Common Causes of Water Stains on a Ceiling

Noticed a water stain on your ceiling? The most common cause of these stains is typically either a roof
leak or condensation, with condensation being the most common.

Don’t ignore the problem! Water damage can be expensive to fix and, if ignored, it can cause mold
growth. Don’t try to fix the problem until you’ve determined the source of the moisture.

Often times, condensation forms in the attic because heat rises. If your ceiling has inadequate insulation, heat can seep into the attic.

During the winter, especially when temperatures are very low, this heat can produce condensation that
freezes. When temperatures rise, this frozen condensation melts and drips back down into your ceiling
and down your home’s walls.

Condensation can also result if air ducts are not properly insulated – or if there is an air leak in your
vents. If ducts are not properly sealed, cold air leaks out, meets up with warm attic air, and creates
condensation.

Once you’ve identified the source of the problem and corrected it, you can get rid of the ugly stain on
your ceiling by covering it with a couple coats of primer, followed by your choice of paint color.