Water damage repair · St Andrews & Fife
After the leak. Before the paint.
A dry looking stain does not tell the whole story. I assess the decorative damage after the source of water has been fixed, then plan repairs and repainting only when the background is sufficiently dry and sound.
Discuss water damage repair
First, understand the surface.
I ask what caused the damage and what has been done to resolve it. Loose coatings, softened plasterboard and contaminated areas need assessment before being covered. The condition of the material, not a fixed number of days since the leak, determines when decoration can begin.
Then, specify the finish.
Ordinary emulsion may not prevent a water stain from showing through again. I select a compatible stain blocking product for a suitable dry background, followed by the specified decorative coats. Repainting a complete surface may be needed for an even appearance.
Leave it ready to look after.
Watch for renewed staining, odour or softening and report it promptly. A recurring mark can indicate that the source has not been resolved. Keep any building repair records alongside the decorating specification.
What needs separate attention
This is decorative repair, not leak detection, plumbing, flood restoration or mould remediation. Active water ingress, unsafe materials and unsound substrates need the appropriate specialist first.
Read the Aethos StandardBefore you enquire
A few practical questions.
The right advice depends on the surface in front of us. These are useful starting points.
Can you paint over a water stain straight away?
No. The source must be fixed and the background sufficiently dry and sound. Covering damp material risks trapping moisture and concealing a continuing problem.
Do you fix the leak as well?
No. Plumbing, roofing or building repairs need the appropriate trade. I assess the decorative work after the cause has been resolved.
What if the stained area has mould?
The moisture source and extent of contamination need assessment before decorating. Specialist remediation may be required. Stain blocking paint is not a substitute for addressing the cause.
Often considered together.
View all servicesFrom the first look to the final coat
Tell me what you
want to change.
A room, a piece of furniture or the outside of your home. I will help establish what it needs and set out the work in writing.