Identifying Water Damage and Leaks on Ceilings

**Water damage** to ceilings can be a major problem, leading to costly repairs and even health hazards. It’s important to be able to identify water damage early on so that you can take steps to fix the problem before it gets worse.

**How to Tell if Water Damage is New or Old?**

One way to tell if water damage is new or old is to look at the color of the stain. New water damage will typically be a darker color, such as brown or black. Old water damage will be lighter in color, such as yellow or tan.

Another way to tell if water damage is new or old is to feel the texture of the ceiling. New water damage will typically be soft and spongy. Old water damage will be hard and crusty.

Finally, you can also tell if water damage is new or old by the smell. New water damage will typically have a musty or moldy smell. Old water damage will not have a smell.

**If you suspect that your ceiling has water damage, it’s important to take action as soon as possible. A professional water damage restoration company can help you identify the source of the leak and repair the damage.**