There are countless insulation materials on the market, among which vermiculite is one. Used since the 1960s in American homes, this material nevertheless arouses certain controversies, particularly concerning the dangerous materials that constitute it, such as asbestos.
The benefits of vermiculite for insulation
Among all the insulation materials on the market, it is not always easy to make the right choice. While natural insulation continues to be popular, certain products such as mineral insulation are becoming increasingly popular. The reason is simple since it is a particularly economical solution. Among the materials worth mentioning is vermiculite. The latter is generally used for the insulation of the attic, the attic, the floors or even the between-ceilings. It is quite customary to combine this material directly with concrete for renovation or construction projects.
Commercially, vermiculite is often sold in the form of panels or in bulk. One of its advantages is that it is simple to implement even in the most difficult to access areas. But that’s not all ! This material is also rot-proof and incombustible. It does not contain any allergenic substances and does not cause irritation even under the influence of heat.
Other advantages associated with this insulation can be cited as its stability and excellent thermal resistance. In the field of building and construction, it is even said that vermiculite is unalterable over time. All its advantages have made it a highly prized product in acoustic insulation, more than thermal.
Asbestos in this mineral material?
One of the controversies relating to the use of vermiculite concerns the presence of asbestos in this material. Indeed, the first stocks mined from the Libby mine in Montana that were used to insulate most American homes showed natural traces of asbestos such as amphibole-type tremolite. Remember that this substance is classified as carcinogenic by the IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer.
Be that as it may, today, manufacturers are very careful about the quality of the products marketed, which can ease people’s minds:
vermiculite no longer contains asbestos.
vermiculite in the garden
Vermiculite is also used by gardeners in the manufacture of substrates since it helps to lighten them. As a result, it is found in particular in green roofs. In addition, it stores and redistributes minerals to plants, while maintaining good humidity.
Some plants such as palm trees, bonsai or cacti are particularly well in a potting soil containing vermiculite.