Loose fill asbestos insulation. Here's what you need to know about it.
Loose fill asbestos insulation Loose-fill insulation is considered to be the most harmful form since the particles are already broken down and small enough to become airborne. Because asbestos fibres are a health hazard when airborne, loose-fill asbestos insulation is of particular concern. Any disturbance of the fibers could cause them to go airborne and put you at risk of inhaling asbestos. SERS practice safe asbestos testing and remediation, maximizing salvageable materials and protecting the environment. Its colors can range from white to silver, green, brown, gold, and blue. It is prevalent in various insulation materials and applications, posing significant health hazards. It’s non-toxic and fire-resistant, making it a safe and efficient option for homeowners. So how to identify if your house has asbestos insulation, what does it look like? Asbestos as loose-fill insulation looks like shredded cotton. It’s in a loose form, which means it doesn’t look like your regular wool and fibreglass batt products we have today. Fluffy, named for its fluffy appearance, is an insulation product made of loose amosite asbestos. Feb 8, 2023 · How to tell the difference between cellulose and asbestos insulation Asbestos insulation is generally pebble-like and is greyish-brown or silver-gold, whereas cellulose insulation is greyish and looks like shredded paper. Knowing what asbestos insulation looks like can keep you and your family safe. What does asbestos insulation look like in attics? If your attic has asbestos insulation it is most likely loose fill insulation. Aug 29, 2022 · Even though asbestos insulation is no more used, some old houses still have it. Nov 19, 2022 · Canberra families whose houses were torn down to remove the threat of loose-fill asbestos insulation will soon have a dedicated public place of reflection at the National Arboretum. Jun 10, 2024 · Loose-fill insulation: If your attic floor is covered with loose, pebbly material that looks like vermiculite, it might contain asbestos. This ban remains in force, and covers the import, manufacture and use of all asbestos-containing materials. Hoping somebody can help here. Identify the signs and know your options for safety. The *Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)*, a key regulatory body, has established strict guidelines for its handling and removal. The NSW Government also introduced a number of new laws to identify properties affected by loose-fill asbestos insulation and to protect residents, workers and communities. Older homes and buildings may have this type of insulation installed. The Loose-fill Asbestos Insulation register (the register) is a record of homes in NSW that have tested positive and contain loose-fill asbestos. You still wouldn’t catch me cleaning that crap up without a respirator on. Common types of loose fill insulation include cellulose, fiberglass, and mineral wool. If you have any suspicions that your home might contain loose fill asbestos insulation, it’s vital that a sample is tested as soon as possible. Inside walls or around pipes, a lot of particles can be released and this way, insulation becomes an issue that most homeowners encounter at some point. May 18, 2025 · Loose filled asbestos, a hazardous insulation material commonly installed in residential attics, presents significant health risks. You can find it in flooring Loose-fill asbestos insulation can be dangerous to your health. The unique physical characteristics of its fibers make asbestos Jun 30, 2021 · Whether you suspect asbestos in your walls, attic, or pipes, learn how to tell if your vermiculite insulation contains asbestos, and when to get a test. This is quite different from asbestos, which looks like hairs, threads, or soft needles. Estimates of cancer risk associated with asbestos exposure have been based largely on high exposure in occupational settings, including mining, manufacturing, and construction industries. Builders will use a blower to blow the cellulose into the wall through holes. 