Chinese Drywall... we sort of hear about it from time to time, but what is it? Who has it?
Should YOU be worried about it?
First of all, what is is? Simply put, it is drywall made in China.
The problem is it seems to emmit a gas, which corrodes many metals and can be very damaging to your health. Click HERE to read one person's story.
If you do have it, what is the "fix"? Sadly, it means all the drywall must be removed from the home. it's not cheap, and so before you buy a home, check it out. If you find it, please follow the recommendations of the Virginia Dept of Health.
Where will you find it? Apparently Virginia has had a number of cases, although I'll admit I don't know of any in the Dulles area - the most well known are in the Hampton Roads area. But that doesn't mean it's not in our area.
A home might have Chinese Drywall IF....
* It was built or remodeled (new drywall hung) between 2003 and 2009.
* It has a sulphur like smell (smells like rotten eggs).
* Its wiring shows signs of corrosion.
* The Drywall is labeled "Made in China" (a CLEAR INDICATOR, but please note that if it doesn't say "Made in China" it may still be).
I thought this video contained some interesting information on finding out you have Chinese Drywall.
If you're thinking of buying a home built between 2003 and 2009, you are probably a wise buyer and already are planning to hire a home inspector. Make sure the inspector you're hiring understands Chinese Drywall and what to look for.
If you already own and are seeing some of these signs, you had better check it out....especially if you're family is getting very ill and no one is quite certain why. Watch the video if you haven't already. They even show you some simple tests you can do yourself.
It's frightening to think your house could possibly make you sick, but it happens. With Asbestos, Mold, Chinese Drywall and any number of other potential environmental hazards, when you're buying a home make sure that you do get a home inspector - a good one - who will be able to advise you of potential dangers and the cost to remediate or correct the problem.
