If water accumulates over your ceiling the water can weigh down your ceiling and create a large hole or cause it to collapse. If you create a larger hole, you may be able to see where the leak is coming from more easily.
If the leak is under an area with a kitchen, a bathroom, or some other type of plumbing, this is likely the source of the problem. [5] X Expert Source Nick YahoodainGeneral Contractor Expert Interview. 6 October 2020. Other problem areas might include damaged flashing around a roof pipe, a pierced gutter, or a skylight that isn’t properly sealed. [6] X Expert Source Nick YahoodainGeneral Contractor Expert Interview. 6 October 2020. Another cause of leaks is faulty air conditioning. Your air conditioner’s condensate lines could be clogged, leading to overflow that can cause ceiling leaks.
A framing square will create a square hole that is easier to patch. If the damage is more than 6x6 inches (15. 24x15. 24 cm) then you should seek professional guidance to fix your leaking ceiling.
Try not to remove any more of the ceiling than you need to. It’s a lot easier to fix a 1 ft (0. 30 m) square patch than an entire ceiling. [7] X Expert Source Nick YahoodainGeneral Contractor Expert Interview. 6 October 2020.
Alternatively, you could cut back the drywall to the center of each of the closest framing members, which would allow you to skip this step.
This is called a hot patch and only recommended to be done on smaller 2-inch x 2-inch (5 cm x 5 cm) patches.
Make sure not to cut too deeply, or you will cut into the front layer of the drywall. You will use the front layer of paper to help blend in your repairs.
For small patches up to 2-inch x 2-inch (5 cm x 5 cm), you don’t have to use screws. Instead, you can use drywall paper to fasten your patch.
This will require a few coats of compound.
You can also use a drywall sanding sponge that’s made specifically for drywall.
Be sure to prime the area before you paint it.
