Toxic Chinese Drywall

toxic250.jpg

Dangerous toxins in Chinese drywall force people from their homes.

Dangerous Drywall

Thousands of new homeowners nationwide are discovering that their homes were made with toxic drywall from China.  These toxins are so dangerous that many people are being forced to leave their homes.  The toxic Chinese drywall contains hydrogen sulfide and formaldehyde, which are making some homeowners sick with nosebleeds, sinus infections, and respiratory problems.

Shortage of Local Building Materials Led to Imports

After hurricanes Katrina and Wilma, and following a construction boom, the U.S. was experiencing a shortage of building materials.  Inexpensive drywall was imported from China.  Estimates find that more than 500 million pounds of Chinese gypsum board was imported from 2004 to 2008, enough to build tens of thousands of homes.  The toxic drywall primarily ended up in the Southeast, with concentrations in Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi.

Homeowners Hung Out to Dry

For the people who lived through hurricane Katrina, who may not have had insurance policies to cover the damage from the storm and subsequent flood, who are finally getting their homes rebuilt, who are now discovering that their new walls are dangerously toxic, their nightmare is still not over.  Obviously these homeowners can't sell their home because no one wants to buy a toxic house.  Worse still, in many cases, insurance companies are declining to fill their claims to have the toxic drywall removed, and then canceling their policies, declaring, "We provide insurance, not warranty service."

Is Your Drywall Toxic?

There are some telltale signs of toxic drywall.  Often there is a rotten-egg odor caused by sulfur gases.  If you can see the back of your drywall, look for printing that says Made in China or stamped with KNAUF.  If the evaporator coils and copper wires on indoor air conditioning units are black, or if the copper wires behind the covers of electrical outlets are black, you have toxic drywall.

Better Drywall

Studies suggest that drywall is the third biggest producer of greenhouse gases among building materials.  An alternate drywall option, called EcoRock, is made from 85% industrial by-products, is recyclable, and uses 20 percent of the energy that traditional drywall requires.

Related Articles

Source: Neighborhood Link
Search All Articles
Related Articles
How To Save On Closing Costs
HomecashsmMany are shocked when they learn how much they owe to close on their mortgage. But there are ways to save before you sign on th
What are the FHA Loan Requirements?
FhaThe FHA makes it easy to secure a home loan. The FHA Loan Requirements are described in detail in this article.
Homeowners Insurance
HomeinstTips on how to shop for homeowners insurance and save money-also avice on flood insurance
Asbestos
Asbestosdanger2_thAn information guide on asbestos and asbestos abatement. Also discusses vermiculite and how it relates to asbestos.

More...
Most Popular
Work Related Hearing Loss
NoisemeterthumbNoise-induced hearing loss is one of the most common occupational diseases
Should You Invest In An ETF?
MarketssmLearn if ETFs are right for your investment portfolio
How To Select The Right HOA Management Company
QuestionshowsmFour tips to help you select the right firm for your community
The Value of Home Maintenance
HomemntcsmWith proper maintenance your home will not only provide a pleasant and safe living environment but will also help keep small fix

More...

Zip Code Profiler

Neighborhoods, Home Values, Schools, City & State Data, Sex Offender Lists, more.

Instant Home Value!