What should you do if you notice a water mark on your ceiling? It is important not to panic. Instead, you should try to identify the cause right away so that you can stop it from getting worse and prevent it from happening in future.

Escape of water is the most common cause of household insurance claims. There are actually a number of things that could lead to water finding its way through your ceilings. Here is a look at four of the most common culprits.

Roof leaks

The most common cause is a leaking roof, which is often due to broken tiles or damaged flashing around a chimney or dormer. A quick visual check of the outside should tell you if there is any obvious damage before you call for a roofer.

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Condensation

Condensation can lead to stains, and it can have a number of root causes. In warm weather, condensation can form on cold water supply pipes and then run back to a joint or bend, where it then drips.

Condensation can also form in extractor fan ducts and find its way out through joints in the ducting. A poorly insulated roof space can also lead to condensation problems. Insulation means the roof space is cold while the house below is warm, and this can lead to condensation forming on the underside of the roofing felt. To prevent this, a vapour barrier should be installed between the insulation and the ceiling joists.

Poor seals

Gaps between tiles or poorly applied seals around shower trays and baths can lead to water being able to find its way down to stain the ceiling below. If you’re replacing seals, it’s important to use a silicone sealant remover such as https://www.ct1.com/product-applications/how-to-remove-silicone-sealant/ to get rid of all traces of the old seal in order to ensure that the new sealant adheres properly and does a good job.

Leaking pipes

Many factors can cause leaking pipes. In older houses with metal pipework, a leak could be caused by corrosion or pinholes in solder joints. Plastic pipes are unlikely to degrade in this way, but the joints can be vulnerable because seals can break down over time. Keep in mind that the leak might not be directly over the stain. Water can run back along the outside of the pipe before dripping.