Bullseye Home Inspection - Sarasota, Florida

Possible Causes of Chinese Drywall Problems

Drywall is made from gypsum, which naturally contains sulfur compounds. If the drywall was exposed to humidity at sea, the process of evaporation that occurs as the drywall dries could be responsible for the odors coming from the material. According to a report on Environmental Expert.com, the problems appear to be related to the presence of iron disulfide (FeS2 pyrite) in the material. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), carbonyl sulfide, sulfur dioxide (SO2), and carbon disulfide (CS2) are also suspected as culprits, the Web site said.

The possibility that the Chinese drywall is emitting hydrogen sulfide fumes is disturbing. Exposure to 50 parts per million of hydrogen sulfide for more than ten minutes can cause extreme irritation. Inhalation of 500 to 1,000 parts per million can cause unconsciousness and death through respiratory paralysis and asphyxiation, according to environmental experts.

Important Questions

(Please note: not all Chinese manufacturers make substandard board)

• Do you have a rotten egg odor in your home?

• Do you or any members of your family members have sinus headaches and/or feeling listless or tired?

• Do your metal fixtures and personal belongings have a black film or corrosion?

• Was your home built, upgraded or repaired after 2001?

• Have you changed out your A/C air handler in the past 5 years?

If you can answer yes to three or more of these questions, you may have a problem!

The Drywall inspection report will have photos and will document the drywall manufacturer and the systems that have been effected by the corrosive gas that is being emitted from the drywall.

See Sample Drywall Inspection Report for more info.

Air and Wall Samples can be taken and sent to a certified lab for further documentation and/or possible remediation.

 See Sample Drywall Test Results.