HUD and CPSC Recommend Removing Drywall and Replacing Components
Based on scientific study of the problem to date, HUD and CPSC recommend consumers remove all possible problem drywall from their homes, and replace electrical components and wiring, gas service piping, fire suppression sprinkler systems, smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms. Taking these steps should help eliminate both the source of the problem drywall and corrosion-damaged components that might cause a safety problem in the home.
The CPSC cautions consumers to exercise caution in contracting for testing and remediation.
For more information from the CDC on this issue visit http://www.cpsc.gov/info/drywall/index.html
Chinese Drywall has been found in several areas in and around the Houston/Harris County areas. This drywall was originally brought into the continental US due to a reduction in supply from hurricanes in Florida, Louisiana and Texas. Most of the product was imported during the 2001 to 2008 time frame. The drywall is believed to be made from “Fly Ash” which is a by product of coal burning power plants. The product has a slight gray color rather than the traditional white coloring. This byproduct is high in hydrogen sulfide and is known to cause corrosion in non-ferrous metals like copper, aluminum, brass, silver and many others. Homes suspected of containing this substance will typically have a moderate to strong sulphur or “rotten egg” odor. This is not true in all circumstances, however, does appear to be the case in the majority of suspected cases. Other methods of inspection involve a simple removal of electrical coverplates and HVAC evaporator coils covers to visibly assess the condition of internal copper or aluminum wiring or tubing.
For a list of our Cooperative Inspection Team, visit http://www.defectivechinesedrywall.com/index.htm
There have been no formal health studies on the affects of exposure to toxic Chinese dry wall. However, some common denominators appear to present, as follow: nose bleeds, headaches, coughs, upper respiratory or sinus issues, rashes. The Chinese Drywall Complaint center believes that exposure to toxic Chinese drywall, or tainted US made drywall, and some of these medical symptoms are related, because homeowners in new homes in different parts of the country, different states, all share two things in common—the fact that Chinese drywall/poorly made US drywall is in their house, and they have these medical conditions. In many cases not everyone in the family will share the same symptoms.
Family pets may have died from exposure in US homes with Chinese toxic drywall especially in US States with high thresholds of heat and humidity. These US States include Florida, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Virginia, and Southeast Texas.
Testing for Chinese Drywall is currently not regulated by the Texas Dept of State Health Services although many testing methods are available. At Texas Real Estate Inspection Services, Inc., we have had a longtime relationship with several laboratories that offer testing for this substance. We would be pleased to assist you or your family and friends with inspection and diagnostic services to confirm or deny the presence of this substance.
You may contact our firm at 281-300-9276 for further information or fill out the contact information at the contact section and we will call to schedule an appointment.