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Reviewed by Tom ReillySenior Editorial Reviewer — Roofing, Carpentry & General Contracting

Wie te bellen · Carpenter

Ceiling sagging or drooping? Dit is wie je moet bellen

A sagging ceiling is both a cosmetic eyesore and a potential structural warning sign that demands prompt investigation. The causes range from harmless to serious. On the cosmetic end, old plaster-and-lath ceilings sag when the plaster keys break loose from the lath strips due to age and vibration — the plaster is no longer anchored and gravity pulls it down. This can be re-secured with plaster washers and screws ($200–$600 per room) or replaced with drywall ($1,500–$4,000 per room depending on size). On the structural end, water damage is the leading cause: a slow roof leak, burst pipe, or condensation from a poorly insulated attic saturates drywall or plaster until it swells and sags. Termite or carpenter-ant damage to ceiling joists weakens the framing. Overloaded attic insulation — especially blown-in insulation added on top of old batts — can exceed the ceiling's weight capacity. In rare cases, undersized joists or removed load-bearing walls cause structural deflection. A carpenter or contractor should inspect the attic from above to identify the root cause. If the issue is water, the source must be fixed first. Joist sistering (reinforcing) costs $200–$500 per joist; replacing a damaged section of drywall runs $300–$800. If structural repairs are needed, expect $1,000–$5,000 depending on scope. Never ignore a ceiling that is actively bulging or cracking — a sudden collapse can cause serious injury.

What's going on

How to fix ceiling sagging or drooping

Some "ceiling sagging or drooping" cases look simple, but getting it wrong almost always costs more than calling a pro: hidden leaks, fire risk, code violations, and insurance headaches. A licensed carpenter will diagnose the exact cause, use the right professional tools, and stand behind the repair. Most local pros offer free quotes and can visit the same day or the next.

Who to call

Carpenter

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Symptoms to look for

  1. 01

    Visible dip or bow in the ceiling surface

  2. 02

    Cracks running along the ceiling, especially near the center of the room

  3. 03

    Water stains or discoloration on the sagging area

  4. 04

    Plaster or drywall tape coming loose or bubbling

  5. 05

    Creaking or popping sounds from the ceiling when walking in the attic above

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Who should I call for: Ceiling sagging or drooping?

Call a licensed carpenter. Carpenters have the specialized training, tools, and insurance to diagnose ceiling sagging or drooping safely and stand behind the fix. Most offer free quotes and can visit the same day or the next.

Can I fix this myself?

Some minor cases can be handled DIY, but most require a licensed carpenter to avoid costly rework and safety risks. A free quote takes under a minute.

How fast can a pro come out?

Most carpenters offer same-day or next-day visits for non-emergency issues. True emergencies (burst pipes, gas smell, no heat in winter) are typically handled within 1–4 hours.

How much does it cost to fix?

Costs vary by severity and your location. Submit a free quote request to get real pricing from local pros in your area.

What are the signs of: Ceiling sagging or drooping?

Visible dip or bow in the ceiling surface. Cracks running along the ceiling, especially near the center of the room. Water stains or discoloration on the sagging area. Plaster or drywall tape coming loose or bubbling. Creaking or popping sounds from the ceiling when walking in the attic above.