Asbestos insulation was used for many years as home insulation, (as vermiculite in an attic space), pipe wrap, (usually found in homes with a boiler heat system), in plaster walls and in certain floor tiles, (usually 8" x 8" or 9" x 9" in size). It was installed in thousands of homes in southern and central Ontario, in attics, walls, floor tile and plaster. For years it was believed to be a safe and harmless product. However, Health Canada has recently determined that level of asbestos is not safe in a home. In fact, several years ago researchers discovered that about 60% to 70% of some of the vermiculite installed in homes contained asbestos.

Where does Vermiculite come from?

Vermiculite was mined from the Libby Mine in Montana and from several mines in South Africa. It is the vermiculite that came from the Libby Mine that contains harmful asbestos fibers. There are two distinct types of Vermiculite insulation, it may resemble expanded multi coloured "popcorn" or "chopped brown rice". The smaller chopped brown rice style is typically from the Libby mine and may be contaminated with asbestos. However, the only way to be sure is to have a sample analyzed at an approved laboratory.

Many homeowners are concerned about the potential dangers of vermiculite insulation and the risk to their family. The Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation, CMHC recommends that the vermiculite insulation be removed and many people simply do not like the idea of "Asbestos" in their homes.

Asbestos fibers may be disturbed during renovations, electrical projects, or entry into the attic. Air leakage from the attic into the occupied areas of the home may also allow asbestos fibers into the home. It is very difficult to completely seal all attic penetrations. Air leakage around the attic trap-door, wiring, chimneys, exhaust pipes, vent pipes and penetrations through the top plate of the wall can all allow asbestos fibers to enter the occupied area of the home.