5”) when complete. Jul 10, 2020 · The types of insulation most commonly made with asbestos are loose-fill insulation, which comes in a variety of forms. Asbestos was mined throughout the United States and is possible in homes built before the 1990s as mines were still active. It was used in many applications, including around hot water pipes, in attics, and walls and ceilings. Find out more about it how to stay safe around loose-fill asbestos. With that said - yeah it looks like you have rock wool and fiberglass. It can also cause other serious diseases. Apr 13, 2023 · Loose-fill insulation can be fluffy with grey, blue, or white colouring. Is The Loose-Fill Gray, Soft And Lacking A Shine? if so, it is most likely insulation made from cellulose containing no minerals and a high content or recycled paper. They could also be found stuffed in paper bags and inserted into floor joists. Sep 27, 2010 · The first step in loose fill attic insulation removal is determining what type of insulation you’ll be working with. One distinguishing characteristic of asbestos loose-fill insulation is its tendency to create dust when disturbed. Jul 19, 2023 · Decades later, she discovered it was a loose-fill asbestos insulation known as Mr Fluffy, which was commonly used across Canberra and parts of New South Wales until the 1970s. The types of insulation that were most commonly made with asbestos are loose-fill, also called blown-in, insulation. Loose-fill asbestos is also known as friable asbestos, meaning it can be crushed or made into powder. Pipe Insulation: Asbestos pipe insulation appears as cardboard-like material or wool-like fibers wrapped around pipes, especially in older basements or utility rooms. Loose-fill asbestos is friable – that is, it can be crumbled, pulverised or reduced to powder where tiny fibres can be released into the air and inhaled. Loose fill asbestos is now very rare to find in domestic properties. Jan 1, 2024 · Loose-fill asbestos insulation refers to a type of insulation made of pure, raw amosite or crocidolite asbestos. Keep an eye out for light, fluffy fibers that are used as insulation. There are many types of asbestos insulation: block, loose fill, spray-on and wrap. It was often poured or blown through tubes into attic floors and other spaces in the walls of buildings. It may look fluffy, chalky, or wrapped around pipes, and it’s also found as loose-fill, rigid boards, or spray-on coatings. Loose fill asbestos is one of In comparison to batt insulation, loose-fill insulation can threaten people's health if poorly installed. The Home Building Act 1989 requires the NSW Government to maintain the register. Loose-fill insulation was designed to be either blown or poured into hollow areas and roof voids. The program and its associated assistance package is designed to help NSW residents by locating and remediating properties affected by loose-fill asbestos insulation. homes may have loose fill attic insulation made from asbestos contaminated Zonolite. Use this guide to identify if you have the hazardous material in your home. When I state loose fill insulation I am referring to the insulation fluff they commonly pump into many homes roofs in the past (And possibly still do). What does asbestos loose-fill insulation look like? Loose-fill asbestos insulation has a fluffy yet solid appearance and usually is grey/white with a blue tinge. Asbestos insulation can come in many forms, including loose-fill insulation, pipe insulation, and insulation board. It was used to insulate lofts and insulation between floors. Jan 10, 2021 · Asbestos loose fill was used to insulate industrial and domestic premises so can be found in between cavity walls, under floorboards and in loft spaces. Creating Rock-Solid Solutions, Protecting Your Environment The Future of Insulation is NOW. I’ve done a lot of research and pretty sure it’s not asbestos but just looking for some other opinions. Find more here! Sep 29, 2025 · Asbestos-containing insulation is banned or restricted in many countries, but it's still found in some homes. Jul 31, 2025 · When people encounter crumbled asbestos, inhaling it can be hazardous to their health. What does asbestos insulation look like? Asbestos was widely used during construction from the 1930s to 1990. It could be loose-fill asbestos fiber, and is extremely dangerous. S. Test for Asbestos The best way to tell if your insulation has asbestos or is perhaps contaminated by asbestos is by testing for it. Why Remove Loose Fill Insulation? There are several reasons why you might need to remove loose fill Oct 7, 2022 · Read Octfolio's article to find out what does asbestos insulation look like, how to identify it and what loose-fill and cellulose asbestos are. “The types of insulation in homes most likely to contain asbestos include loose-fill vermiculite insulation and wrap insulation commonly found around pipes and A/C units. Its association with asbestos, a dangerous mineral, poses