Ceiling water damage is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors, including: - Roof leaks - Plumbing leaks - Condensation It is important to be able to identify water damage on your ceiling so that you can take steps to repair it and prevent further damage. ### How to Tell if Water Damage is New or Old? One of the first things you need to do when you discover water damage on your ceiling is to determine if it is new or old. This will help you determine the cause of the damage and the best way to repair it. **New water damage** will typically be dark in color and have a wet or damp feel to it. It may also have a musty smell. **Old water damage** will typically be lighter in color and have a dry or crumbly feel to it. It may also have a moldy smell. If you are unsure whether the water damage is new or old, you can try to gently touch it with a dry cloth. If the cloth comes away wet, the damage is likely new. If the cloth comes away dry, the damage is likely old.