
Case Study: Defeating Water Stains on a Kitchen Ceiling with SPO Shellac Stain and Odour Blocker
Highlight
- Stops Water Marks: Permanently blocks unsightly brown/yellow stains.
- Quick Dry Time: Repaint the same day for minimal disruption.
- Trusted UK Expertise: Benefit from local technical support and proven results.
- Ultra-Fast Drying: Ready for overcoating in just 30 minutes, minimising project delays.
Introduction
When a leak in the bathroom above leads to discoloured patches on the kitchen ceiling, even multiple coats of emulsion might not suffice. This case study reveals how a UK homeowner overcame persistent water stains using SPO Shellac Stain & Odour Blocker—gaining a perfectly white finish that hasn’t bled through since application.
Background & Challenge
Client Background
After fixing a plumbing leak in the bathroom, the homeowner repainted the kitchen ceiling. Despite trying various primers, the brown/yellow water stains kept showing through.
Challenge
- Recurring Stains: Water damage marks bled through conventional paint.
- Aesthetic Concerns: The kitchen is a communal, high-visibility area, so the stains were noticeable.
- Frustration & Extra Cost: Repeated painting attempts wasted time and money.
Initial Conditions
A brown stain had formed on the kitchen ceiling where the leak originated. Standard primers lightened it temporarily, but never fully blocked it.
The Solution & Implementation

How the Product Was Used
- Surface Prep: The ceiling was lightly cleaned, and any loose paint was removed.
- Shellac Primer: SPO Shellac Stain & Odour Blocker was applied with a brush around the main stained area, then rolled across the entire ceiling for uniform coverage.
- Rapid Drying: Within 30 minutes, the primer was touch-dry and ready for an emulsion topcoat.
- Final Coat: An ordinary kitchen ceiling paint was used, resulting in a seamless white finish.
Our technical team advised on ensuring the leak was fully resolved and recommended applying shellac in a slightly larger area to blend seamlessly.
Results & Customer Feedback
Outcomes
- Fully Sealed Stains: No more brown stains or bleed-through after the topcoat.
- Faster Turnaround: The quick-drying shellac sped up the entire project.
- Clean, Bright Ceiling: Restored a fresh, white finish, essential for a busy kitchen.
Testimonial
“We had water stains that never seemed to go away, but SPO Shellac sealed them in one go. Our ceiling looks brand new!”
— Mark D., Homeowner in Leeds

Further Reading
- Read our main blog on SPO Shellac Stain & Odour Blocker for more details
- View the product here: SPO Shellac Stain & Odour Blocker
Conclusion
For stubborn water stains caused by leaks, SPO Shellac Stain & Odour Blocker offers a proven UK solution that permanently locks in discolouration. Skip endless coats of paint—shellac’s quick-drying formula ensures you can finish the job in a single day.
Contact Us
Our technical team includes qualified paint inspectors with extensive manufacturing and supply knowledge. We're here to support you—whether you need advice, help with this product, or guidance on other paint projects.
- Live Chat: On our website (bottom-right corner)
- Phone: 01482 222421
- Email: info@specialistpaintsonline.co.uk
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Business Hours:
- Mon–Thu: 8:30 AM–5:00 PM
- Fri: 8:30 AM–3:45 PM