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WHAT IS CHINESE DRYWALL? |
Chinese Drywall refers to defective or tainted drywall imported from China from 2001 to 2007 which
emits sulfur gasses which usually (but not always) create a noxious odor and corrode copper and
other metal surfaces, thereby damaging your air conditioner, electrical wiring, copper plumbing,
appliances and electronics. Chinese drywall can also cause adverse health effects, although experts
disagree whether these effects are merely irritants or present a more imminent or chronic health
hazard. Not all drywall manufactured in China is defective.
| THIS IS WHAT CHINESE DRYWALL IS DOING TO YOUR AIR CONDITIONER. WHAT IS IT DOING TO YOUR HEALTH? |
Hundreds of millions of sheets of Chinese drywall were imported from 2004 to 2006, but Chinese
drywall has recently been found in homes built or remodeled as early as 2001. Accordingly, this
phenomenon cannot be explained solely by the shortage of American-manufactured drywall. The
presence of Chinese drywall has been reported in 37 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico
is estimated to have been installed in over 100,000 homes in the United States. See Map.
Unfortunately, this does not paint an accurate picture as most affected homes have a mixture of safe
and tainted drywall.
Chinese drywall is 1/2" in width, although Lori A. Streit, Ph.D., from Unified Engineering, the same
compounds found in problematic Chinese drywall and the same gases released therefrom have also
been found in drywall measuring 5/8" (which is typically used in ceilings). Chinese drywall is typically
mixed in with untainted drywall, which is why people should not assume that their home is fine if they
find U.S. drywall. Moreover, U.S. drywall may have been manufactured in China and rebranded.
Does your home smell like rotten eggs or ammonia (sometimes a sweetish smell)? Is it more
noticeable when entering your home and then seems to dissipate? The level of odor varies greatly in
each home as does each person’s ability to detect the odor. Of course, the strength of the odor also
depends on how much drywall was used in the home. Significantly, some homeowners report no smell,
but their home clearly has Chinese drywall. In short, do not rely on your nose alone, particularly since
many develop olfactory fatigue after being exposed to Chinese drywall.
One of the telltale signs is corrosion/pitting of the air conditioner evaporator coils (which are located
inside the air handler). Many owners are first advised of a freon leak, and as the corrosion
progresses, evaporator coils eventually need replacement. An examination of the coils typically (but
not always) reveal a black sooty deposit, which may also appear on the freon line. Chinese drywall
also corrodes electrical wiring. After turning off the power (please be careful as you could get
shocked), check the electrical receptacles in your walls to see if the ground wires are blackened. The
wires in this photo have been corroded from Chinese drywall. Since many homes have mixed drywall
(i.e., good and bad drywall), not all ground wires will show blackening. There are also cases that are
not clear cut so please consult a qualified inspector.
Signs of an electrical problem include a circuit breaker which frequently needs resetting without an
apparent cause (particularly a GFCI or AFCI); lights that flicker without any apparent cause; bright
flashes or sparks anywhere in your electrical system (this may indicate arcing conditions in the wiring);
buzzing from electrical systems, switch plates, dimmers and outlet covers that are discolored from
overheating; and a smell from overheating plastic. See Florida Department of Health Case
Definition for Drywall Associated Corrosion in Residences.
COULD CHINESE DRYWALL BE IN MY HOME OR BUSINESS? |
| Evaporator coils that are less than 3 years old. |
| WELCOME TO CHINESEDRYWALL.COM |
| The first website dedicated to educating the public about Chinese drywall |
While the material source of the problem is known, a complete understanding of the cause of the
problem remains unknown, which is likely due in part because different mines were involved, there
were different manufacturing processes, and different types of construction and building materials
were used.
