How do I cover a water stain on a ceiling?

Fix the leak. Before you think about painting, make sure that the source of the leak has been repaired. If you still have a leak, all of the work to cover the stain will be ruined. You'll just wind up with another stain.

• Use primer. Prime the affected area with several coats of a reputable stain blocker. Make sure to use a drop cloth or plastic sheeting under the area you're priming (and painting) so that you don't stain your carpet or hardwood. Roll or brush your primer onto the area and the surrounding area. Don't stop at the edges of the stain. Go several inches beyond. Let the primer dry completely before applying any paint.
• Paint the area with ceiling paint. If you have paint leftover from the original paint job, use it. If you don't, use color swatches from the Paint Center at your local Westlake to try to match your current ceiling. Usually, ceilings are painted with either stark white or a few shades softer than stark white.

Check your state and local codes before starting any project. Follow all safety precautions. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and safety of this information. Neither Westlake nor any contributor can be held responsible for damages or injuries resulting from the use of the information in this document.