The Risks of Asbestos in Old Insulation and How to Spot It
Posted in Asbestos Removal, on June 10, 2025
Asbestos insulation was very popular in Canada in the mid-to-late 20th century. Known for its fire-resistant and insulating properties, asbestos was either added intentionally to insulation products or ended up there due to contamination in vermiculite mines. Vermiculite, a popular loose-fill insulation material, was often tainted with asbestos from mines like Libby, Montana, which exported materials to Canada. As a result, the asbestos ended up in many homes and properties across the country, including Ottawa and the surrounding areas. Today, some properties still have old contaminated insulation that requires professional asbestos removal in Ottawa. To ensure safe asbestos insulation removal and affordable asbestos removal costs, it's important that you work with a leading, trusted abatement company like Canada's Restoration Services. Look for the signs of asbestos and call our experts right away.
Here is what you need to know about old asbestos insulation removal and its risks.
Risks of Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos removal in Ottawa is incredibly important for property owners who believe that their home or business is contaminated with asbestos insulation because of the real threat asbestos fibres pose. The mineral becomes dangerous when its fibres become airborne, which typically happens when insulation is damaged, disturbed during renovations, or begins to deteriorate with age. Once inhaled, asbestos fibres can embed themselves in the lungs and other parts of the body. Over time, this can lead to several serious health conditions.
The most well-known risk is mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer linked directly to asbestos exposure. Other conditions include asbestosis, which is scarring of the lungs, and an increased risk of lung cancer. These illnesses often take years to develop, and unfortunately, by the time symptoms appear, treatment options can be limited.
How You May Come Into Contact with Asbestos Insulation
In most cases, property owners are unaware that they have asbestos insulation until they start a renovation. Common areas where asbestos-containing insulation may be found include attics, wall cavities, basements, and around old heating systems or boilers.
Vermiculite insulation is especially concerning. If your home contains loose, pebble-like insulation that's grey-brown or silvery-gold in colour, it may be vermiculite. While not all vermiculite contains asbestos, much of it sourced before the 1990s does. If you're unsure about what's in your walls or attic, it's best to stop work immediately and schedule a professional inspection to determine whether you need asbestos insulation in Ottawa. Our experts at Canada's Restoration Services will provide you with advice and guidance to safely facilitate your asbestos insulation removal.
Signs There is Asbestos in Your Insulation
There's no way to confirm the presence of asbestos without proper testing and inspections from an experienced provider, but there are warning signs that may prompt further investigation. If your property was built before 1990 and has never had an insulation upgrade, it may still contain asbestos materials. You might also notice brittle, deteriorating insulation or old heat shields near furnaces and ducts.
Sometimes, property owners concerned about asbestos removal costs often delay action, but the risks of prolonged exposure far outweigh the price of professional abatement. Canada's Restoration Services offers competitive pricing for safe asbestos removal in Ottawa, giving homeowners peace of mind without compromising safety.
Why Professional Removal Matters
Removing asbestos insulation is not a DIY project. Attempting to remove asbestos without proper containment and protective equipment can make the situation worse and put you or your loved ones at risk. Certified professionals at Canada's Restoration Services follow strict safety protocols to contain and remove the material without releasing harmful fibres. Our team also ensures safe disposal in compliance with local and provincial regulations in Ontario.
Professional Asbestos Insulation Removal in Ottawa with Canada's Restoration Services
Asbestos insulation is a hidden hazard that may still be present in older homes throughout Ottawa and the surrounding region. If you're planning a renovation or have noticed signs of deterioration in your insulation, it's time to schedule a proper assessment. Don't let the risk of asbestos put you and your loved ones at risk. Remove harmful asbestos-containing materials safely and effectively with trusted, reputable specialists who will prioritize safety and efficiency.
In Ottawa, our professional teams at Canada's Restoration Services offer detailed inspections, sample testing, and complete abatement. This helps prevent contamination during renovations and ensures your property is safe for future occupants.
