Unfortunately, one of the most common materials that we use in modern home construction to sheath interior walls can also be one of the ones that has the most potential to cause health problems. Gypsum board is composed of natural gypsum sandwiched between two sheets of cardboard that are made from recycled newsprint.
This cardboard backing creates some problems when water damage occurs because it is a nutrient that encourages mold growth. Experts have recorded instances where mold growth starts less than 72 hours after water damage first occurs. However, beyond the threat of mold, there are other reasons that the installation of gypsum board as a standard practice may affect indoor air quality.
Dust and debris within the wall cavities can often become trapped when drywall is installed. If these elements are not cleaned out they can become a problem over time. Dust, for example, can eventually work its way back into the living space where it can become a problem over time as well as an air pollutant, and other construction materials that have become trapped can become a breeding ground for mold over time if they become wet.
As well, there are other problems associated with this material that might not be readily apparent at first. The drywall itself may release gas from the drying ink in the recycled newsprint. In order to seal in the small amounts of gas that are generated by the drywall, the walls may be primed with a special paint that is available at your home renovation stores.
You need to remember too, that the standard premixed joint compounds may contain several undesirable chemicals including formaldehyde. It’s also important to consider the fact that drywall is absorbent like plaster. In standard practice, gas and kerosene heaters may be used to dry the joint compounds and the byproducts of this combustion are absorbed into the walls and these gases will later leak into the finished home.
There are some solutions, however. Special gypsum boards have been designed for use in places where there is a high concentration of moisture like bathrooms and showers, but remember that when these places are taken apart after several years, the spots between the joints are often still moldy. There are things that you can do to avoid these problems and at least one of them is relatively simple.
All wall cavities should be cleaned before you install the gypsum. It’s best to hepa-vacuum these areas out so that you’re sure to be rid of any of the containments that might be stuck between the walls. As well, all heaters that are fueled with gasoline or kerosene should be banned from the workspace.
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