Vermiculite Attic Insulation Removal in Grand Rapids, MI

Vermiculite attic insulation — sold under the brand name Zonolite — was widely installed in Grand Rapids homes from the 1940s through 1990. The EPA estimates that approximately 70% of vermiculite sold in the US before 1990 came from the Libby, Montana mine, which was contaminated with tremolite asbestos — one of the most dangerous fiber types. If your Grand Rapids home has vermiculite insulation, it should be treated as asbestos-contaminated until proven otherwise.

US Asbestos Contracting provides safe, EPA-compliant vermiculite removal throughout Grand Rapids and all of Kent County.

How to Identify Vermiculite Insulation

• Small, pebble-like granules — gold, silver, or gray colored
• Lightweight with an accordion-like or layered texture
• Found in attic floor joists of homes built 1940–1990
• May be partially covered by other insulation added later
• Depth typically ranges from 2–8 inches

Our Vermiculite Removal Process

Step 1: Attic Inspection & Testing

We inspect your Grand Rapids attic, collect samples of the vermiculite, and send them to an NVLAP-accredited lab for asbestos analysis. Results within 48–72 hours.

Step 2: Full Attic Containment

Attic access points, HVAC returns, and ceiling light fixtures are sealed. We install negative-air HEPA units and establish a decontamination chamber at the attic entry point.

Step 3: HEPA-Vacuum Extraction

Workers in full Tyvek suits and respirators use industrial HEPA vacuums and wet methods to extract all vermiculite from the attic floor. All material is bagged in approved asbestos disposal bags.

Step 4: Surface Cleaning & Air Clearance

All attic surfaces are HEPA-vacuumed and wet-wiped. Independent air clearance testing confirms the attic is safe before insulation is restored.

Vermiculite Removal Costs in Grand Rapids

• Small attic (under 800 sq ft): $3,500–$5,500
• Average attic (800–1,500 sq ft): $5,500–$9,000
• Large attic (over 1,500 sq ft): $9,000–$15,000+

Frequently Asked Questions