Recognizing it
It looks like small, light granules lying loose between the attic joists. One brand MDH names is Zonolite. If you think you have it, keep stored boxes and foot traffic out of the attic for now.
Vermiculite Attic Insulation Removal in Minneapolis
Typical cost in Minneapolis
- Attic vermiculite or loose-fill, about 800 to 1,500 sq ft of attic$7,500 – $19,000+
Vermiculite is a loose, pebble-like insulation in shades of light brown, gray or gold. MDH says it is best left alone while undisturbed, and that a licensed contractor should handle removal. We take it out when you need the attic for wiring, air sealing or new insulation.
Attics in Minneapolis, Columbia Heights and St. Anthony are all within our area.
Vermiculite work
Leaving it in place
When nothing will disturb the attic, leaving vermiculite alone is an option MDH supports. That changes once you plan to add insulation, run new wiring or open the ceiling below.
Full attic removal
We seal the hatch and the rooms below, run negative air and move the fill into sealed, labeled bags. Air samples are taken before the containment comes down.
Vermiculite in Northeast Minneapolis
From 1938 to 1989, the Western Mineral Products plant at 1720 Madison St. NE processed vermiculite ore from Libby, Montana. MDH reports that waste rock from the plant was used in yards and driveways in Northeast Minneapolis.
That history concerns the plant and its waste rock. On its own it says nothing about any particular house. MDH’s page on the former plant, linked below, has the details for Northeast yards.
After the attic is clear
A few decisions come up once the fill is gone.
New insulation
With the joists bare, your insulation contractor can air seal and insulate without working around the old fill.
The ceiling below
Plaster or texture on the ceiling under the attic may need its own sample if it will be opened.
Ducts in the attic too? See boiler, furnace and pipe insulation removal, or the home page.
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