How To Repair A Water Damaged Ceiling
We know that in our homes, we will have some issues. No home stays perfect for all the years we live in it. Over time, things such as caulking need to be redone, there are cracks in tiles from settling of the home, or even the pool needs to be repainted. However, one of the last things we want to see is a water-damaged ceiling. How to repair a water-damaged ceiling? Identify the problem, shut off the water, and begin repairing the obvious signs of distress.
Let’s take a look below at the steps you should take to fix your water-damaged ceiling.
What Are The Signs
Some of the obvious signs of water damage can be very simple. Watermarks on the ceiling, peeling or flaking paint, and even completely disintegrated drywall are clear indications that water damage has occurred. Let’s take a look below at some of the signs.
- Ceiling mark is brown.
- Ceiling is wet.
- Insulation in your attic is wet.
Understanding that the watermarks could be caused by leaking pipes is also important. In some two-story homes, you might experience a frozen pipe or a busted pipe. In these cases, you will begin to notice watermarks on your first-floor ceiling. This is a good time to follow up with your local home inspector.
What Are My Steps
Just like any other project, there is a step-by-step process for fixing any water damage to a ceiling. Let’s take a look below at the most common ways to repair a water-damaged ceiling.
- Sometimes when we are sitting in our living room, we may look up at the ceiling for a minute. Other than that, it may not be very often, unless we are hanging light or there is a noticeable discoloration. In addition to discoloration, you may see blistering, paint that is peeling or even bulging. This means there is water damage. Unfortunately, this probably means there is more where that came from and there could be mold growth or structural damage. If you can find out where the source that is causing it, then you can hopefully fix the problem. It is a good idea to contact a home inspection company that can help find the issue and assess the damage.
- Leaks in the ceiling usually come from either the roof or the plumbing. Water damage below the attic or roof means the roof has been damaged. The damage may be from an ice dam in the winter or hail from a storm. Chimney has damage or is aging Clogging of gutters on the roof.
- The moment that you have identified the damaged ceiling, you will want to repair it. Also, make sure to put on goggles to protect your eyes and a drop cloth to protect the flooring below. Make sure that you dry the area first to ensure no mold grows in the future. Once the area is dried, you can begin cutting out the old damaged pieces and install the new drywall pieces. Make sure to measure the area that needs replacing, and cut out the old area. Then screw in the new piece or pieces, tape the joints and mud the joints to ensure the new pieces are sealed tight.
What If The Water Damage Is Not From The Ceiling
When you are looking into what caused the water damage to your ceiling, also keep in mind that the walls could be a factor. If there is water in the walls, you will notice the following:
- Mold and Mildew
- Water spots when it rains
- Running water noises
- Cracking and bubbling on the walls
- Dark and wet spots
- Water Bill increases
- Musty and Damp smells
How Much Does It Cost
Depending upon the type of damage to the ceiling will determine the cost to make the repair. On average, a water-damaged ceiling repair can cost between $45 and $55 per square foot. However, if there are additional repairs, such as plumbing, that cost goes way up. You can imagine an investment of close to $3,000 to repair a water damaged ceiling if the plumbing is involved.
Other Recommended Maintenance
If you don’t have an attic, you may have a roof leak and not know where it is coming from. If you grab a ladder, a garden hose, and a pry bar, you can look to see if it is coming through the shingles. Checking for rotted wood while doing this is a good idea so you may be able to pinpoint where the issue is.
After a hail storm, take a look at the roof to see if there is any damage. If you see dents, dings, bruising, missing shingles, or exposed matting, you may have damage. Additionally, this will be a good time to call a licensed roofing contractor, home inspection company and insurance adjuster to take a look at roof and to assess the damage.
Lastly, if you are in the market for a new roof, there are a variety of materials used. Many people like metal roofs and the good news is that they don’t attract lightning. Metal roofs can protect your home from the heat of the lighting strike and the electrical current since it is not combustible.
When Do I Call A Professional
Finding a leak that causes damage to your ceiling is not fun for any homeowner. However, identifying the exact location of the water leak can be difficult. So, before you go and stress out about finding the leak that caused water damage to your ceiling, go ahead and call on a professional. If you aren’t sure who to contact, reach out to your local home inspection team to identify the problem. Also, they can refer you to the most reputable local professionally licensed contractor to handle your repair needs.
Conclusion
Any homeowner that doesn’t understand what a wet ceiling looks like should reach out to their local home inspection team. The moment that you notice a watermark or paint peeling from your ceiling is the moment that you should call on a professional. Having to fix any water damage to your ceiling is not the easiest project to do. Never be afraid to reach out to your local home inspection team to inspect all of your home project concerns. Not only will you need a ceiling repair, but you might also need roofing or plumbing repair. Your local home inspection team can take care of this for you. Reach out to Colorado Inspection Team can take a look at your ceiling during a home inspection in Castlerock, CO, and the Front Range areas.
