Removing Attic Vermiculite is a major step toward creating a modern and efficient home in Calgary. We understand that many older houses have insulation that no longer keeps the heat inside. Our team observes that vermiculite often contains dangerous mineral fibres from contaminated mines in the past. Because these fibres are so small, they can fall through light fixtures and into your rooms. We want to help you clear out this old material so you can add better insulation. Consequently, your home will stay warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer months. Furthermore, removing the hazard increases your property value and makes future repairs much safer. We believe that a clean attic is the foundation of a well-maintained house for every family.
Understanding the Risks of Old Insulation
Vermiculite looks like small, shiny pebbles that are usually grey, gold, or brown in colour. We find that this material was popular because it is very lightweight and fire-resistant. However, the mineral fibres hidden inside can be released if you move the pebbles. Consequently, even a small breeze in the attic can make the air dangerous to breathe. You should never go into your attic if you see this pebble-like material on the floor. Furthermore, the dust can settle on your storage boxes and holiday decorations over many years. Our team uses specialized equipment to remove the material without spreading the dust downstairs. We prioritize keeping your living areas completely separate from the attic work zone.
Improving Your Home’s Thermal Performance
Old vermiculite has a very low R-value compared to modern insulation products like fibreglass or spray foam. We see that heat escapes through the old pebbles very easily during our cold Alberta winters. Consequently, your furnace has to work much harder to keep your family warm and comfortable. Furthermore, this leads to higher energy bills and more wear on your heating system every year. By removing the old material, we create space for thick layers of high-quality modern insulation. This keeps the heat where it belongs and saves you money on your monthly utilities. Moreover, modern insulation is better at blocking outside noises from the street or the wind.
The Professional Removal Process Explained
We use a high-powered vacuum system to pull the old insulation directly out of your house. We find that this is the cleanest way to handle hazardous materials without making a mess. Our team sets up a sealed “negative air” environment to ensure no dust escapes the attic hatch. Furthermore, we wear specialized suits and respirators to stay safe while we work in the tight space. We also seal any gaps in the attic floor to prevent air leaks into your home. Consequently, the attic is left perfectly clean and ready for your new insulation to be installed. Our process is designed to be fast and non-disruptive for your daily life at home.
Why You Should Never Do This Yourself
Attempting to shovel vermiculite into bags is extremely dangerous for your health and your home’s safety. We observe that DIY removal always leads to massive contamination of the bedrooms and hallways below. Consequently, the cost of cleaning your house after a mistake is much higher than professional removal. Furthermore, you cannot dispose of hazardous waste in your regular trash bin or at the local dump. We are the Best Abatement & Remediation Company in Calgary for handling dangerous attic materials correctly. We ensure that every piece of debris is disposed of at a licensed hazardous waste facility. Please Contact Us to learn more about our safe attic cleaning services today.
FAQ
What is vermiculite made of?
It is a natural mineral that expands when heated to look like small pebbles or accordion shapes. Most of it in Canada came from a mine with natural asbestos deposits.
Can I just put new insulation over it?
You can, but the dangerous material stays in your home and remains a risk for future workers. It also makes your home harder to sell in the future.
How do I know if my attic is safe?
You should look through the hatch but do not step inside if you see pebbles. Call a professional to take a sample for lab testing to be sure.
Does the removal process smell bad?
The removal process does not usually have a smell, but it can be a bit noisy. We work quickly to minimize any disturbance to your neighborhood or home.
How long does the job take?
Most residential attics can be cleared in one to two days depending on the size. We provide a clear timeline before we start any work on your home.