Nobody expects to look up and see wet spots developing on the ceiling. What happens next may feel and seem like something out of a horror movie. You may see the discoloration spreading, perhaps even seeping into the paint and creating bubbles. It's all a nightmare.

But what causes a wet ceiling, and what can you do about it? Read on to see what might be causing your wet ceiling.

Do Leaky Pipes Cause a Wet Ceiling?

Leaky pipes are among the most common causes for your ceiling to appear wet. Leaky pipes don't always make themselves readily apparent until you have a large wet spot or discoloration appearing.

Leaky pipes are a big problem, and you should take action now rather than later to prevent extensive damage from occurring in your home. The longer water sits in your home, the more damage it can cause. In fact, it could even lead to mold or mildew growing in your home.

Do Leaky Appliances Cause a Wet Ceiling?

Keep in mind a leaking appliance can lead to a wet ceiling. Your water heater, dishwasher, or washer could very well be leaking water without your knowledge, especially if they are on the second floor. Your water heater or boiler could also be the root of the matter.

Leaking appliances can be caused by faulty hookups between your pipes and your appliances. Part of the problem could also be that something is seriously wrong with the appliance. Your washing machine might be sealed poorly, for example.

What Should You Do About a Wet Ceiling?

The first thing you need to do is worry about what is causing the wetness. Having a plumber come in to assess your situation and determine if anything requires an adjustment is your first step. In the meantime, you might want to shut off the valve to protect your ceiling from further damage.

In the meantime, set out a bucket to catch the water. Some people also drill a small hole in the ceiling to alleviate the pressure of the water in your ceiling. Then, turn on some fans, especially ceiling fans, so you can dry out the ceiling as much as possible while you wait.

Once a plumber has taken care of the source, you can worry about the cosmetic damage, including painting and priming your ceiling and walls.

Leaks and excess humidity can really take a toll on your home, from the inside out. Call a plumbing service today for more information or assistance.