Adverse Effects From Drywall

Causes of Contaminated Drywall

• The gypsum used to produce drywall is typically mined but occasionally is produced synthetically from limestone and gases from coal-fired power plants. The gas used to synthesize the gypsum must be filtered to remove sulfur and other harmful compounds from the product. With the imported drywall in question, it is likely that the sulfur was not properly filtered out of the synthetic gypsum, causing chemical reactions when the sulfur comes into contact with certain kinds of metal such as copper.

Health Effects from Contaminated Drywall

• When drywall contains sulfur, it reacts with the copper present in light fixtures, electrical wiring and appliances that come into contact with the drywall. According to a 2009 report by the Environmental Protection Agency, this can release chlorofluorocarbons and other gases that lower the air quality of the home. These gases have been connected to health complications such as asthma, coughing, eye irritation, headaches, breathing difficulties, and insomnia. Additionally, the sulfur can causes a nauseating smell.

Problems from Corrosion

• When drywall contaminated with sulfur, it can cause many problems with appliances and wiring in the home. If the sulfur corrodes air conditioner evaporator coils, for example, refrigerant can leak and the air conditioner cannot properly cool the home until the coils are replaced. Corrosion can also damage electrical wires, copper pipes used for plumbing, copper and chrome bathroom fixtures and even jewelry that comes into contact with the drywall.

What to Do If You Have Contaminated Drywall

• If you frequently notice a rotten egg smell in your house and notice metal corrosion on surfaces in contact with drywall, call an environmental consultant or home inspector to evaluate the drywall in your home. You can also contact a plumber, electrician, or air-conditioning technician to respond to specific problems caused by contaminated drywall. While there is no known treatment to remove the sulfur from the drywall in your home, licensed technicians can help you reduce corrosion to wires, pipes and appliances and recommend steps to take if contaminated drywall is found in your home.