significant health risks that homeowners must understand and address. Oct 27, 2021 · One of its common uses was as loose-fill insulation. Mar 17, 2025 · Loose-fill asbestos insulation is particularly dangerous due to the high risk of inhaling asbestos fibers. If your loose-fill insulation has a fluffy but solid appearance and a whitish-gray color with a blue tinge, it might be made from this material. [2] If you Jun 20, 2022 · How Can You Identify Loose Fill Asbestos Insulation? For anyone in the construction industry, when renovating or demolishing a house from the 1960’s and 1970’s it is important to have a reliable screening method. These include: Loose-Fill (Blown-In) Insulation Appearance: Loose-fill insulation is often fluffy and can be mistaken for other types of insulation. Cellulose insulation looks like newspaper that has been soaked, shredded, and dried. The Loose-fill Aug 12, 2025 · Loose fill insulation consists of small particles of fiber, foam, or other materials. Loose-fill insulation comes in a variety of materials. Vermiculite insulation: Often used in attics, it looks like small grey-brown pebbles. Here's what you need to know about it. It may look like lumps of clay to the untrained eye, so if you notice this anywhere in your building called the experts immediately. Visually, it can often be tricky to tell the difference between asbestos insulation and cellulose insulation. Mar 20, 2024 · Loose-fill asbestos usually appears fluffy or lumpy, while other forms like vermiculite resemble smaller pebbles once heated with the same grey-brown or silvery-gold colors. May 5, 2016 · Asbestos Insulation Is a Nightmare for Canberra Homeowners Mr. The asbestos wasn’t added - it was naturally occurring in the mines that they harvest the vermiculite from. Types of asbestos insulation include loose-fill insulation, pipe wrap, block insulation, acoustic tiles Oct 3, 2016 · If your attic or wall insulation is in batt or blanket form, whether it’s fiberglass, cellulose, or another material, you generally don’t have to be concerned about asbestos. Pipe lagging and duct insulation: White or grey fibrous wrapping around hot water pipes, boilers, or HVAC systems. Some vermiculite (especially from Feb 2, 2021 · Rock wool or mineral wool insulation appearance: This article describes what mineral wool insulation looks like. Learn how to identify asbestos insulation. Use a test kit to determine if the insulation is comprised of asbestos. Aug 21, 2024 · Loose-fill fiberglass is a safe alternative to older loose-fill asbestos insulation. It is easy to identify by its loose, lumpy Industrial combination insulation Insulated heater banks K-Lite insulation material Loose-fill asbestos insulation Millboard Pipe insulation (lagging) Sprayed coatings of asbestos Get free shipping on qualified Loose Fill Insulation products or Buy Online Pick Up in Store today in the Building Materials Department. Nov 14, 2022 · Loose-fill asbestos insulation, sometimes known as loose-fill attic insulation, is one of the most common asbestos-containing insulation. Does this look like asbestos insulation? Roof cavity Photo 1 Roof cavity Phpto 2 Roof cavity Photo 3 Roof cavity Photo 4 May 19, 2025 · If your home was built before 1990, you might have vermiculite insulation in your walls or attic. Dec 13, 2023 · What Does Asbestos Insulation Look Like? “Asbestos insulation may look like wrapping material or loose-fill material that is fluffy or stony in appearance,” says Whitmer. Oct 9, 2021 · Unlike the asbestos you find manufactured into building materials like cladding and vinyl, loose fill asbestos is a loose form of the natural material used as asbestos insulation. These particles are blown into attics and walls, filling nooks and crannies to provide an effective thermal barrier. The issue In 2015, the NSW Government launched the Voluntary Purchase and Demolition Program to address the issue of loose-fill asbestos insulation in NSW residential homes. Protect your rights with expert legal guidance. The program and its associated assistance package is designed to provide safety, certainty and support for NSW residents by locating and remediating properties affected by loose-fill asbestos insulation. Nov 12, 2025 · Asbestos Insulation History at a Glance Other Names: Block insulation, fill insulation, loose insulation, pipe insulation, spray-on insulation Years of Manufacture: 1866 – 1990 Military Use: Aircraft, military barracks, ships, shipyards Places Used: