The Scandal of Sheetrock

Sheetrock is considered an ideal building material because it’s inexpensive and looks good. It has low VOCs, so it’s mostly free of harmful chemicals when it is produced (without paint).

Downsides:

1. Sheetrock can’t be inspected properly. It can hide potential water leaks, and make it difficult to inspect and repair plumbing.
2. Absorbs water quickly, releases water slowly. Many modern buildings don’t have efficient moisture control systems.
3. Sheetrock easily supports fungal growth, at 0.5% by weight. (Wood supports fungal growth at 15% moisture content).
4. Paint often contains anti-fungal chemicals. These chemicals make the toxicity of mold far more severe. This is because anti-fungal chemicals:
   • eliminate competitive species of other f.