What vermiculite looks like
If your attic has gray-brown, pebble-textured, lightweight insulation that pours rather than rolls — and especially if you find a "Zonolite" stamped bag anywhere in the attic — you likely have vermiculite insulation. About 70% of vermiculite installed in U.S. homes between the 1940s and 1990 came from a single mine in Libby, Montana, contaminated with tremolite asbestos.
Don't store boxes in it. Don't do roof or attic work that disturbs it. Send us photos — visual identification is usually conclusive.
Vermiculite removal cost in Michigan
Pricing is driven by three factors: attic square footage, insulation depth, and access.
| Attic Size & Depth | Typical Removal Cost |
|---|---|
| Small (under 700 sq ft, 4–6" depth) | $1,500–$3,500 |
| Medium (700–1,200 sq ft, 4–8" depth) | $3,000–$6,500 |
| Large (1,200–2,000 sq ft, 6–10" depth) | $5,500–$10,000 |
| Very large or difficult access | $8,000+ |
Adds: Inspection $400–$800 · Clearance air monitoring $400–$700 (required) · Re-insulation $1.50–$3.00/sq ft (separate). See full pricing guide →
The Zonolite Attic Insulation (ZAI) Trust became active in 2014 and is currently accepting claims. If your home has Zonolite vermiculite insulation, you may qualify for reimbursement of up to 55% of your removal costs — up to a maximum of $4,935. We'll provide all the project documentation you need to file a claim.
Learn About the ZAI Trust