What to Do with Water Damage on Your Ceiling

Immediate Actions

• Find the source of the leak. Look for any cracks in the ceiling, pipes, or fixtures that may be leaking water.
• Stop the leak. If possible, turn off the water supply to the leaking pipe or fixture. If you can’t find the source of the leak or stop it yourself, call a plumber.
• Protect your belongings. Move any furniture or other items that could be damaged by water away from the affected area.
• Remove any standing water. Use a wet/dry vacuum or towels to remove any standing water from the ceiling.
• Dry the ceiling. Open windows and doors to air out the room. You can also use a fan to help dry the ceiling.

Repairs

Once the leak has been stopped and the ceiling is dry, you can begin repairs. The type of repair needed will depend on the extent of the damage.

• Minor damage. If the damage is minor, you may be able to repair it yourself. You can use a patching compound to fill in any holes or cracks. Once the patching compound has dried, you can paint over it.
• Major damage. If the damage is major, you will need to hire a contractor to repair it. The contractor will need to remove the damaged ceiling and replace it with new drywall. They may also need to repair any underlying structural damage.

Can a Wet Drywall Ceiling Be Saved?

The answer to this question depends on the extent of the water damage. If the drywall is only slightly wet, it may be possible to save it. However, if the drywall is soaked through, it will need to be replaced.

Here are some tips for saving a wet drywall ceiling:

• Remove any standing water. Use a wet/dry vacuum or towels to remove any standing water from the ceiling.
• Dry the ceiling. Open windows and doors to air out the room. You can also use a fan to help dry the ceiling.
• Inspect the drywall. Once the ceiling is dry, inspect the drywall for any damage. If the drywall is only slightly damaged, you may be able to repair it yourself. However, if the drywall is soaked through, it will need to be replaced.