Water Stains On The Ceiling: Roof Leak Or Something Else?

If the stain only grows when it rains, look at the roof. If it grows any day of the week, look at the plumbing.

Example photo: a brown water stain on an interior ceiling beside a chimney — Example photo: a ceiling stain near a chimney.

Water coming in right now? Calling is faster than a form.

The rain test

Mark the edge of the stain with a pencil and write the date next to it. Then watch it.

Bigger after rain or melting snow, dry in between: think roof.
Bigger on a clear day: think a pipe, a tub, a shower pan, or a washing machine line.
Worst in cold weather with no rain: think condensation from poor attic airflow.
Right under a bathroom on the floor above: check the bathroom first.

Other things that look like a roof leak

Plenty of ceiling stains have nothing to do with the roof. An ice dam, a cracked vent pipe, a clogged gutter pushing water behind the fascia, or an air conditioner drain pan can all do it.

Example photo: water staining on the interior trim around a skylight — Example photo: skylight trim stains are often flashing, not the roof.

When to get a professional in

Call when the stain keeps growing, when it comes back after a repair, when the ceiling is sagging, or when you smell a musty smell. Those mean water has been sitting in the structure for a while.

Example photo: metal counterflashing being fitted where a chimney meets the roof — Example photo: chimney flashing is a common source of ceiling stains.

What we do and do not handle

We find and fix roof leaks, including flashing, valleys, vents and slate. We do not do interior water cleanup or mold removal. If the water came from a pipe, you need a plumber, and we will tell you so instead of selling you roof work.

Questions people ask

Can you tell from a photo of my ceiling?

Not reliably. A photo helps us guess, but the source is found on the roof and in the attic.

Should I paint over the stain?

Fix the water first. Paint over a live leak and the stain comes back through in a few weeks.

How we can help

Ceiling stains, drips and damp attics all start small. We find the real source of the leak and fix it the right way.

CALL NOW (215) 326-2712 Roof Leak Repair

The inspection and the written estimate are done by the partner roofing company assigned to your address. Photos above are example roofing photos, not your home.