Initially, the most common theory was that the drywall was manufactured in gypsum mines in China
which used fly ash, a waste material that is a byproduct from power plants using coal. Samples of
Chinese drywall tested by United Engineering, however, consisted of 5-15% organic material, which
contradicts the theory that Chinese drywall was made of waste from coal fired power plants. It is
now believed that the tainted drywall from China comes from mined gypsum, not synthetic gypsum
which is made from coal ash. Mined gypsum contains high levels of strontium, which is visible as
inclusions in electron scanning microscopy.
Another theory is that Chinese drywall contains bacteria (possibly from the water source used to
manufacturer the drywall) which is degrading iron and sulfur compounds to produce sulfur odors,
although the CPSC's recent report disputes this theory.
problem remains unknown, which is likely due in part because different mines were involved, there
were different manufacturing processes, and different types of construction and building materials
were used.
Initially, the most common theory was that the drywall was manufactured in gypsum mines in China
which used fly ash, a waste material that is a byproduct from power plants using coal. Samples of
Chinese drywall tested by United Engineering, however, consisted of 5-15% organic material, which
contradicts the theory that Chinese drywall was made of waste from coal fired power plants. It is
now believed that the tainted drywall from China comes from mined gypsum, not synthetic gypsum
which is made from coal ash. Mined gypsum contains high levels of strontium, which is visible as
inclusions in electron scanning microscopy.
Another theory is that Chinese drywall contains bacteria (possibly from the water source used to
manufacturer the drywall) which is degrading iron and sulfur compounds to produce sulfur odors,
although the CPSC's recent report disputes this theory.
| IS THE DRYWALL DANGEROUS? |
There is no question that the gasses emitted from Chinese drywall corrode copper and metal
surfaces. Corrosion of electrical wiring may hamper the effectiveness of smoke detectors, which
clearly presents a safety concern. Low level arcing has also been observed in some homes with
Chinese drywall, which could cause an electrical fire. See CPSC Drywall Chamber Test Results.
Chinese drywall was found by Lawrence Berkley National Laboratories to emit hydrogen sulfide up to
100 times greater than non-Chinese produced drywall. Hydrogen sulfide is a hazardous gas which, in
high concentrations, can be fatal. There is also a strong association between hydrogen sulfide and
metal corrosion. See CPSC list of drywall manufacturers whose drywall has been found to emit the
high levels of hydrogen sulfide. Analytical testing of Chinese drywall samples have revealed strontium
sulfide, although there remains disagreement regarding whether strontium is a valid marker for
Chinese drywall. See Public Health Statement regarding Strontium; Statement Regarding Health
Effects. See also, EPA Drywall Sampling Analysis dated May 7, 2009).
According to Dr. Patricia Williams, a University of New Orleans toxicologist, highly toxic compounds
have been found in Chinese drywall and prolonged exposure to these compounds can cause serious
problems. Strontium sulfide may be dangerous to developing children; it affects bone growth.
Chronic exposure to these gases may affect the central nervous system (including visual and sensory
changes), cardiovascular system, eyes, kidneys, liver and skin. Infants, children, the elderly and
infirm (particularly those with heart and lung disease and diabetes) and pets may have an increased
vulnerability to these gases and the particulates that are released from the drywall. To date, the
Florida Department of Health still maintains that the levels found in Chinese drywall are not high
enough to present “an imminent or chronic health hazard at this time.” Many experts disagree.
Chinese drywall is very friable, which means it is in a state where small particles can easily become
dislodged with little friction. For this reason, even after Chinese drywall is removed, the toxic drywall
particulate may remain unless property removed. Further, the particulate from Chinese drywall may
invade and adhere to other building materials in the home's structure and personal objects within the
home. Thus, cross-contamination should be factored into any remediation protocol. According to the
Florida Department of Health, it is possible for gasses to absorb and re-emit from porous materials
such as drywall and fabrics. The effectiveness of cleaning these materials is currently unknown. It is
also unknown whether there is any effect on concrete and lumber.