Attics, boilers, buildings, ceilings, factories, floors, manufacturing floors, residential buildings, sheet packing, ships, walls Asbestos Use Jul 18, 2019 · 30 million U. I'm the state inspector for asbestos and demolition and in regards to loose-fill asbestos, I manage the inspection program within the loose-fill asbestos task force. Loose Fill Insulation Asbestos-containing loose-fill insulation, also known as asbestos attic insulation, was a common insulation material used in homes and buildings primarily from the 1920s to the 1970s. Wet spray cellulose is something builders use to apply to walls that have been newly constructed. If you’re insulation is the batt style insulation, as the loose fill insulation has the higher risk as it’s loosely poured into wall or joist cavities. This toxic, natural mineral can cause mesothelioma and lung cancer. Depth of insulation was around 5-6. How can I identify if my property has loose-fill asbestos insulation? Engage a licensed professional to conduct an inspection. Sep 6, 2019 · If the insulation lays flat it may well be Zonolite in the joist cavity, versus loose-fill fiberglass whereby the particles have a tendency to puff-up because of heat. Apr 7, 2022 · Insulation that may contain asbestos comes in multiple forms, including loose-fill and spray-on. checked out a ceiling cavity and saw this loose-fill type blow in insulation. Sep 25, 2024 · Loose-Fill Insulation: Fluffy, granular, or pebble-like insulation found in attics or walls might contain asbestos. The fibres could be easily disturbed, leading to airborne contamination. The composition of loose-fill asbestos insulation makes it easily disturbed by the slightest wind, sending dangerous inhalable asbestos fibers into the air. Dec 5, 2023 · What does asbestos loose-fill insulation look like? Loose-fill asbestos insulation has a fluffy yet solid appearance and usually is grey/white with a blue tinge. Apr 30, 2025 · Loose-fill insulation: Commonly found in roof spaces, particularly in NSW homes, where “Mr Fluffy” asbestos (a type of loose-fill amosite asbestos) was used. Loose-fill asbestos insulation is a type of insulation that was often used in attics, walls, and ceilings. Dec 19, 2014 · The ACT and parts of New South Wales are dealing with the potentially deadly legacy of loose-fill asbestos insulation in the 1960s and 1970s used by an operator that became known as Mr Fluffy. Several laws were introduced to identify properties affected by loose-fill asbestos insulation (LFAI) and to protect residents, workers and communities. I've been the state inspector for Safe Work New South Wales for about four years now. Here's how to determine if a home has it and what to do. Sometimes this type of insulation is almost entirely made up of asbestos, and hence the level of toxicity is extremely high. Loose asbestos fibres (usually South African sourced amosite asbestos) pumped from a truck-based hopper via a hose into the ceiling space of the structure. Rockwool Premium Plus™ loose-fill insulation is setting the standard for 21st century building performance by combining superior thermal efficiency, acoustical performance, and fire protection in one environmentally conscious product. Asbestos has wonderful insulating and heat resistant properties, so it was commonly used to fill spaces in attics and walls. Why is asbestos insulation dangerous? Sep 10, 2024 · Loose-fill insulation – often found in older homes, this type of insulation was made from pure asbestos or mixed with other materials. Asbestos insulation comes in various forms, including vermiculite, spray insulation, pipe wrapping, loose-fill insulation, and block insulation. What is Vermiculite Concerns About Asbestos-contaminated Vermiculite Insulation Identifying Insulation That is Made From Vermiculite Risk of Exposure to Asbestos If You Have Vermiculite Insulation Concerns About Exposure If Your Oct 21, 2021 · What Does Asbestos Insulation Look Like? Keep reading to continue learning about cellulose and asbestos insulation. Loose fill is often found in attics, and is the most dangerous form of asbestos to encounter. It was used in residential properties as ceiling and wall cavity insulation during the 1960s and 1970s. 3 Apr 12, 2016 · Test registrations for loose-fill asbestos insulation in NSW Mr Swinburn said while their decision depended on the house valuation, they would likely demolish and rebuild. Over time, hazardous airborne fibres can move from the ceiling into living spaces. Thanks. You can identify what types of insulation may