Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 11/30/2008

Question
Followup to last night's question:  I went to Home Depot to buy more paint and the guy at the paint counter said we should not have sealed the texture w/ oil-based kills earlier than 30-days after the texture was put in.  He said since we are using kitchen and bath paint throughout (w/ anti-mildew properties), we should be okay on the outside, but that we potentially trapped moisture (the texture was only dry for 72 hours)inside the wall, which could have long-term adverse effects (i.e. mold and mildew).  The texture guy claims he did prime the sheet rock before texturing, but I do not know what with.  How do I know if I have issues or not?  I am allergic to mold (not to mention that it's not good for you anyway).  I am frustrated, because carpet and floors are to be delivered and installed in the next week.....do we put all of this off and rip it all out??????

Answer
Hi Kimberley, you definitely want to reconsider your carpet and flooring schedule until you get this odor problem settled.  You really don't want to be re texturing and messing with drywall over your new carpet.   I hope this information helps feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com