WHAT IS THE SOURCE? |
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF CHINESE DRYWALL? |
| LATEST NEWS |
WHICH BRANDS ARE DEFECTIVE CLICK HERE TO SEE 35 TYPES OF DRYWALL MARKINGS |
BANNER EMAILS STATE THAT BUILDERS WERE
PANICKING ABOUT CHINESE DRYWALL IN 2006.
In November 2006, Banner Supply advised Knauf that two major builders,
WCI and GL, were forcing Banner to "take board that is stocked in houses
out and replace it with domestic." Apparently, neither Banner, the
installer or builders disclosed the problem to regulators or the public.
Knauf investigated the problem and released a report in 11/06. In early
2007, Banner and KPT entered into a settlement agreement. Click here
for letters and e-mails.
PANICKING ABOUT CHINESE DRYWALL IN 2006.
In November 2006, Banner Supply advised Knauf that two major builders,
WCI and GL, were forcing Banner to "take board that is stocked in houses
out and replace it with domestic." Apparently, neither Banner, the
installer or builders disclosed the problem to regulators or the public.
Knauf investigated the problem and released a report in 11/06. In early
2007, Banner and KPT entered into a settlement agreement. Click here
for letters and e-mails.
BEFORE YOU REMEDIATE YOUR HOME, PLEASE CONTACT AN ATTORNEY TO DISCUSS PUTTING YOUR BUILDER ON NOTICE BEFORE COMMENCING REPAIRS YOU MUST PRESERVE EVIDENCE IN ORDER TO PURSUE A CLAIM AGAINST THE DRYWALL MANUFACTURER. CLICK HERE |
| THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE WALKING AWAY FROM YOUR CHINESE DRYWALL PROPERTY. VISIT THE FAQs ON THE LEGAL CORNER |
| WHAT ABOUT CROSS-CONTAMINATION? |
| Florida Department of Health Frequently Asked Questions |
BUILDER AGREES TO PAY $6.6 MILLION
South Kendall Construction (which recently filed for Chapter 7
bankruptcy protection) and Keys Gate Realty have agreed to pay the
sum of $6.6 million to homeowners in Homestead, Florida.
KNAUF AGREES TO SETTLE TWO CASES
On the eve of trial, Knauf agreed to settle two Louisiana cases. The
settlement includes full removal and replacement of all drywall, the
entire electrical system and other components, along with out of pocket
expenses while the homes are being remediated. The repair costs will
be negotiated with the contractor. In addition, the owners will receive
out of pocket expenses and damages for personal property. Knauf will
pay the attorney's fees. Click here for article; Attorney Gary Mason
discusses legal significance and possible global settlement.
A BANNER DAY FOR DRYWALL VICTIMS
A Miami-Dade County jury awarded the Seifarts the sum of $2.4 million
on Friday, which includes remediation cost, loss of enjoyment, and
damages for stigma or diminished value. During the trial it was revealed
that Banner Supply knew the Chinese drywall was defective in 2006 and
had entered into a confidential settlement agreement with Knauf in early
2007, yet it failed to warn the public. The jury found Banner Supply 55%
liable; Knauf was found 35% liable and the shipper and distributor 5%
each even though they were not parties to the lawsuit.
South Kendall Construction (which recently filed for Chapter 7
bankruptcy protection) and Keys Gate Realty have agreed to pay the
sum of $6.6 million to homeowners in Homestead, Florida.
KNAUF AGREES TO SETTLE TWO CASES
On the eve of trial, Knauf agreed to settle two Louisiana cases. The
settlement includes full removal and replacement of all drywall, the
entire electrical system and other components, along with out of pocket
expenses while the homes are being remediated. The repair costs will
be negotiated with the contractor. In addition, the owners will receive
out of pocket expenses and damages for personal property. Knauf will
pay the attorney's fees. Click here for article; Attorney Gary Mason
discusses legal significance and possible global settlement.
