Softboard ceiling tiles sagging

Cause

Tiles were inadequately fixed

Repair

  • insert additional fixings. Nailing can be done with pairs of 40 x 1.6 mm galvanised panel pins driven at an angle and punched just below the surface. Stapling is also possible

Cause

The softboard has absorbed moisture 

Repair

  • identify and address the source of the high moisture levels:

    • if there is a leaking pipe, tank or cylinder in the roof space, identify and repair it or call a licensed plumber to locate and make the repair

    • for other types of leak (for example, in claddings or flashings) consult a registered building surveyor

    • if damp subfloor air is moving into the roofspace via a brick veneer cavity, block off the open subfloor area at the bottom of the wall. Address the damp subfloor problem – see Subfloor – damp soil

    • if kitchen and bathroom extractor fans are discharging into the roof space, install ducting to extract the damp air to the outside

    • if there are older-style recessed downlights in the kitchen or bathroom, they may be allowing steam into the roofspace. Replaced with IC or IC-F labelled downlights which can be covered with insulation. Alternatively, fill the holes and install new fittings mounted on the ceiling

    • if there are high moisture levels within the house, install a rangehood over the cooktop and vent the cooking steam outside; install an exhaust vent near the shower in the bathroom and vent the steam outside, or install a shower dome above the shower; avoid using unflued gas heaters inside; avoid drying clothes inside

  • when the moisture source has been addressed and the roofspace is dry, replace the softboard with a new ceiling

  • if the moisture is so extensive that it has left the bulk thermal insulation above the ceiling saturated, the effectiveness of the insulation will be greatly reduced. It should not be reused – replace with new insulation.

Cause

The ceiling lining has had weight applied such as a person standing on the lining instead of joists in the roof space

Repair

  • insert additional fixings or supports if that will make a difference, or replace affected tiles or the whole ceiling