Water Stains on the ceiling after a Storm: Possible Roof Problems

If water stains are noticed on the ceiling after a storm, it is a sign of serious problems with the roof.

While most storms are nothing to worry about, they can pose threats to a home, particularly to the roof. In most instances, the thunder, lightning, wind, and rain will pass without causing damage. However, if water stains are noticed on the ceiling after a storm, it is a sign of serious problems with the roof. Here’s what should be known.

Water Stained Ceilings

Water stains on the ceiling usually indicate serious problems rather than minor concerns. For water to leak into the roof, down through the attic or sub-roof, and to the ceiling, there usually has to be a considerable amount of water, which can indicate a large leak or a situation that has been ongoing for some time.

Inspect for Leaks

For those who want to tackle the inspection portion on their own, getting into the attic or crawlspace is necessary. The water stain on the ceiling is rarely directly beneath the leak in the roof. Because of the pitch on most roofs, water leaks in, runs down, and finally drips into the insulation before making its way into the ceiling of the room below. The actual leak can be a long way from where the water eventually stained the ceiling.

The simplest thing to do is locate the wet insulation above the water stain and inspect the decking material directly above it. A line of water running up the pitch of the roof to the point of penetration into the interior should be visible (if inspected before the water dries). However, this is not a “sure thing,” as water can also run under the shingles outside the roof.

Once the point of entry into the interior has been located, inspect the top of the roof for signs of damage. Look for missing or damaged shingles in the area around the point of interior penetration. However, do not be surprised if nothing is seen. Spotting water leaks can be difficult to do independently.

When in Doubt

A professional roofing contractor will perform a full roof inspection of the home, both inside and out. This is the only true way to ensure the leak is located and the full amount of water damage is assessed. The roofing contractor will determine if there is any mold present or if any drywall needs to be replaced. They will also determine what roofing repairs are necessary to repair the leak or if an entirely new roof is needed.