Vermiculite Insulation

Vermiculite insulation has a storied history, tracing back to its discovery in the early 19th century. The mineral vermiculite, a hydrated laminar magnesium-aluminum-iron silicate, was first in 1824. However, its use as an insulating material didn't gain traction until the early 20th century. Commercial mining began in the 1920s, where a large deposit of high-quality vermiculite was found. Its unique properties—lightweight, fire-resistant, and excellent at thermal insulation—made it an attractive choice for use in construction, particularly for insulating attics and walls. By the mid-20th century, vermiculite insulation had become widespread in North America. However, it was discovered that much of the vermiculite was contaminated with asbestos, a hazardous material. This led to health concerns and a decline in its use. Despite this, vermiculite insulation remains in many older homes today, prompting ongoing efforts for safe removal and management due to the asbestos risk.

Vermiculite insulation typically appears as lightweight, granulated, or pebble-like material. It ranges in color from golden brown to silvery gray, often with a shiny or metallic sheen. The granules are irregular in shape and size, resembling small, coarse flakes or nuggets, similar to crushed mica or expanded popcorn. When installed, vermiculite insulation usually fills spaces loosely, creating a textured and uneven surface. It's often found in attics or wall cavities, where it has been poured in between joists or studs. The material is easily recognizable by its distinctive layered, flaky structure and its light, airy feel when handled. 

Vermiculite insulation removal is among the most costly forms of asbestos removal. The primary expense in such projects is labor. The confined and restrictive conditions typical of attic spaces, combined with the heightened safety risks associated with asbestos handling, necessitate that workers receive premium compensation. Additionally, these professionals must undergo extensive training and obtain specialized certifications to ensure safe and effective removal. Pricing can fluctuate based on various project-specific conditions, such as site access and seasonality. For instance, during summer, the combination of high temperatures and the requirement to wear full hazmat suits and Powered Air-Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) can necessitate shorter, repeated shifts for workers to mitigate temperature-related health risks. Extending the timeline of the project and increasing labor costs. Another significant cost associated with this type of project is disposal. Asbestos cannot be disposed of in regular landfills and requires special certifications, licenses, and permits for transportation and disposal. Apogee Environmental Solutions does not handle the disposal of this waste material directly; instead, we subcontract this task to larger companies in Ottawa equipped for such operations. Additional costs include specialized abatement equipment, advanced safety gear, site preparation and protection, meticulous planning, and comprehensive insurance.  For an exact quote on your vermiculite removal, please fill out our contact form or give us a call. This will allow us to examine the project thoroughly and determine precise pricing.