Don't let those water stains hang over your head — a DIY fix is just a weekend away!
A water stain on a ceiling is a foreboding sight. Not only is it ugly, but it also often means that something is actively leaking, and more damage may be hidden.
But don’t panic — fixing a water stain is pretty straightforward. If you follow this simple guide, you’ll be ready to deal with any discoloration you find on your ceilings.
First, check to see if there is any water on the floor below the stain. This will help determine if the leak is still in progress and how heavily it’s leaking.
If water is on the floor, you’ll need to lay down towels or buckets to collect any remaining dripping water. Excessive water on your floor can stain carpets and buckle wood floors, so it’s best to dry it as soon as possible.
You might be tempted to repair floor damage at this time as well, but it’s probably best to wait until after you’ve finished all of the work on the ceiling, including the painting. You wouldn’t want to spill paint on a brand-new rug or on your new hardwood floors.
Water leaks can be caused by worn gaskets or failed fittings. If your pipes appear dry but you suspect the leak still exists, try running water into the device above the stain. For example, fill up and drain your tub. That should be enough to expose the problem if it still exists.
If you have a leak, you can either hire a plumber or attempt to repair it yourself. Most plumbing repairs are fairly simple and can be performed by most willing homeowners. Some older water stains may have been from a plumbing leak that was repaired years ago, but the stain itself was never properly addressed.
Check to see if the ceiling is wet or just stained. Most water stains will be on the ceiling below a bathroom fixture.
Rookie tip: Look for active mold growth in your ceiling space on the joists and on the back of the removed drywall paper. Mold grows readily in dark and damp places — and a wet ceiling space is an ideal environment. If you come across mold that you are unsure of, stop work immediately and call a professional.
Rookie tip: Oil-based primers will hide stains better than water-based primers, but they are much more difficult to work with and clean. Water-based primers don’t hide stains as well and might require an extra coat, but brushes and rollers can typically be cleaned with soap and water.
Water leaks are a real pain, but with a little drywall, primer and paint, you'll be well on your way to a spotless ceiling.
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Originally published October 5, 2016.
Written by
Zillow
09.25.2018