What Does Chinese Drywall Have To Do With Mold?

This fall, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has confirmed that over 6.2 million sheets of Chinese drywall have been imported into the United States during the past five years. The actual numbers are certain to be much higher. Although some of the sheetrock is clearly marked "Made in China", other shipments may contain no markings at all. Chinese drywall has been distributed all over the country, but the majority of the product has been found in Florida and Louisiana.

Signs and Symptoms
The Chinese drywall in question contains sulfur, which is not present in wallboard produced in the U.S. In addition, the CPSC found that the Chinese product contained compounds normally found in acrylic paints and 10 times more Stontium (an alkaline earth metal that turns yellow when exposed to air) than American drywall. Residents with Chinese drywall complained of rotten egg smells throughout their homes and reported such health problems as asthma, headaches, coughing, and insomnia.

Where Damage Occurs
The sulfur, increased Strontium levels, and other compounds in the Chinese drywall have led to failures of air conditioning coils, corrosion of electrical wiring, and corrosion of plumbing fixtures - particularly copper pipes and fittings.

Resulting Mold Issues
When corrosion of HVAC system components, plumbing systems, or electrical wiring occurs, this can result in failure of that system. Back-up of condensation and leaks are common with system failures and can result in water or moisture intrusion into the home. In turn, this leads to an increased potential for fungal growth inside the home, particularly when the water or moisture intrusion goes undetected for some period of time.

If You Suspect Chinese Drywall In Your Home
It is difficult to performs inspections or testing that positively identify where Chinese drywall is present in a home. Some disassembly of walls is required, and then positive identification is still not always possible. A special coalition has been formed in Florida to help builders, contractors, and home owners deal with the removal of Chinese drywall. For more information on the coalition and their guidance, go to www.chinesedrywallprotocol.org.

Air Matters has performed mold inspection and testing services in the Raleigh NC area since 2002. The owner, Renee Ward, has over 22 years of safety and environmental experience and holds both her Bachelor of Science and Masters degrees in engineering. Renee is also a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. Contact Air Matters at (919) 870-6748.