Chinese Drywall Linked to Corrosion in Homes
Reports in the spring claimed that drywall made in China was causing health problems and corrosion on new buildings in Florida. A federal investigation has looked into the issue and recently issued a report. From the New York Times:
Federal investigators reported Monday that a “strong association” existed between chemicals contained in Chinese drywall and complaints by homeowners of corrosion in electrical wiring and metal.
In addition, investigators said they found a “possible” link between the hydrogen sulfide gas emitted from the imported drywall and reported health problems.
When combined with formaldehyde, which is common in new homes, hydrogen sulfide can cause many of the health problems reported by homeowners in several Southern states, the report said. In addition, investigators found that high humidity, high temperatures and poor air circulation were contributing factors.
The finding was released by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and is the second in a series of progress reports on an investigation into complaints by homeowners that their newly built houses were giving off a rotten egg odor and causing respiratory problems, and that their electrical systems and appliances were failing at abnormally fast rates.
