingested. Once inhaled, the tiny fibers stay lodged inside your body tissue, increasing your chance of developing serious illnesses. If you plan on remodeling or have had roof damage, and have seen this Vermiculite Insulation in your attic or walls, hire a trained and certified professional to evaluate the environmental impact. Contact Healthy Homes today to have your house inspected for vermiculite.