What Causes Ceiling Tiles To Become Discolored?

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

Mold damage on ceiling in Somerset,WA

Water stains are the most common cause of discolored ceiling tiles. Excessive moisture can also lead to tile mold. Learn more about the major causes of tile discoloration.

Water Damage

There are several potential sources of ceiling damage. Depending on the layout of a structure, the source may be:

• Burst or leaking pipes
  
• Toilet leaks or backups
  
• Roof leaks
  

If the discoloration recently appeared, check for signs of moisture. A damage mitigation service may use a thermal camera to identify the origin of the damage.

Tile Mold

Exposure to water can also lead to secondary mold damage. Check for the following indications of mold growth:

• Growth patterns in clusters or spots
  
• Irregular staining
  
• Black, blue green, blue, gray, white, or yellow coloration
  
• Fuzzy texture
  

Acoustical tiles are porous and tend to absorb dirt and moisture. As a result, this type of tile is particularly prone to mold growth.

Older Tiles

Staining can result from the materials and manufacturing processes used to make tiles in the past, as well as wear over the years. Older ceiling tiles may be:

• Covered in nicotine smoke residue
  
• Degrading and starting to flake or peel
  
• Made out of materials no longer in use
  

Up until the early 1980s, many tiles were made out of asbestos. Since then, mineral fiber has become the most common material.

Ultraviolet Lighting

The use of UV lighting can result in tile discoloration. Some facilities are exposed to more UV rays than others, such as:

• Clinics, labs, or manufacturing facilities that sterilize materials
  
• Locations that perform curing
  
• Facilities for nondestructive testing for design flaws
  

Frequent exposure to UV light can alter the color of ceiling tiles. It should not damage the tiles.

These are the most common causes of discolored ceiling tiles. If a commercial building has water damage and you suspect that tile mold may be the cause of discoloration, contact a remediation and restoration service in Somerset,WA.