How to Make a Hole in the Ceiling to Stop Leaks From Spreading

Leaking water can form puddles above a ceiling. As it builds over time, it may start traveling along low spots in the ceiling material. This increases the amount of damage caused by the water leak. Eliminating water puddles before they spread reduces the damage and lessens the cost of repairing the ceiling. It does not take a great deal of effort to reduce water puddles; it just takes a small hole to allow the water to flow out of the ceiling.

Plastic tarp
Bucket
Stepladder
Scratch awl

Instructions

- 1
  Lay a plastic tarp on the floor directly below the ceiling leak. Set a bucket on top of the tarp.
- 2
  Stand a stepladder on the tarp, directly below the area where water drips from the ceiling. Use a stepladder that allows you to reach the ceiling without standing on its top two rungs.
- 3
  Climb the ladder slowly. Stop climbing at the lowest rung from which you can safely reach the ceiling.
- 4
  Force the tip of a scratch awl through the ceiling. Leave the awl in place. Slide the bucket across the tarp until it sits under the awl.
- 5
  Move the awl handle in a circular motion to enlarge the hole. Pull the awl from the ceiling. Move the bucket until it catches the water flowing from the hole.

How to Fix a Leak in the Ceiling From the Bathroom

How to Repair Plaster Sprayed Ceilings

Ceiling Repairs