If you have leaks or water damage in your ceiling, there are certain telltale signs that you will be able to spot, if you know what you’re looking for. Water damage needs to be dealt with right away, especially when it happens to your roof. This is why identifying the damage quickly is so important.
Here are some signs that it is water damage:
- Discoloration and spots in the ceiling paint – usually yellow, brown or copper colored
- Peeling, cracking or bubbling surfaces on the ceiling or walls
- Smells of mildew or mold
- Other stains on the ceiling, often circular
- Bulging or sagging ceiling
- Bulging or stained drywall
- Wetness or dampness on the ceiling
- Actually seeing water dripping through
If a big rainstorm has just hit your area and water is leaking through your roof, or if you’re just noticing some discoloration on the paint of the ceilings, you need to take it seriously. Water damage gets worse over time and it’s essential you identify it so you can get it repaired right away.
Left untreated, water damage in your ceiling can lead to mold, structure weakness, and even total roof collapse.
How to tell where the water is coming from:
- If the signs of water damage are happening on the top floor of the home, it would be roof damage.
- If the water damage is happening on interior floors of the home, it could be leaky or damaged pipes running in between the two floors, or it could be from an upstairs bathroom.
Trying to determine where the water is coming from so that you can stop it to minimize damage is very important. If it’s not obvious to you right away where the water is coming from, you need to call a professional to diagnose and to help with water remediation, drying, and repairing the damage.
These tips will help you know if your ceiling has water damage. If you suspect water damage at all, especially in your roof, then you should call a professional right away.