According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) test results released on May 19th, the Chinese drywall that had been tested was found to contain strontium “at levels 10 times as high as in drywall made in the United States, and two other organic compounds usually found in acrylic paint that aren’t in drywall made here,” said Karen M. Scott, a drywall expert.
The next EPA report is expected to be released in late June. For homeowners suffering from Chinese drywall that has been emitting fumes, there is no immediate relief. The only action available to take right now is contacting government agencies. Scott recommended in a seminar hosted by Indian River State College that homeowners also consider consulting an attorney.
It is still unclear whether the tainted drywall affects surrounding drywall that is untainted. Therefore, experts are not sure if simply replacing the Chinese drywall will solve the problem. Also, experts do not know if all copper and silver metal in the house will have to be replaced as well before a home is taint-free.
The Chinese drywall was installed in U.S. homes from 2001 to 2008. There have been some complaints over the years, but the number grew exponentially after the media began reporting the drywall issue in December 2008.
Researchers are still looking for a connection between health issues in humans and pets and the tainted drywall. Scott told the group at the seminar that until researchers determine the definite connection, they are better off making a defective product claim than a health claim.
