
Since leaking water naturally flows downward inside a structure, ceilings sometimes get in the way and water damage occurs. Homes with leaky roofs, or multi-story houses with bathrooms or laundry rooms on an upper floor, provide a starting point for leaking water on its way downward. When it contacts drywall ceiling panels, ugly stains and deterioration of the ceiling—usually swelling and sagging—typically occurs.
If you are considering attempting DIY ceiling water damage repair, consider the following issues first:
- Cosmetic ceiling repairs, i.e., simply painting over an ugly water stain, are not a conclusive solution. First, the source of the water damage has to be identified and repaired. If the origin is an upstairs bathroom, a considerable portion of the damaged ceiling below will likely have to be cut out in order to access and repair plumbing beneath the bathroom floor, as well as the underside of the bathtub, shower stall, etc. For most do-it-yourselfers, this is a job best left to a professional.
- Because wet drywall is not structurally sound and cannot support its own weight, swollen, water-damaged ceiling panels may be problematic to remove and repair without special equipment and multiple workers. Even if the leak is repaired and the ceiling panel dries, any part of the ceiling that has been saturated is never reliably stable again and may further deteriorate and/or collapse.
- Signs of ceiling damage due to water also may mean that mold contamination is affecting one or more ceiling panels and other parts of the adjacent structure. In a typical residence, ceiling panels made of gypsum drywall readily absorb and retain water. This source of moisture rapidly triggers mold growth within the material and throughout the space above the ceiling.
What To Do About Ceiling Water Damage?
If water is actively dripping through the ceiling, cut a small drain hole in the center of the area where the leakage is occurring. Place a bucket underneath to catch the water. This enhanced drainage helps contain the spread of water to adjacent panels until plumbing and water damage recovery professionals can repair and remediate the damage.