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Is high humidity from the shower causing the popcorn ceiling to peel off, or is there more serious water damage to the drywall ceiling?

Asked by Gabriel Phillips
7 months ago
Last Updated: May 25, 2024

Hey, quick update on that water mark on the ceiling – I painted over it last week, but when I went to check on it yesterday, the popcorn ceiling just peeled right off! The drywall underneath looks fine though, no signs of water damage. It feels solid to the touch, not soft. Do you think it’s just the high humidity and moisture from the shower causing this? Maybe we just need a new exhaust fan?

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Harper Jean-Baptiste

Just kicked off the popcorn removal! Should probably see it through, right?

Viivi Tervo

Seems like that spot isn’t just above the shower… I’d check higher up for a water leak.

Viivi Tervo

Hey, did someone try out a soda and mentos experiment right below it?

Margot Franck

The fan appears to be in good condition. Is it possible that there’s a leak in the ducting connected to it, or maybe even the roof?

Margot Franck

I agree it should be soft and moist. It’s strange that it isn’t. Maybe, like someone else suggested, one of the kids did some kind of experiment lol. Try painting it with Kilz and see if the stain reappears. It might also be due to the fan being close by. I usually test mine by lighting a candle and seeing if the fan sucks in the smoke.

Margot Franck

Hey, you could try fixing it with popcorn stuff. Before that, use a plastic scraper to remove any damp patches from the ceiling. Popcorn ceilings were usually sprayed on without priming or painting first, which is probably why it’s falling now.

Margot Franck

Oh yeah, it definitely gets messy lol. But it’s actually pretty simple – grab a spray bottle, dampen it with water, let it sit for about 15 minutes, and it’ll come off easily. If you feel like doing it, that is. It’s one of those things you need to get around to.

Margot Franck

Yep, you can texture it however you like or create a design. If you’re dealing with popcorn ceilings, you’ll need to apply primer before texturing. If you’re adding texture, make sure to paint after applying the texture.

Margot Franck

Texture is basically just mud that is sprayed on.

Margot Franck

It’s not too difficult to do. Your ceiling should already have the seams and nail holes filled. To add texture, you’ll need a hopper and at least a 15-gallon air compressor. Hoppers are pretty cheap, around 30 bucks, but compressors can get pricey. I can assure you though, it’s a lot of fun to use one.

Loïc Dumont

Removing popcorn ceiling is a breeze with water. If I were you, I’d use a spray bottle to dampen it, then scrape it off and smoothen the surface.

Gökhan Toraman

Looks like there’s a leak in your roof.

Bror Risberg

Try poking it with a tack. It might be softer than you think. Also, check if it feels colder to the touch. Have you removed the fan cover to check the duct direction? There’s definitely some issue like a sweating pipe, roof leak, or critter messing with the insulation.

Mélina Dumont

Wow, that water mark is huge! There could be a leak in your roof.

Mélina Dumont

Hey, did you see that it’s discolored? I just noticed the water stain!

Mélina Dumont

Hey, it could be a leak in your roof or maybe it’s condensation from being near your vent! Make sure to inspect your vent and where it exits the house! The drywall was moist when you tried to fix it, so it just crumbled off

Mélina Dumont

Drywall acts like a sponge, especially ! Without primer, it will absorb moisture easily 👍

Soledad Mora

You should consider getting a moisture meter. They’re only about $30 on Amazon. It’ll help you confirm if it’s wet and what kind of work might be needed.

Randy Kelly

It might be hard to tell if there’s no discoloration under the popcorn ceiling since the exposed area is within a larger stain.

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