In the state of Paraíba there is a significant concentration of the mineral vermiculite which, through its extraction, generates raw materials for civil construction. During its processing, tons of waste are generated and disposed of in the environment in an inappropriate way, causing major environmental impacts. Given this, this work aimed to analyze the feasibility of using vermiculite waste to replace the portion of natural fine sand in the preparation of coating mortars with improved properties. Samples of vermiculite residue were collected from the mining company Pedra Lavrada, Santa Luzia/PB, to perform characterization tests, seeking to evaluate its application in mortars. Mortars were prepared with 1:4 ratio (cement: sand), with levels of substitution of fine sand by waste of 0%, 30%, 60% and 100%. Portland cement CP II-Z 32 was used, with a water/cement factor between 0.65 and 0.85. The mortars were analyzed in the hardened state through compressive strength tests, absorption by immersion and capillarity. Based on the best results found, plates were made for thermal behavior testing.