A BANNER DAY FOR DRYWALL VICTIMS
A Miami-Dade County jury awarded the Seifarts the sum of $2.4 million
on Friday, which includes remediation cost, loss of enjoyment, and
damages for stigma or diminished value. During the trial it was revealed
that Banner Supply knew the Chinese drywall was defective in 2006 and
had entered into a confidential settlement agreement with Knauf in early
2007, yet it failed to warn the public. The jury found Banner Supply 55%
liable; Knauf was found 35% liable and the shipper and distributor 5%
each even though they were not parties to the lawsuit.
ANOTHER CHANCE TO FILE YOUR CLAIM IN THE MDL
On July 23rd, the Plaintiff's Steering Committee announced that
additional intervention complaints will be filed shortly, thus giving
homeowners another chance to file a claim in the MDL. Homeowners
are urged to contact an attorney to discuss their options.
THE SECRET TO GETTING A MORTGAGE
FORBEARANCE, BUT IS IT WORTH IT?
While Fannie Mae has agreed to provide temporary mortgage relief to
homeowners with Chinese drywall, getting in touch with someone
willing to help has been challenging. Homeowners should call (800)
732-6643 and select option 3. Ask to speak to someone about Fannie
Mae’s “unusual hardships policy for homeowners with problem
drywall.” Click here to review agency's new national policy.
Click here for Circular for Veteran's Benefit Administration.
Homeowners are cautioned to carefully review forbearance
agreements before signing as some lenders have recently added
unfavorable terms, including a requirement that the homeowner affirm
the balance of loan or waive certain defenses in the event of a
foreclosure. Some lenders are now requiring homeowners to agree
that all monies recovered in litigation will be made payable to both the
lender and homeowner, and that all monies will first be used for
remediation and not replacement of personal property.
On July 23rd, the Plaintiff's Steering Committee announced that
additional intervention complaints will be filed shortly, thus giving
homeowners another chance to file a claim in the MDL. Homeowners
are urged to contact an attorney to discuss their options.
THE SECRET TO GETTING A MORTGAGE
FORBEARANCE, BUT IS IT WORTH IT?
While Fannie Mae has agreed to provide temporary mortgage relief to
homeowners with Chinese drywall, getting in touch with someone
willing to help has been challenging. Homeowners should call (800)
732-6643 and select option 3. Ask to speak to someone about Fannie
Mae’s “unusual hardships policy for homeowners with problem
drywall.” Click here to review agency's new national policy.
Click here for Circular for Veteran's Benefit Administration.
Homeowners are cautioned to carefully review forbearance
agreements before signing as some lenders have recently added
unfavorable terms, including a requirement that the homeowner affirm
the balance of loan or waive certain defenses in the event of a
foreclosure. Some lenders are now requiring homeowners to agree
that all monies recovered in litigation will be made payable to both the
lender and homeowner, and that all monies will first be used for
remediation and not replacement of personal property.
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| Turnkey Chinese Drywall Removal & Restoration |
DOES CHINESE DRYWALL PRESENT A FIRE RISK?
Yes, according to a report on the CPSC's website. The report cites
several concerns, including deterioration of electrical connections that
could develop "hot spots resulting in overheating and possibly fire;”
damage to circuit tracers causing failure of protective devices such as
GFCIs, arc-fault circuit interrupters and smoke alarms, which can
present shock and fire hazards from the loss of protection; and
potential gas leakage due to corrosive pitting of piping, which could
present a fire or explosion hazard. Click here for full article.
Yes, according to a report on the CPSC's website. The report cites
several concerns, including deterioration of electrical connections that
could develop "hot spots resulting in overheating and possibly fire;”
damage to circuit tracers causing failure of protective devices such as
GFCIs, arc-fault circuit interrupters and smoke alarms, which can
present shock and fire hazards from the loss of protection; and
potential gas leakage due to corrosive pitting of piping, which could
present a fire or explosion hazard. Click here for full article.
| Talk to your attorney before you discard broken appliances, electronics or HVAC coils. . |
| This Month's Editorial Comment |
