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 
6 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?
Just kicked off the popcorn removal! Should probably see it through, right?
Seems like that spot isn’t just above the shower… I’d check higher up for a water leak.
But here’s the weird thing – the drywall ceiling underneath doesn’t have any water damage at all..🤔
Hey, did someone try out a soda and mentos experiment right below it?
Hahaha oh no, that’s funny!
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?
‘ roof is in good condition! If there was a leak above, shouldn’t the drywall ceiling be stained, damp, and spongy?!
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.
Right?! That’s exactly why my dad and I are puzzled by it haha. I’ve got a contractor coming over tomorrow to check it out. Hopefully, we can patch it up with some popcorn spackle and it’ll be fine!🤞🏼
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.
Oh man, I totally get what you mean! I’m worried it won’t stay up and just fall back down. I really don’t want to go through the hassle of removing it all haha🥴
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.
Hey, so after that do we have to mud the ceiling and paint it or what’s the next step? I have no idea haha
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.
Is doing okay, is mudding something that beginners can handle pretty easily? Haha
Texture is basically just mud that is sprayed on.
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.
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.
Looks like there’s a leak in your roof.
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.
Wow, that water mark is huge! There could be a leak in your roof.
Joe ohue hey, I’m wondering why the ceiling itself isn’t damp, discolored, or soft?
Hey, did you see that it’s discolored? I just noticed the water stain!
Joe ohue oh, I was actually referring to the area below the popcorn ceiling
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
Joe ohue appreciate the advice! I even gave it a fresh coat of paint recently and it was falling apart, so I’m wondering if the wet paint weakened it too haha hmm
Drywall acts like a sponge, especially ! Without primer, it will absorb moisture easily 👍
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.
It might be hard to tell if there’s no discoloration under the popcorn ceiling since the exposed area is within a larger stain.