FAQ's: Chinese Drywall

What is Chinese drywall?

Why is Chinese drywall dangerous?

How can I tell if my home has a drywall problem?

Who manufactures the defective drywall and how can I inspect my home for its presence?

Can Chinese drywall affect my family's health?

What is Chinese drywall?

Chinese drywall is a wide flat board used to construct the interior walls of homes. It is also known as wallboard, gypsum board, or plasterboard. Though normally manufactured in the United States, a shortage of drywall following a number of hurricanes prompted many home builders to obtain drywall from China between 2004 and 2006.

Why is Chinese drywall dangerous?

Chinese drywall has been reported to emit sulfur-based gases which create noxious odors and corrode copper and other metals in the home, often causing household systems and appliances to fail. It is believed that heat and humidity trigger the migration of these gases into the air. As a result, many homeowners have had to evacuate their homes and have spent thousands of dollars to repair and replace electrical wiring, heating and air conditioning systems, and appliances damaged or destroyed by these sulfur emissions. Many affected homeowners now worry that the drywall problems will reduce their property values and hinder their ability to sell the homes.

How can I tell if my home has a drywall problem?

Owners of homes constructed with Chinese drywall have complained of strong pungent odors similar to that of rotten eggs or ammonia. Electrical systems and appliances often fail, with air conditioner coils, electrical wiring, copper and other metals typically appearing corroded or black in color. Additionally, silver items such as jewelry, picture frames, and light fixtures can also appear blackened or tarnished.

Who manufactures the defective drywall and how can I inspect my home for its presence?

The quickest way to determine if you have a defective drywall problem is to contact your home builder and inquire about the materials used in construction. The home builders, Lennar Homes and Taylor Morrison, have had the most reports of defective Chinese drywall, although other builders are thought to have used these products as well.

Knauf Plasterboard, Tianjin Co., appears to be a manufacturer of a large portion of the defective drywall. The manufacturer's mark, "KNAUF," may be written on the back side of the drywall. In some instances the markings are visible in the home's attic.

Can Chinese drywall affect my family's health?

Some consumers have experienced health problems such as irritated eyes, respiratory problems, asthma attacks, persistent cough, nausea, nose bleeds and headaches. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is still investigating reported health concerns to determine whether there are any long-term health effects following exposure to defective Chinese drywall. Some health officials have expressed concern that the drywall fumes could be especially dangerous to the very young and elderly populations. People with asthma and chemical sensitivities could also be at greater risk.

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