**Denver Drywall: Is New Construction Hiding Winter Asthma?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe crisp Denver air bites at your cheeks, a familiar sting that signals the start of another long winter. But for some, the cold brings more than just rosy cheeks; it brings a tightening in the chest, a persistent cough, and the nagging fear that their home, their sanctuary, is making them sick. This isn’t just about the altitude; it could be something far more insidious lurking within the walls: Chinese drywall.
Denver’s rapid growth in the early 2000s saw a construction boom, and with it, the potential for compromised building materials to slip through the cracks. One of the most concerning was “Chinese drywall,” imported to meet demand when domestic supplies were short. This drywall, often emitting sulfurous gases, can wreak havoc on your health and your home. And the problem is exacerbated in winter, when closed windows and cranked-up furnaces trap these gases inside, turning your house into a toxic box.
So, how do you know if your Denver home, especially if built or renovated between 2001 and 2009, might be harboring this hidden danger? And more importantly, what can you do about it to protect your health and your investment?
First, let’s talk about the telltale signs. Forget fancy lab tests for a moment; your nose and eyes are your first line of defense.
The “Rotten Egg” Smell: This is the most common and often the most obvious indicator. It’s a sulfurous odor, often described as rotten eggs or a burning match. It might be faint at first, but it will likely become more noticeable in enclosed spaces like closets, bathrooms, or basements, especially when the furnace is running.
Corrosion of Metals: Look for blackening or corrosion of copper wiring, air conditioning coils, and even jewelry. This is caused by the hydrogen sulfide gas emitted by the drywall reacting with the metal. Check electrical outlets, switch plates, and the back of appliances. A quick peek inside your electrical panel (if you’re comfortable and qualified to do so – otherwise, call an electrician!) can reveal significant corrosion.
HVAC System Issues: Are you experiencing frequent breakdowns or reduced efficiency with your air conditioner or furnace? The corrosive gases can damage the coils and other components, leading to costly repairs.
Health Symptoms: This is where it gets personal. Are you experiencing unexplained respiratory problems, such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or asthma exacerbations? Do you have persistent headaches, eye irritation, or sinus infections? While these symptoms can be caused by many things, if they coincide with the other signs, Chinese drywall should be a strong suspect. Denver’s dry air already presents challenges for respiratory health; tainted drywall only compounds the problem.
Now, let’s say you’ve noticed some of these signs. What’s next? Don’t panic, but don’t ignore it either. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
Visual Inspection: Go room by room, paying close attention to the drywall. Look for discoloration, crumbling, or a yellowish tint. Check behind outlet covers and switch plates for blackening of the wiring.
The Copper Wire Test: This is a simple, DIY test. Wrap a length of bare copper wire around a pipe or other metal object in an area you suspect is affected. Leave it for a few days, then check for blackening or corrosion. Compare it to a control sample of copper wire kept in a clean, unaffected area.
Professional Testing: For definitive confirmation, you’ll need to hire a qualified environmental testing company. They can take samples of your drywall and analyze them for the presence of specific compounds associated with Chinese drywall. Look for companies in the Denver area that have experience with this specific issue.
Remediation: If the tests confirm the presence of Chinese drywall, remediation is necessary. This is a major undertaking that involves removing all the affected drywall and replacing it with safe, compliant materials. It’s crucial to hire a licensed and experienced contractor who understands the proper procedures for handling and disposing of the tainted drywall. This isn’t a DIY project.
Legal Recourse: Depending on the circumstances, you may have legal options. If you purchased a new home with undisclosed Chinese drywall, you may be able to pursue a claim against the builder or seller. Consult with a qualified attorney in Denver who specializes in construction defect litigation.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them:
Ignoring the Problem: This is the biggest mistake. The longer you wait, the worse the problem will become, both for your health and the value of your home.
DIY Remediation: Removing and replacing drywall is a complex and potentially hazardous task. You could expose yourself to harmful gases and improperly dispose of the tainted materials, creating further problems.
Hiring an Unqualified Contractor: Make sure the contractor you hire has experience with Chinese drywall remediation and is properly licensed and insured. Check their references and ask for proof of insurance.
Failing to Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all your inspections, tests, and remediation efforts. This documentation will be essential if you need to pursue legal action or file an insurance claim.
Denver-Specific Resources:
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE): While they don’t directly test for Chinese drywall, they can provide information on indoor air quality and potential health hazards.
Better Business Bureau (BBB) of Denver: Check the ratings and reviews of contractors and testing companies.
Local Attorneys: Search for attorneys in Denver specializing in construction defect and real estate litigation.
Home Inspector Associations: Find qualified home inspectors in the Denver area who can assess your home for potential problems.
Living in Denver offers incredible opportunities, from breathtaking mountain views to a vibrant cultural scene. Don’t let the specter of Chinese drywall cast a shadow over your home and your health. By being proactive, informed, and taking the necessary steps, you can ensure that your Denver home remains a safe and healthy haven for you and your family, even when the winter winds howl outside. Remember, early detection and proper remediation are key to mitigating the risks and protecting your investment.