Recovering Your Property After Summer Storms

Posted on: 14 November 2019

Have you noticed wet patches or water stains on parts of your plasterboard ceiling? Is the paint on the plasterboard peeling in some areas? These are all signs of water damage. Unfortunately, a water damaged ceiling requires immediate repairs to prevent the problem from spreading. But how do you make this happen without breaking the bank?

Here is a detailed guide to help you restore your water damaged plasterboard ceiling while keeping short- and long-term costs low.

Identify and Fix the Leak

Water damage on the ceiling is usually a sign of a leak. It could be a broken plumbing pipe that's running through your ceiling. In some cases, your roof may be leaking too. Repairing the plaster without fixing the leak will only cost you more money in the future. The water will continue to damage the new ceiling and lead to extensive repairs.

Thus, before commencing any repairs, identify the source of the leak and fix it. In this case, you may need a professional roofer or plumber to help you detect the problem. Working with a professional ensures that the issue is adequately addressed and fixed to avoid future repairs. 

Look Out for Mould

One common mistake most homeowners make is repairing water damage without drying the ceiling. The moisture on the plaster and the warm temperatures in the home create a suitable breeding ground for indoor mould. Mould spores are incredibly harmful when inhaled. They can trigger nasal congestion, coughs, sneezes and watery eyes. Mould also makes asthma symptoms worse in individuals.

Inspect your plaster for mould, which is usually grey, black, white, green or brown. If not remediated, mould will continue to spread to other parts of the ceiling. You will end up spending even more for mould remediation and hospital visits. Thus, contact a mould removal expert so they can advise on how to get rid of the mould before repairing the ceiling.

Repair the Damage

Usually, restoring a water damaged ceiling involves cutting out the damaged part and replacing it with a new one. First, get repair supplies from the local hardware store. Remove all the damaged parts, including the peeling paint, lath and loose plaster layers. Scrape until you reach hard, undamaged plaster. Dry the plaster with a fan or vacuum to prevent mould in the future. Next, coat the surface with primer to create a smooth surface for the patching compound.

Once the primer dries, apply the patching compound in thin coats, ensuring it doesn't build up higher than the surrounding ceiling. Ensure you follow the instructions on the product packaging for excellent results. Sand the area after repairs to trim off excess compound and leave an even surface. Once done, apply primer and paint to finish off the area.

DIY plasterboard ceiling repair only makes sense when fixing a small portion of the ceiling. If the water damage is extensive, you need professional help to manage it properly. Contact a restoration contractor today for expert help.

For more information about plastering, contact a plastering service in your area.