You’re sitting at your kitchen table and feel a raindrop on the top of your head. “That can’t be right,” you think. You look up to find a small but steady drip of water leaking from your ceiling. While a leaking ceiling can be alarming, there’s no need to panic. With the help of First Chicago Plumbing, you can learn to troubleshoot and repair ceiling leaks. 

Signs of a Leak

While you may think the first sign of a leaky ceiling is water, there are actually several other ways to identify that you are suffering from a leak. Ceilings that are water damaged will often be discolored and appear stained. It could appear yellow or brown or might simply look wet. The ceiling paint could also be bubbling, cracking, or peeling as a result of the damage. Leaks can also cause changes in texture, such as warping and buckling, as well as cause a musty odor. 

Identifying Leaks

Leaks typically come in two forms — roofing-related leaks and plumbing-related leaks. While it’s important to be able to identify the type of leak you have, know that both can lead to sagging drywall, buckling plaster, as well as extensive water damage. 

Roofing System

There are a few key indicators that your leaking ceiling is a result of your roofing. Typically, roofing leaks occur in attic spaces. If you’re noticing water damage in the upper levels of your house, it may be worth checking the roof. Likewise, look for these indicators of roofing-related leaks:

  • Ceiling leaks seem to be congruent with rainfall, and you often notice leaks either during or directly after a storm.
  • Any active dripping water is brown or dirty. This is a result of the water picking up dirt as it runs along the roof and into your home.

Plumbing
Leaks can also be a result of a problem with the plumbing pipes and fixtures in your home. Typically, plumbing-related leaks will appear in bathrooms, kitchens, and other indoor areas where pipes are located. Other signs of plumbing-related leaks include:

  • Leaking water is clear.
  • Leaking is steady and present regardless of the weather. 

Once you’ve identified the leak, you can take the proper steps to repair it. At First Chicago Plumbing, we can help you with all your water leaking needs. From repairing broken pipes to routine maintenance, we have over 20 years of experience serving the Chicago community. To learn more about our services or set up an appointment, give us a call at (773) 661-7969.