U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

DO-IT-YOURSELFERS
What to Do if You Find Vermiculite or Asbestos
In or Around Your Home or Business

Spring 2007

Vermiculite in and near Homes and Businesses

Vermiculite was used in a variety of forms for decades in homes as a soil additive, lightweight aggregate for concrete, and attic insulation, among other things.

If vermiculite is present, it might contain a very toxic form of asbestos from a vermiculite mine in Libby, Montana. Exposure to Libby Asbestos could lead to such serious diseases as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and other pleural maladies.

Asbestos-containing vermiculite might be found in walls, home foundations, attics, crawl spaces, and other relatively inaccessible areas. It also might be found in yards and gardens.

Some encounters with vermiculite will be small in volume, such as a handful, and might include:

minor renovations, such as removing old carpets, installing ceiling fans, or removing wall outlets

minor landscaping, like rototilling or mowing

There may be times when a large pocket of vermiculite is discovered, for example:

intrusive digging

major renovations - taking down walls, putting in windows, etc.

building fires - fire-fighting and subsequent cleanup