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Complete this form and we will contact you as soon as possible.
For emergencies call: 317-788-0911
It seems like water stains on ceilings appear out of the blue, but they likely are due to deeper issues that finally made their way to the surface.
Some of the most common causes of water stains on walls and ceilings include leaks, condensation and HVAC issues.
Let’s take a closer look at the sources of these issues and howto fix them.
If you have leaks, you may be tempted to address the immediate issue, but “band-aiding” the problem does not address the cause. The issue will only come back, so it’s important to identify the sources of the leaks and repair them as soon as possible.
Water can leak onto your ceilings and into your home in a number of ways.
A damaged or worn roof can allow water to seep into your home,leading to ceiling stains, especially after heavy rainfall or snow.
Fixing It: Inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles, gaps or cracks. Hire a roofer to fix any issues. Afterward, scrape off any peeling paint, remove any damaged drywall and replace them with new drywall and paint.
Pipes running through the ceiling, especially from bathrooms or kitchens, may develop leaks due to age, corrosion or damage, resulting in water stains.
Fixing It: To determine if you have piping issues, listen for sounds of damaged pipes. They often make a persistent popping or dripping sound.Hire a plumber to further identify the source of the damage and repair or replace the pipes. The source is commonly in the bathroom or kitchen above the stained ceiling. Complete surface repairs after the plumbing issues are addressed.
If gutters are blocked or improperly installed, water can overflow and seep into the walls and ceilings.
Fixing It: To avoid this issue, clean and remove debris and leaves out of your gutters throughout the year, particularly in the spring and fall. If water stains have already appeared on ceilings due to this issue, contact a professional contractor to repair the gutters and identify any leaks that maybe seeping into your home.
In colder climates, ice dams on the roof can cause water to back up under the shingles and leak into the house, leading to water stains on the ceilings.
Fixing It: To prevent ice damming, keep your gutters clean, install a self-regulating heating cable system, rake your roof after each heavy snowfall and ensure that your attic has proper insulation and ventilation. If ice dams have already formed, hire a contractor to remove them and address issues. You may also wish to apply calcium-based chemical deicers. Do not use rock salt, as this can further damage your roof.
Poorly sealed windows or those exposed to heavy rain can allow water to seep into walls, eventually staining the ceiling.
Fixing It: Consider replacing your outdated windows, specifically with multi-paned windows, which reduce condensation.
Some of the stains on ceilings could be due to cooking, smoking or the use of household chemicals.
Fixing It: Gently clean the ceiling using a clean, microfiber cloth and spray bottle containing a 1:1 solution of vinegar and water. Be sure to use safety precautions when using ladders, and wear goggles and face masks when using chemicals overhead.
In areas with poor ventilation, condensation from humid air can accumulate on the ceiling, particularly in bathrooms or attics, causing stains over time.
Fixing It: To avoid water stains on ceilings due to condensation, improve ventilation in the affected area. Install a fan or dehumidifier to reduce moisture buildup. If stains have already formed, scrape off any peeling paint and dry the area. Clean the area with a solution of water and bleach (5 tablespoons of bleach per gallon of water) to remove any mildew or mold caused by moisture.
Then, use a high-quality, oil-based or shellac-based stain-blocking primer to cover the water stain. After it dries, repaint the ceiling.
If an air conditioning unit or ductwork located in the attic leaks or has excess condensation, it can result in water damage to the ceiling. Vents and air ducts may also be “sweating,” or they may be blocked, leading a variety of problems.
Fixing It: Contact an HVAC technician to inspect your system. Once issues are addressed, perform cosmetic repairs as noted above.
If your home or business has been damaged by water or mold, contact us for repairs, mitigation or remediation services.
When you choose Hays + Sons for roof repairs or replacement, you can have peace of mind in knowing that you have selected an Owens Corning Preferred Roofing Contractor. Because Owens Corning offers the most reliable materials on the market, you can feel confident in the durability and longevity of your roof.
For more information, send us a message through our website or call 800-536-4056.