potentially contain asbestos through visual inspection, but only professional testing can confirm it. This insulation material was favoured for its fire-resistant properties and thermal efficiency but has since been recognized as a significant health hazard due to the presence of asbestos Apr 21, 2025 · Look for loose fibers between your walls and in your ceilings. Sep 18, 2024 · Asbestos insulation was used in various forms such as loose-fill, blankets, and boards in homes, commercial buildings, schools, and industrial facilities. . Because it can take many forms, appearance alone isn’t enough to confirm asbestos. Jul 22, 2025 · Loose-Fill Insulation Though loose-fill insulation made with materials like cellulose and fiberglass is still a popular insulation option today, older loose-fill insulation was often made of asbestos. It has a grey paper-like appearance and is extremely harmful to your health. Nov 2, 2017 · Loose-fill asbestos insulation and health Date: November 2, 2017 Source: Australian National University Summary: A landmark study into the health impacts of living in a house with loose-fill May 28, 2025 · Unlike modern cellulose or fiberglass insulation, asbestos loose-fill often has a somewhat coarser appearance and may contain visible chunks or denser areas where the material has settled or compacted. Jul 11, 2023 · Discover how to distinguish between asbestos and cellulose insulation in your home, understand their characteristics. Jul 18, 2025 · Vermiculite loose fill insulation, a lightweight and heat-resistant material, was a popular choice for insulating homes from the early 20th century until the 1990s. Mar 7, 2011 · Loose fill asbestos insulation, Vermiculite Jump to Latest 6. Sep 26, 2019 · The two most common forms of cellulose insulation include dry cellulose and that is also known as loose-fill insulation. While asbestos is a harmful substance, this wasn’t always common knowledge—and it was Oct 15, 2022 · This makes loose-fill asbestos insulation one of the most dangerous, since the danger of asbestos is in inhaling its tiny fibers! Loose-fill asbestos insulation will usually be whitish, though it can also be light-mid gray or slightly blue in color. Asbestos insulation was common in buildings until the late 1970s. Loose-fill asbestos insulation can't be identified just by looking at it. Prior to that, I've been an inspector for approximately 15 years in the construction team. The colors typically range from grayish See full list on thespruce. It needs to be tested and handled by professionals. It is made from asbestos fibers that have been chopped into small pieces. Loose-fill asbestos insulation is somewhat granular and fluffy in nature and it contains a very high percentage of asbestos. Asbestos was usually contained in vermiculite insulation, which is not what you have. Mar 16, 2021 · Vermiculite was used throughout the 20th century in construction materials, including as loose-fill insulation for commercial buildings and residential homes. Apr 24, 2025 · This page provides important information on how to protect yourself and your family if you suspect that you might have vermiculite insulation from Libby, Montana. Learn how to tell if insulation is asbestos and protect your health. Friability is a critical attribute of *loose filled asbestos*; its easily crumbled nature leads to the release of airborne fibers Blog Mr Fluffy and Loose Fill Asbestos Insulation in Victoria Mr Fluffy – one of the worst asbestos contaminations in history Dick Jansen was an entrepreneur and builder throughout the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. For professional assistance, consider asbestos testing services and review regulations from the EPA to The loose fill asbestos insulation issue is being resolved – but at the expense and inconvenience of acquiring and demolishing affected homes. It can be identified by its loose, lumpy form and fluffy consistency. Oct 1, 2022 · Easiest Way to Tell Cellulose From Asbestos The texture of the two insulation materials is what most easily distinguishes cellulose insulation from asbestos insulation. Unlike many other asbestos-containing materials, Mr. Nov 10, 2025 · Asbestos insulation can vary in appearance depending on the type. 5cm (2-2. This paper-based insulation is treated with boric acid and other chemicals to ensure it is fire and pest resistant. 