How To Repair A Ceiling Damaged By Water

The most common causes for ceiling damage are leaky or burst pipes, a leaking bathtub or toilet, and roof leaks. Although water damage may appear as small spots on your ceiling, eventually your ceiling will fall. Our guide will help you fix ceiling water damage. If you need immediate assistant, please feel free to give us a call at 910-889-8086 and we’ll be there for you within 45 minutes.

Water Leakage From Your Ceiling:

A leaky roof, or plumbing problems are usually responsible for ceiling leakage. Water spots can turn yellowish-brown from slow leaks. Even though water spots on your ceiling might not seem to be an urgent matter, large leaks could quickly allow water to seep through the ceiling.

Plumbing Issues

Plumbing problems are the most common cause of ceiling leakage. The bathroom caulk can eventually wear away, allowing water penetration into the walls and drip onto the ceiling. In the summer and winter, pipes can sweat. Although this is rare, pipes and plumbing connections may leak. In rare cases, pipes and plumbing connections may burst or appliances could leak. It could be a leaky plumbing problem if the ceiling water damage is directly below a bathroom or kitchen.

Roof Leaks

Roof leaks are often caused by roof damage. This allows rainwater and snow-melt to get into your home. These leaks are common in spring and summer, but also in winter. From repeated freezing and melting snow, ice dams can form under your roof. This allows water to enter your roof. Roof damage is when water gets into your home through the attic and the eaves.

What Are The Signs Of Ceiling Water Damage?

Ceiling leaks are easy to detect. Water spots on the ceiling are common but water dripping or leaking is more dangerous. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to immediately locate the source of the leak. After repairing the leak, you must continue to repair ceiling water damage.

Water Leaks From The Ceiling

Leakage from the ceiling should be considered a serious problem. Leakages can usually be identified easily. You can check the plumbing for leaks and water overflows. If the roof is directly over it, look for any damaged shingles.

Sagging Ceiling


Leakage can also indicate a sagging ceiling. As water gets into the ceiling, it will weaken. The water will cause the ceilings to sag. Drop tile ceilings are the most common, but plaster and drywall ceilings can also be affected by water. Sagging ceilings are usually an indication of minor water damage or problems.

Cracking Plaster Or Peeling Paint

Another sign that a ceiling leak is occurring is peeling plaster or paint. This is most common when the ceiling is left wet. Over time, water can cause paint to bubble up and peel. When wet plaster shrinks and expands, cracks can occur.

Yellowish-Brown Water Spots

If you notice yellowish-brown water spots on the ceiling, it could also be a sign that there is a problem. These water spots are a sign that there is an issue. Rings may form if the water is leaking from a more distant source. Even if the ceiling appears dry, water spots can be a sign of a leak.

How to Repair Ceiling Water Damage

If the ceiling isn’t damaged, you might be able to dry it. Although you’ll still have to fix the source of the leak, it can save both money and time. Leakage from the ceiling will also be repaired.

1. Find And Fix The Leak


First, locate the source and repair it. If the source of the water leakage has not been identified, it is not a good idea for ceiling water damage to be repaired. If you don’t address the problem immediately, it will worsen.

2. Dry Out A Wet Ceiling

Next, dry the ceiling as quickly as possible. This will reduce damage and prevent mold growth. Ceiling fans are great, but it can take several days for your ceiling to dry. High-volume fans should be combined with a structural drying humidifier to speed up drying. These are available for rent from most equipment rental companies. The fans should be pointed towards the ceiling if possible. The dehumidifier should be placed under the ceiling. Dry the ceiling and wood joints. If you have the right equipment, a ceiling that has suffered water damage can be dried in six hours to a day. You shouldn’t rely on your touch or sight to tell if the ceiling is dry. You can instead use a moisture tester.

3. Ceiling Repair For Water Damage

Minor ceiling damage can often be repaired without the need to replace plaster or drywall. First, scrub the ceiling with a brush. The ceiling should be wiped with a damp cloth. Let it dry completely. You can repair small cracks or gaps with plaster or drywall cement. To fill small gaps less than 12 inch wide, use a putty knife to smoothen them. Fill in the larger gaps first and then sand them. If the ceiling is severely damaged, you will have to take out sections. You can use a box cutter or a drywall-saw to make straight cuts in drywall ceilings. Next, cut a small piece of drywall slightly smaller than your hole. Attach it to the joists. To seal the joints and smoothen your ceiling, apply mud to them. To plaster, you will need to replace the backing material or lathe. Allow the plaster to dry between thin layers. Layer until each section has the same texture as the original.

4. Seal And Paint

Once the plaster or mud is dry, you can apply a sealing primer to the area. It will prevent water spots and stains from coming back, as well as preventing ceiling paint from absorption. If it isn’t primed, it will need many more coats. Make sure to apply your primer at least twice before applying your topcoat. To cover small areas, you can feather the topcoat with the old paint. It is easier to paint ceilings in larger sections.

Who To Call For Ceiling Leak Repairs In Fayetteville?

Do not try to fix ceilings yourself. If you’re unable to do so quickly, it is best to hire a water restoration company. They have the equipment necessary to quickly fix ceiling water damage. If you have ceiling water damage, call 911 Restoration of Fayetteville. Call at  910-889-8086 for a fast and reliable estimate and water damage repair.