Most ceiling leaks are persistent, not one-off or isolated problems.
The leak does pass through the ceiling, but it can also continue anddrip down walls.
Bubbled Paint
Bubbledceiling paintis often a sign of a ceiling leak.
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Interior latex paint is sturdy enough to hold in water, much like a balloon.
So, the water passes through the ceiling drywall or plaster and is held back by the paint layer.
It may smellmildewyor even rancid.
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Or, the water might be clear and odor-free.
Ceiling patches may even indicate previous ceiling leaks.
Tip
Ceiling condensation isnota ceiling leak, though the two can be confused for each other.
Ceiling condensation is the result of poorly ventilated bathrooms, kitchens, or laundry rooms.
Climbing ladders into attics or onto roofs may cause you to fall.
Falls are a leading cause of household injuries or death.
Eliminate condensation as the cause of the ceiling leak.
If condensation is the source, add an exhaust fan or run adehumidifier.
The leak may not necessarily be directly above the fixture.
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Instead, the fixture is the lowest point on the ceiling, so it collects water.
The tops of kitchen wall cabinets, too, act as collectors for water leaks.
Roll up fiberglass insulation batts.
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For loose-fill cellulose insulation, scoop it up with a dustpan and set it aside.
If the area above the leak is a roof, see if the underside of the roof is wet.
Underside leaks of this jot down often start high and move downward.
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In some cases,water supply lines or drain lines behind wallsor under floors may be leaking.
The shape of the outline can help you determine where the leak is coming from above the ceiling.
Raised, damaged, or missing shingles may be leak points.
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Damaged shingles near the edge of the roof may indicate water leakage fromice dams.
Walk on the roof and further examine the shingles, along with the roof ridge.
Look at the metal step flashing alongside the chimney for signs of water entry points.
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Check all pipes and vents that extend from the roof.
This is best installed prior to installing new shingles, not retroactively.
Electric heating cables are attached to the top of the shingles.
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For replacing all of the flashing, consult with a roofing company or mason.
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Get buckets or large leak-proof containers to catch the dripping water.
Move or cover furniture with plastic to protect it from the leak.
Clean up the puddle or pool of water on the floor.
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If it’s a steady stream of water, plan on emptying the containers at regular intervals.
Usually, one of two main reasonsfaulty plumbing and roof problemsis the culprit behind ceiling leaks.
Depending on the severity of a leak, your ceiling can collapse.
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Usually, drywall or plaster with continuous streaming water will wear down with water pressure or prolonged water damage.
Centers For Disease Control and Prevention.
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