Toxic sunroom

QUESTION:

Hi,

For 6 years I have been waiting for my sunroom to outgas or offgas enough that I can find it bearable to use without 9 windows open and a box fan running as an exhaust system through one of the windows. I often smell plastic smells and a chlorine type odor.

The MSDS sheets on everything make it sound wonderful, but that has not been my experience, as I have a burning throat, headaches, and trouble breathing if ever the windows are shut. Is it really legal in this country to sell a room like this? Must I really be out $15,000 and tear it down? There are expanded polystyrene walls which supposedly do not offgas, although I have my doubts.

I am less concerned with the formaldehyde containing wood products, as I have never been bothered longterm by them before, although maybe without adequate ventilation that could be an issue also. I have attempted to cover the vinyl wallcovering with Hard Seal and shellac, neither of which can stop the odor. I don't know the voc's which could be involved in vinyl wallcovering, and how toxic they might be. Finally they used a Vulkem 116 caulk which smells awful even after 6 years. I painted over it, but still the smell is emitted. Any ideas? I have a bruised head from banging my head against the wall for 6 years trying to fix this. Many thanks.

Kathy

POSTED BY KATHY :: WISCONSIN USA :: 08/31/2009 4:01 PM