What is Chinese Drywall?
Chinese drywall is a potentially toxic drywall manufactured in China which is used to construct interior walls of homes and businesses. The defective drywall is made from gypsum a natural material. The problem appear to be related to the presence of iron disulfide (FeS2 pyrite). Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), carbonyl sulfide, sulfur dioxide (SO2), and carbon disulfide (CS2) are also suspected as culprits.

How did it get to the United States?
The defective drywall arrived at nearly two dozen ports around the country, including posts in Louisiana, Florida, Texas, New York and California. Usually drywall comes from within the United States, however due to a shortage during the construction boom along the Gulf Coast in 2004 and 2005, many builders imported drywall from China. Knauf Plasterboard Tianjin Co. Ltd of China, a subsidiary of German based manufacturer Knauf, manufactured the drywall.

When was the Chinese drywall used in the U.S.?
This drywall was used in the United States after 2001.

How can I tell if Chinese drywall was used in my home?

• The house has to have been built or remodeled after 2000;
• There may be a presence of a strong sulfur odor in your home that would be described as one of the following: rotten eggs, the smell of a match that has been struck and blown out, or a bit like fireworks;
• You may have experienced repeated or continuous failures of your air conditioning coils, HVAC units, or other home appliances and electronics;
• You may have experienced repeated or continuous failures of your oven, or stove elements, or refrigerator coils;
• You may have seen corroded, or black electrical wiring in the walls, in properties built or remodeled since 2001;
• You may notice that silver jewelry or silver plated utensils may be tarnished;
• You may have experienced mild to severe upper respiratory problems, nose bleeds, headaches or other potentially serious medical conditions.

Are there health problems associated with Chinese drywall?
Long-term exposure to low levels of sulfides has also been associated with several health conditions including fatigue, loss of appetite, headaches, irritability, poor memory, dizziness, and reproductive issues.

Will Chinese drywall affect my property's resell value?
In an already difficult real estate market, perception is reality. Homes confirmed to have been built with contaminated Chinese drywall may be difficult if not impossible to sell.

Where can I find more information on Chinese drywall?
You can read more information on the toxic Chinese drywall on the internet by visiting homeownersconsumercenter.com