Water damage is a worry for any homeowner. Whether it’s after a particularly rough storm and your walls start dripping, or you begin to notice some bubbling, it is overwhelming to know the next steps.
If you see any visible signs of water damage in ceiling, the problem needs prompt resolution. It is important to get to the root of the problem and not simply repair the cosmetic damage. At this point, you should begin water damage restoration on your home.
How Do I Know if It Is Water Damage?
So, you’ve noticed some odd bubbling in your ceiling or some unusual stains appearing on your ceiling and you want to know, “How do you know if it is water damage?”
Typically, the signs that you have water damage are subtle. Because of this, for most homeowners, a water leak can go unnoticed until there is significant damage. It is essential to look for early subtle signs to avoid significant water damage. Early signs include:
- Peeling.
- Bubbling of wallpaper.
- Visible stains.
- Mold.
- Texture changes.
- Higher utility bills.
- Unusual odors.
If you notice water dripping or soggy insulation, there is more water than you can see. If the ceiling is sagging, this likely means there is a substantial leak and water is pooling. If left unrepaired, this can cause significant damage to the house.
The Risks of Water Damage in Ceiling
A leak is one problem that you should not ignore. If left unaddressed, a leak can worsen and cause a myriad of issues, including structural damage to a home. Long-term water damage can lead to structural damage, unpleasant odors, and poor air quality in your home.
If there is water damage in your ceiling, you are more than likely going to have mold growth. Mold growth can be toxic and create long-term health risks. Mold can cause rashes, headaches, dizziness, nausea, asthma attacks, and lung infections.
If mold is suspected or found, it is time to call a professional for water damage restoration. A professional can inspect the area and follow the proper procedures to ensure the home is clear of any harmful mold.
Furthermore, water damage can cause severe structural damage. When a leak is left unattended, it will grow. As it grows, the wear and impact upon structural supports increase. Removal of damaged materials becomes more expensive as the problem remains.
What Causes Water Damage?
What goes on between walls can seem like a mystery, especially for a new homeowner. Because of this, when you notice water damage in your ceiling, it can be challenging to pinpoint what is causing the damage.
Water damage is caused by a leak located somewhere above the affected area. Some of the most common places a leak can occur are:
- Damaged Roofing.
- Faulty gutters.
- Leaking water from the bathroom.
- Broken pipe.
- Old caulking and plaster.
- Improper pipe connections.
- Broken appliance.
What to Do if There Is Water Damage in Your Ceiling?
When water damage occurs, it is hard to know how to solve the problem. While large areas of damage should be handled by a professional, there are things you can do to limit the impact and prepare for a professional visit.
- Prepare the space. Move anything that can be damaged by water out of the area. Lay down a bucket and tarp to catch falling water. Be sure to control where the water exits by making a small hole in the center of the leak using something like a screwdriver.
- Repair what is causing the leak. Once you remove any pooling water, it is time to remove the damaged ceiling and repair whatever caused the leak. Water can travel farther than you may think.
The situation may seem simple, but it could be from any number of sources. If you have trouble finding the leak, lay toilet paper along any suspected pipes, which will help you identify moisture. - Dry the ceiling. All materials and space around the damaged area must be appropriately dried. If the leak is substantial, you may need to open the section further and air it out with a fan.
- Remove all damaged sections. At this time, scrap off any peeling, bulging, or stained areas. If the drywall is only stained and the structural integrity intact, you can salvage it by only cutting out the affected area.
- Repair minor damage. If the damage to the ceiling is minor, it is possible to repair it yourself. The repair can be as simple as spackling and repainting the area. If this is the case, sand down any bumps and rough edges, spackle, and repaint. Most home improvement stores can color-match paint colors based on a piece of the ceiling with the needed color.
What is Professional Water Damage Restoration?
Minimal leaks and damage are possible to take care of at home. However, many times the problem is more significant than you can DIY. Here are some of the main reasons a professional restoration is needed:
- A professional can identify the type of water to ensure no harmful pathogens contaminate it.
- They have the proper supplies, knowledge, and protection to carry out mold remediation.
- They will have all the equipment needed to properly dry out and repair your ceiling.
- A professional can pre-treat the area with antimicrobials to ensure nothing harmful grows.
- A professional can more efficiently fix the issue, resulting in faster repair, minimized damage, and a quicker return to normal.
Let Utah Disaster Cleanup and Restoration Take Care of your Water Damage Restoration
If, after assessing the damage in your ceiling, you find yourself faced with a large project and not a limited amount of know-how, contact Utah Disaster Cleanup and Restoration. Our fast and friendly service is available 24/7 to get you started on your water damage restoration.
Our technicians will ensure all hazards (like mold) are removed, remove damaged surfaces, and restore your home to how it was before the water damage occurred. We are ready to help.
