Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 8/18/2009

Question
Hi - I read a previous post regarding the rotten egg/sour bad odor that can come from a hopper. Yesterday we had texture sprayed on 1/4 of the rooms in our house. The entire house still smells - even after being aired out for the past 24 hours. Since no other step has taken place yet (paint) - is there something that should be done to remedy this smell first? Are there any long term issues I should be aware of?

Answer
Hi Robin, I get this question often.  Unfortunately I get the questions after the "sour" texture has already been sprayed. I don't know why these so called professionals can't keep their equipment clean and only mix what they can use in a 24 hour period.  When sour texture is used it must be allowed to dry completely through not just surface dried before painting.  I haven't heard of long term effects of sour mix as long as it dries completely and the bacteria causing the smell finally die off from lack of water.  

Another problem that has come to surface lately is Chinese Drywall that gives off a smell similar to what you are discribing and has been found to cause problems with the plumbing by eating away at copper piping and causing respiratory problems. Are you sure the smell is coming from the spray?  Chinese drywall is easy to spot.  It has Chinese markings on it.  

I hope this information helps, please feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com