ASBESTOS INSULATION EXPLAINED: WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE AND SAFER OPTIONS FOR YOUR HOME
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- Oct 11
- 3 min read
If you live in an older home in Winnipeg, there’s a chance your insulation could contain asbestos, a once-popular material now known for its serious health risks. Understanding how to identify it is crucial for protecting your family and making informed decisions about your home’s safety. In this blog, we share everything you need to know about asbestos, what it looks like and what you should do if you suspect you have it in your property.
If you suspect your home may contain asbestos insulation, do not touch it. Disturbing asbestos can release toxic fibres into the air, posing serious health risks to you and your family. Always call a professional for inspection and testing.
What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a type of mineral that was commonly used in construction materials due to its fire-resistant and insulating properties. It was commonly found in homes built before the 1990s, especially in insulation, roofing, flooring, and pipe coverings. While effective as an insulator, asbestos fibres are hazardous when disturbed and inhaled, potentially leading to lung diseases such as asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer.
What Does Asbestos Insulation Look Like?
Asbestos insulation doesn’t always stand out at first glance, which makes it especially dangerous. It was used in many forms throughout homes in the past, and its appearance can vary depending on the type and application. Here are the most common types of asbestos insulation and what to look for:
Loose-fill asbestos insulation: This type can be found in attics and wall cavities. It looks like a fluffy, greyish material, similar to old cellulose or paper insulation. It may appear dusty or fibrous and can be mistaken for harmless insulation. If disturbed, it can release fine asbestos fibres into the air.
Vermiculite insulation: Vermiculite is a pebble-like material that expands when heated. It’s usually light brown or gold and has a shiny, granular texture. While not all vermiculite contains asbestos, a significant portion is contaminated. If your attic has insulation that looks like small, glittery rocks, it’s best to have it tested.
Pipe and boiler insulation: Asbestos was commonly used to wrap pipes and boilers. It may appear as white or grey corrugated paper, plaster-like coatings, or rigid blocks. These materials often look aged, cracked, or brittle, especially in older basements or utility rooms.
Sprayed-on asbestos insulation: Found on ceilings, beams, and walls, this type has a rough, textured appearance, similar to popcorn ceiling material. It was used for fireproofing and soundproofing in some homes and buildings.
Because asbestos can resemble other common materials, visual identification is not enough. If you suspect your insulation may contain asbestos, avoid touching or disturbing it. The safest course of action is to contact a certified professional for inspection and testing.
Why Is Asbestos Dangerous?
Asbestos becomes dangerous when its fibres are released into the air, usually during renovations, demolition, or deterioration. These microscopic fibres can remain airborne for long periods and, when inhaled, lodge in the lungs. The health effects may not appear for decades, making early detection and removal essential.
Safe Insulation Materials
If you’re planning to upgrade your insulation, there are safe and effective alternatives to asbestos. Here are two popular options used by insulation contractors:
Spray foam is a modern, energy-efficient option that expands to fill gaps and cracks, creating an airtight seal. It’s ideal for attics, crawl spaces, and walls. Benefits include:
Excellent thermal performance
Moisture resistance
Long lifespan
Improved indoor air quality
Spray foam must be installed by professionals due to its chemical composition and application process.
Fibreglass is one of the most popular and affordable types of insulation. It comes in batts, rolls, or loose fill and is made from fine glass fibres. Benefits include:
Non-combustible
Resistant to moisture and mould
Easy to install
Widely available
While fibreglass is safe, proper protective gear should be worn during installation to avoid skin and respiratory irritation.
What Should You Do If You Suspect Asbestos?
If you think your home may contain asbestos insulation, do not attempt to remove it yourself. Disturbing asbestos can release harmful fibres into the air. Instead, hire a certified asbestos abatement company to inspect and safely remove the material.
Once the asbestos is professionally removed, Warm Home Insulation can help you re-insulate your home with safe, modern materials like spray foam or fibreglass. Our team of experienced insulation contractors in Winnipeg is here to make your home warmer, safer, and more energy-efficient.
Ready to Upgrade Your Insulation Safely?
Contact Warm Home Insulation today to schedule a consultation. While we don’t handle asbestos removal, we work closely with trusted professionals and are ready to re-insulate your home with top-quality, safe materials. Let’s make your home a warm and healthy place to live.