How to Remove a Ceiling Water Stain

a ceiling Water Stain
  • 1-2 hours
  • Intermediate
  • 50-100
What You'll Need
Pigmented stain blocker
Ceiling paint
Damp rag
Plastic sheet
Paint rollers brushes
Paint tray
Stepladder
Bleach
White chalk or shoe polish
Rubber gloves
Safety glasses
What You'll Need
Pigmented stain blocker
Ceiling paint
Damp rag
Plastic sheet
Paint rollers brushes
Paint tray
Stepladder
Bleach
White chalk or shoe polish
Rubber gloves
Safety glasses

Ceiling water stains considerably reduce the aesthetic appeal of your room. There are ways to prevent water stains on your ceiling, but if they have already appeared, they can be removed.

Step 1 - Repair the Leak

Before you remove the stain, you will have to repair what is causing the stain. In most cases, the cause is a water leak or the collection of water on your roof.

Step 2 - Prepare

yellowed, stained ceiling

Place a plastic sheet below the stained area. Using a stepladder, clean the stained area with a damp rag. If you find any mold, use bleach and water to remove it.

Step 3 - Analyze the Stain

If the stain is small, simply dab some bleach (mixed with water) on the area till the stain disappears. Then, use shoe polish or white chalk to color the area.

Step 4 - Apply a Stain Blocker

rolling paint onto a ceiling

If the stain is large, use a pigmented stain blocker (such as Kilz or Bullseye) to cover the stain. To apply the stain blocker, use rollers for smooth surfaces and brushes for corners. Allow the ceiling to dry for at least 24 hours.

Step 5 - Paint

Once the pigmented stain blocker has dried, simply apply matching ceiling paint over the area. Let it dry and repeat this process, if needed.