Your ceiling has an important role in maintaining the structure of your home, and over time it may require maintenance. There are a range of issues which can occur, some which can be fixed...and some which can’t! If you are unsure whether your ceiling can be saved or if you require a replacement, the following guide will point you in the right direction:

Water damage usually has an underlying cause such as a leaky roof or damaged pipes, and in order to save your ceiling the issue will need to be rectified. The good news is, if the water damage isn’t too severe it can most likely be fixed. The problem may be worse when it rains, and you may notice water pooling. Having water around electrical wiring is a potential fire hazard and this is a safety risk you don’t want to take. In addition, when left untreated water damage can lead to discolouration and mould. If you ignore water damage any wooden framing could rot and this could eventually lead to ceiling collapse. 

Some cracks are normal and caused by age, while others can be a sign of something more serious. Thin cracks with a spider web appearance are usually nothing to worry about and can be disguised fairly easily. If the cracking is noticeable and accompanied by a sagging ceiling, this is a sign that there may be structural damage. A professional should be called in urgently to assess the damage, as it could be caused by anything from an insufficient load bearing wall, to oversized items being placed upstairs. There is a chance a cracked ceiling can be saved but leaving it too long could result in an entire ceiling replacement.

Mould often accompanies water damage, and it can spread very quickly. Mould can be a health concern and is difficult to remove. The cause of the mould could be water damage, or it could be from moisture build up in the room. Once again, it is important to find the underlying problem and have this fixed to prevent treated mould from reoccurring. If you do have mould, your ceiling can usually be saved. Once the mould is treated, you can repaint the ceiling using high quality, mould resistant specialised ceiling paint. The installation of extra ventilation is also recommended. 

A sagging ceiling is something which needs to be repaired, and other signs to look for include cracking sounds, blisters and falling plasterboard. Pests, poor workmanship and water damage can all be contributing factors. A sagging ceiling may be beyond repair, but there are ways it can be re-strapped if fixed early enough. The danger of neglecting a sagging ceiling is collapse, and this is not only dangerous but will require a whole new ceiling.