Brown Spots on Ceiling: What Exactly Are They?

Are brown spots on your ceiling cause for concern? In the immediate now, probably not—but left unchecked, it could cost you big $$$. But, what exactly are these brown spots?

Leaks are the likely culprits. Water could’ve penetrated your roof after a heavy storm, your landlord might’ve forgotten to fix a plumbing pipe, or mold growth could be to blame. Browns spots and water bubbles are 2 of the most common signs you need roof repairs.

Water seeping into your ceiling evaporates over time. This leaves colored deposits on your ceilings—aka, the dreaded brown spots. So, how do you deal with it? Let’s get started.

What to Do When You See Brown Spots On Your Ceiling?

Brown spots could mean underlying issues. It’s better to take immediate action while you can still fix the issue with smaller repairs. Here are some things you could do when you see brown spots on your ceiling:

Check for Mold Growth

Grab some mold remover and maybe even scrape away a bit of paint to see how deep the damage goes. If everything underneath looks okay, a fresh coat of moisture-resistant paint should do the trick. If you’re renting, don’t hesitate to call your landlord—that’s their job!

In the meantime, keep that bathroom door open after showering to let the steam escape. Shorten your shower time and turn off the water while lathering up to minimize steam buildup.

Get a Roof Inspection

The most common cause of brown spots is leaks. If there aren’t any pipes or heating appliances where the spots are, then the issue might come from your roof. Lucky for you, Trenton offers free roof inspections so you can rest easy when you see a brown spot.

But before that, be sure that you’re prepared for the inspection. To help you out, we’ve created a comprehensive roof inspection checklist that goes over what you can do yourself and when you should call a professional.

Investigate Plumbing or Appliances

If the brown spot is near a bathroom or kitchen, a leaky pipe or appliance could be the cause. Check for signs of moisture or drips around sinks, toilets, showers, washing machines, or dishwashers. If you find any leaks, it’s best to call your local plumber.

Check for Condensation Issues

If your home is particularly humid or lacks proper ventilation, condensation could be causing the brown spots. You might notice them more during colder months when warm, moist air comes into contact with cold surfaces.

Improving ventilation, using a dehumidifier, and ensuring proper insulation help with potential condensation issues your home might be facing.

Inspect the Attic

If you have access to your attic, head up there with a flashlight and look for any signs of leaks or water damage. Check around vents, chimneys, and roof penetrations. If you spot any issues, it’s time to call a roof repair specialist.

What Can Cause Brown Spots On Ceiling?

There are several reasons why brown spots appear on your ceiling. Some might require immediate attention, others might just be a prosthetic issue that only needs touch ups, not repairs. Here are some of the most common causes of brown spots:

Flashing Issues

Flashing protects your roof’s weak spots. These pieces of metal prevent water from seeping into where different parts of your roof meet. That’s why it’s crucial to give your flashing a regular once-over to make sure it’s still in good condition.

If your flashing fails, it’s like leaving the door open for water to sneak in. You might spot telltale water stains on your ceiling or walls, but not always.

Skylights, Vents, and Chimneys

Vents, skylights, and chimneys need to be installed with precision to keep water out of your home. When done right by pros, they shouldn’t leak. But over time, wear and tear can happen, and you might need to reseal them to keep water out.

The insulation around them can break down, letting water sneak in. If you suspect your skylight is the culprit behind those brown stains, check for cracks or damage to the window itself. Chimneys can also be a source of leaks if they’re not properly maintained. Over time, they can develop holes or lose mortar, opening up pathways for water to enter.

Clogged Gutters

Don’t forget about your gutters. When leaves and debris pile up, rainwater can’t drain properly. It spills over onto your roof and seeps under the shingles, causing water damage.

Gutters are designed to channel water away. If they’re not regularly cleaned and maintained, they can quickly become clogged with all sorts of gunk, leading to leaks, pest problems, and even foundation damage.

Holes in the Roof

If there are holes in your roof, that’s a major cause for concern. In some cases, you might even need emergency roof repairs. You might be able to patch or temporarily repair small holes.

When it comes to bigger holes caused by hail, snow, or strong winds, then you’d best call a roof repair contractor. This isn’t something you’d want to delay.

Damaged or Worn Down Waterproofing Material

Waterproofing material doesn’t last forever. If you know that there was waterproofing material installed on your roof and it starts to leak, then it’s likely the cause of the brown spots.

This protective layer can take a beating from foot traffic, harsh weather, or even accidental damage. The older your waterproofing material gets, the more likely it is to spring a leak.

Missing or Damaged Shingles

Missing shingles can cause leaks. Leaks cause brown spots on your ceilings. If there’s been a storm or strong winds, go for a quick roof inspection if possible. You could also find shingles lying near your property after bad weather conditions.

Cigarette Smoke

If you find yellow or brown staining on your ceilings, then it might be due to cigarette smoke. This happens a lot, especially if you’re smoking inside humid areas like bathrooms.

Luckily, this type of spot isn’t a sign of water damage. The bad news is that it’ll take a lot of cleaning to get rid of. You might even need an entirely fresh coat of paint to cover the stains.

Treating Ceiling Spots

If you find brown spots on your ceiling, that could indicate potential underlying issues. It’s best to take action as soon as possible before repairs get expensive.

For your peace of mind, give your experts a call as soon as you see brown spots on your ceiling. That’s where Trenton Roofing comes in. Get a free roof inspection today!