Ceiling water damage can be a property owner's nightmare. Understanding its signs and causes is crucial for timely repairs and preventing further complications. ### Signs of Ceiling Water Damage * **Stains:** Brown or yellow stains on the ceiling indicate water seepage. * **Peeling Paint:** Water damage can cause paint to peel and bubble. * **Blistering:** Water may create blisters in the ceiling material. * **Sagging:** Severe water damage can cause the ceiling to sag or buckle. * **Mold and Mildew:** Moisture accumulation may lead to mold and mildew growth. ### How to Tell if Water Damage is New or Old? * **Fresh:** New water damage appears dark and may drip actively. * **Older:** Older damage may be lighter in color and have dried edges. * **Musty Odor:** A musty odor accompanying water damage indicates older contamination. * **Mold:** Visible mold growth on the ceiling is a sign of long-standing water issues.