The Relationship Between Vermiculite & Asbestos: What To Know

Every new homeowner at some point must reckon with whether their new house may have toxic and harmful pollutants used in its construction. For many issues, it’s an easy fix to get these particulates out of the house and into the proper disposal unit. However, many new homeowners are uneducated on potentially harmful pollutants such as asbestos or vermiculite and where they may appear within your house’s construction. Read on to learn more about the relationship between vermiculite and asbestos.

What Is Vermiculite?

Vermiculite, simply described, is a naturally occurring compound that resembles another mineral known as mica. In its purest state, it takes the form of an odorless and colorless material that is sterile and nontoxic. However, when vermiculite is utilized in house construction, it is often contaminated with asbestos. In the past, this substance was treated as a harmless and useful material in the building materials However, recent science has proven that using vermiculite can lead to asbestos exposure, which causes a variety of cancers over time.

How Do I Know If My Home Uses Vermiculite?

In many cases, it can be hard for a new owner homeowner who doesn't have a complete history of the house to tell whether or not there's vermiculite in the home. It is often found during a Mass Save audit or by a home inspection professional. You can always call in an asbestos or vermiculite removal team to check, if you’re not sure, whether harmful materials are present.

Why Is Asbestos Exposure Bad for You?

It's no secret that asbestos exposure is harmful, but even so, many people are unaware to what extent. Exposure to asbestos in demolition has been proven to cause cancer. Unfortunately, it’s extremely hard to tell whether or not you have been exposed to it until a certain amount of time has passed. This, compounded with the fact that asbestos fibers are extremely small and hard to notice, makes it very difficult to tell whether or not you have been exposed. Overtime, asbestos exposure could lead to lung cancer and other respiratory issues.

We know that it is hard to understand the relationship between vermiculite and asbestos, which is why we hope you have found our article helpful to you. If you think you have toxic materials such as asbestos in your house, be sure to reach out to Air Safe today, as we provide a variety of removal services to fit your needs.