Albuquerque Air: Is "Green" Drywall Fueling Lungs?
By Franklin Everett ShawIt started with a sniffle, then a cough. Soon, the whole family in their brand new Albuquerque home was experiencing similar symptoms: irritated eyes, persistent coughs, and a general feeling of malaise. They blamed the desert air, allergies, anything but the walls around them. But what if the walls themselves were the problem?
The culprit might be something called “problem drywall,” specifically imported from China and used in some homes built after 2005. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about your health and the air you breathe in your Albuquerque home. Let’s dive into how to identify this issue, what risks it poses, and what you can do about it, right here in New Mexico.
Identifying Problem Drywall: A DIY Detective Kit
The first step is to determine if you even have potentially problematic drywall. This isn’t always easy, but here’s a checklist to get you started:
Construction Date: Was your home built or renovated between 2005 and 2009? This is the prime window when the suspect drywall was imported. Homes in Albuquerque’s newer developments, like those in the Rio Rancho area or the far Northeast Heights, are more likely to be affected.
Visual Inspection: Look for these telltale signs:
- Blackening of Copper: Check electrical wiring, especially around outlets and in your attic. If the copper is unusually blackened or corroded, it’s a red flag. This is due to sulfurous gases emitted by the drywall reacting with the copper.
- Sulfur Smell: A persistent “rotten egg” or sulfur-like odor, especially in enclosed spaces like closets or bathrooms, is a strong indicator. This smell is more noticeable during periods of high humidity, common during Albuquerque’s monsoon season.
- Drywall Markings: While not always present, look for markings on the back of the drywall sheets. Some of the Chinese manufacturers used specific stamps or labels. However, this is not a reliable indicator on its own, as not all problem drywall was clearly marked.
Appliance Failures: Have you experienced premature failures of appliances like air conditioners or refrigerators? The corrosive gases from the drywall can damage the copper coils in these appliances, leading to breakdowns.
The Health Risks: More Than Just a Sniffle
The health effects of problem drywall are not to be taken lightly. While symptoms can vary from person to person, common complaints include:
- Respiratory Issues: Coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and aggravated asthma. Albuquerque’s already dry air can exacerbate these issues.
- Eye, Nose, and Throat Irritation: Burning sensations, runny nose, and sore throat.
- Headaches and Fatigue: Persistent headaches and a general feeling of tiredness.
- Sinus Problems: Increased sinus infections and congestion.
These symptoms can significantly impact your quality of life and, in some cases, lead to more serious health problems, especially for vulnerable populations like children and the elderly.
Testing Your Home: Calling in the Professionals
If you suspect you have problem drywall, the next step is to get a professional inspection. Don’t rely solely on DIY tests; a certified inspector can provide a definitive answer.
Finding Certified Inspectors in Albuquerque: Look for inspectors certified by organizations like the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) or those with specific experience in identifying and testing for problem drywall. Ask for references and check online reviews. Local Albuquerque-based companies specializing in environmental testing are your best bet.
What to Expect During an Inspection: The inspector will conduct a thorough visual inspection, looking for the signs mentioned earlier. They may also take air samples to test for the presence of sulfurous gases. In some cases, they may need to remove small sections of drywall to examine the back and identify any markings.
Understanding the Results: The inspector will provide a report detailing their findings. If problem drywall is confirmed, the report will outline the extent of the contamination and recommend remediation options.
Legal Recourse in New Mexico: Know Your Rights
If you’ve confirmed the presence of problem drywall in your Albuquerque home, you may have legal options. New Mexico law provides certain protections for homeowners in these situations.
Statute of Limitations: Be aware of the statute of limitations for filing a claim. This is the time limit you have to take legal action. Consult with an attorney to understand the specific deadlines in your case.
Potential Claims: You may be able to file a claim against the builder, developer, or supplier of the drywall. Potential damages you can recover include the cost of remediation, property damage, and medical expenses.
Finding a Lawyer: Look for a New Mexico attorney with experience in construction defect litigation and specifically with problem drywall cases. The New Mexico State Bar can provide referrals.
Mitigation and Remediation: Taking Action
If your home tests positive for problem drywall, remediation is essential. This is a complex process that should be handled by qualified professionals.
Removal and Replacement: The most effective solution is to remove all of the affected drywall and replace it with new, safe drywall. This is a major undertaking that can be costly, but it’s the only way to completely eliminate the source of the contamination.
Electrical System Inspection: Have your electrical system inspected by a qualified electrician. The corrosive gases from the drywall can damage wiring and components, creating a fire hazard.
HVAC System Cleaning: Clean and inspect your HVAC system to remove any contaminants that may have accumulated. Consider replacing the air conditioning coils if they show signs of corrosion.
Ventilation: Increase ventilation in your home to help remove any residual gases. Open windows and use fans to circulate air.
Common Mistakes and Pitfalls
Ignoring the Problem: The biggest mistake is to ignore the problem and hope it goes away. Problem drywall doesn’t get better with time; it gets worse.
DIY Remediation: Attempting to remediate the problem yourself can be dangerous and ineffective. It’s crucial to hire qualified professionals who have the experience and equipment to do the job safely and properly.
Not Testing: Relying on anecdotal evidence or assumptions without proper testing can lead to incorrect conclusions. Get a professional inspection to confirm the presence of problem drywall.
Delaying Legal Action: Waiting too long to consult with an attorney can jeopardize your legal options. Be aware of the statute of limitations and take action promptly.
Real-World Scenario: The Smith Family of Rio Rancho
The Smith family in Rio Rancho noticed a persistent sulfur smell in their home, built in 2007. They initially dismissed it as a plumbing issue, but the smell persisted. After researching online, they suspected problem drywall and hired a certified inspector. The inspection confirmed the presence of contaminated drywall throughout their home. They contacted an attorney and filed a claim against the builder. While the legal process was lengthy, they eventually received compensation to cover the cost of remediation.
Protecting Your Albuquerque Home and Health
Problem drywall is a serious issue that can affect the health and well-being of Albuquerque residents. By understanding the signs, risks, and available resources, you can take proactive steps to protect your home and your family. Don’t wait; take action today to ensure a safe and healthy living environment in your Albuquerque home. Remember, knowledge is power, and in this case, it could be the key to breathing easier.