Ceiling water damage can be a stressful and costly problem, but it's one that can be resolved quickly and effectively if you take the right steps. ## Immediate Actions The most important thing to do when you discover ceiling water damage is to **turn off the main water supply** to prevent further damage. Once the water is turned off, you can begin to assess the extent of the damage and take steps to prevent further damage. If the water is coming from a burst pipe, **attempt to find and fix the leak**. If the water is coming from a roof leak, **secure the roof as best as possible to prevent further water penetration**. **Remove any standing water** from the ceiling using a mop or towels. Be sure to soak up as much water as possible. **Ventilate the area** to prevent mold growth. Open windows and doors, or use fans to circulate the air. ## Repairs If the water damage is extensive, you may need to hire a professional to repair the damage. However, there are some repairs that you can do yourself, such as: * **Remove any damaged drywall**. If the drywall is wet or moldy, it will need to be replaced. * **Repair the source of the leak.** This may involve fixing a burst pipe, repairing a roof leak, or sealing a hole in the ceiling. * **Replace the drywall**. Once the source of the leak has been repaired, you can replace the drywall. Be sure to use mold-resistant drywall to prevent future mold growth. ## Can a Wet Drywall Ceiling Be Saved? In some cases, it may be possible to save a wet drywall ceiling. However, this is only possible if the drywall is not severely damaged and if the water damage is not caused by mold. To determine if a wet drywall ceiling can be saved, **inspect the ceiling for any signs of mold or mildew**. If the ceiling is moldy or mildewed, it will need to be replaced. If the ceiling is not moldy or mildewed, you may be able to save it by **drying it out completely**. To dry out the ceiling, use a fan or dehumidifier to circulate the air and remove moisture. Once the ceiling is dry, you should **inspect it for any signs of damage**. If the ceiling is damaged, it will need to be replaced. If the ceiling is not damaged, you can **repaint it or apply a new coat of primer**. Be sure to use a mold-resistant primer to prevent future mold growth.