5K views 2 replies 3 participants last post by Daniel Holzman Mar 7, 2011 G. Loose fill asbestos has a distinctive appearance: Loose fill asbestos is solid but may seem “fluffy” Particles are usually grey or white but can have a grayish tinge The insulation may be scattered like a dirt spread If you have never seen or worked with loose fill asbestos, it may look like lumps of clay or piles of gray-white dust. Manufactured from raw crushed asbestos, loose-fill asbestos was commonly installed in roof spaces as ceiling insulation. No idea when it was put in but at least over 50 years ago. On 31 December 2003, Australia implemented a complete, nation-wide ban on asbestos-containing products including loose-fill insulation and other insulation products. it can also be used to fill wall cavities. Both asbestos and cellulose insulation can be applied in a variety of ways, from blanket insulation to loose fill. However, It is hard to tell the difference between asbestos and cellulose insulation visually. Jun 10, 2019 · Loose fill asbestos is most commonly found in lofts as loft insulation, but it can also be found under floorboards an inside cavity walls, both in domestic and commercial properties. Jan 13, 2025 · Asbestos insulation is a building material that contains asbestos. com Oct 6, 2025 · What does asbestos insulation look like in a home? In many cases, it shows up as gray, white, or brown. The only way to know for sure is through professional testing, but here are signs Loose-fill asbestos may be found in lofts, under floorboards, or inside cavity walls, while pipe lagging and insulation boards look more solid and chalky. Jun 19, 2025 · Loose-Fill Insulation: fluffy, white/grey material in lofts or cavities Spray-Applied Insulation: coatings on ceilings, beams or ductwork, common in commercial settings AIB (Asbestos Insulating Board): rigid boards used in ceilings and fire breaks Boiler Insulation: dense asbestos material lining older industrial boilers. Fluffy is not held together with a bonding agent and easily releases toxic fibers into the air. May 27, 2019 · Old farmhouse with broken down loose fill insulation when we tore out lathe and plaster. It is extremely fibrous and will readily release fibres into the air The issue The Asbestos Response Taskforce was established in June 2014 to deliver an enduring, coordinated, comprehensive and compassionate response to assist homeowners and their families directly affected by the legacy of loose fill asbestos insulation in the ACT. Sep 25, 2024 · Types of Asbestos Insulation Asbestos was incorporated into several types of insulation, each with distinct appearances and uses. These types of insulation are often difficult to distinguish from safer alternatives, making professional testing necessary for identifying the type of asbestos. Hey Guys, Whilst in my roof the other day I noticed that I have a combination of insulation Bats & loose fill insulation (Somewhat compress over a long period of time) underneath it. Mar 21, 2022 · As loose-fill insulation, asbestos can resemble broken-down styrofoam in white or lighter shades of eggshell gray. Mineral wool or "rock wool" (also written "rockwool" or slag wool may be installed as chopped or stranded material, loose fill or in batts, usually white but possibly gray or with yellow, gold or other colors imparted by a resin binder or characterized by the mineral fiber source Therefore, buildings that were built before 1978 most likely contain asbestos insulation. Jul 29, 2025 · The Loose-fill Asbestos Program is available to NSW residents whose homes contain loose-fill asbestos insulation. Oct 20, 2022 · However, there are loose-fill wall and attic insulation which can contain asbestos. This stuff loves to nestle between joists and in corners. Loose-fill asbestos insulation Description Classified as friable in every Australian state and territory. Nov 25, 2024 · Loose-Fill Insulation Many buildings use this fluffy, lumpy insulation material to fill hollow spaces in structures by pouring it on attic floors or blowing it into empty spaces. Jun 2, 2020 · However, there are loose-fill wall and attic insulation which can contain asbestos. It has a granular, lumpy texture that may resemble small pebbles or gravel. Loose Fill Asbestos in Lofts Potentially the most dangerous Asbestos containing material, loose fill Asbestos is often located in floorboards and loft spaces of industrial and domestic premises, due to its insulating qualities. Apr 10, 2025 · Learn how to identify asbestos insulation, the health risks it poses, and your legal options if exposed. gshqhfabksjiknscpbmnsbjeefoxjiukgykjzkrexioddnfneseqyyjldmqjopxvugmbqovrsta