**Ceiling Water Damage** can manifest itself in various forms, from discolored patches to sagging or peeling ceilings. It is imperative to promptly identify and address these issues to prevent further damage and potential health hazards. ### How to Tell if Water Damage is New or Old? Distinguishing between fresh and long-standing water damage is crucial for determining the severity of the issue and the appropriate remediation measures. Here are some pointers: - **Fresh Damage:** - **Color:** Light yellow or orange stains - **Texture:** Damp or soft to the touch - **Odor:** Pungent or musty smell - **Old Damage:** - **Color:** Dark brown or black stains - **Texture:** Dry and brittle - **Odor:** Usually absent or faint Additionally, the presence of mold growth or mildew indicates that the water damage has been present for an extended period.