How to Deal with Leaking Ceilings?

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Ceiling leaks occur when the building space above the ceiling is inundated with water or moisture, finally penetrating the ceiling. Leaks are observed as discoloration or dripping water through the ceiling. 

Ceiling leaks indicate a faulty plumbing system or an improper rainwater drainage system of the rooms above.

This article discusses the possible ways to troubleshoot the cause of ceiling leaks and ways to deal with them.

How to Identify the Causes of Ceiling Leakage?

Before rushing to repair the leaks on the ceiling, it is essential to identify the underlying cause. Mitigating the root cause of leakage results in effective repair of the ceiling structure.

Some common causes of ceiling leaks are toilet leaks, shower leaks, sink leaks, or roof leaks. All the mentioned leak sources are examined in the following ways:

1. Bubbled Paint on Ceiling and Walls

One common sign of ceiling leaks is bubbled ceiling paint. In few cases, these leaks, in the form of blisters, can pass through the ceilings and continue down the walls. 

2. Dark Water on Ceilings 

The leaking water is usually dark-colored and is easily identifiable when the ceiling is light or white. It may smell musty. In certain cases, this water can be clear or odor-free.

3. Ceiling Patches after an Event

Sometimes, events like rain or snow or water leaks in the toilet or bathroom due to faulty fixtures can create patches. It may also show previous ceiling leaks.

How to Repair Ceiling Leaks?

The leaks can either be external or internal. In addition to plumbing line issues, faulty rain gutter systems can result in external as well as internal leaks. 

Type of Ceiling Leak	Cause	Repair
1. Internal Ceiling Leak	1.1. Leaks from Toilet	Remove the toilet Replace the leak area and properly seal the joint at the bottom of the toilet Replace the toilet Caulk around the base of the toilet.
	1.2. Leaking Shower or Tub	Remove the unit, correct the leaks, and seal it properly. Make the floor moisture-proof if it is not.
	1.3. Leaking water lines or drain pipes	Check the water supply line to the toilet and replace it if any lines are leaking.  If the drains under the sink are leaking, re-install or replace them.
2. External Ceiling Leaks	2.1. Leaking Gutters	Clean the gutters and downspouts. Run water through it and check the flow. Check the gutter’s slope and connections. Provide screens to prevent debris settlement and clogging.
	2.2. Missing or damaged shingles	Remove the damaged or missing shingles on the roofs with a matching shingle. Check if the roof frame is not damaged or rotted in the case of wood frames.
	2.3. Thawed ice leaks	Add an ice dam membrane along the edge of the roof to prevent thawed ice from leaking under the roof shingles, then to the attic, and finally to the ceiling.
	2.4. Leaking flashing and vents	Minor step flashing issues must be corrected. If flashing needs replacement, consult an expert to do the work.

Once the root causes behind ceiling leaks are identified and corrected, the next step is to repair the damaged ceiling. In most cases, the ceiling supporting structure (drywall) may be wet, rotted, or damaged. In such cases, drywall requires replacement. 

In less severe cases, the ceiling may have leak patches that can be cleaned, plastered, or painted again to regain its look, But very acute leakage issues may demand the replacement of the ceiling along with the drywall. This also depends on the type of ceiling material used in the building. 

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