Condensation occurs at the point where cold air meets warm air. There is no better example then when a chilled beverage is placed at room temperature. Water droplets begin to appear on the outer surface of the glass or can. The same is true with the water pipes in your basement. Chances are good that the ceiling of your basement is warmer than the temperature of the water running through the pipes and, hence, the condensation. The reverse could be true if the pipes contain very hot water and the basement ceiling is cold.

We suggest that you insulate the water lines with prefabricated neoprene pipe insulation. It is purchased according to the size (diameter) of the pipe and is quite easy to install. Most brands have a self-sealing seam that is activated by peeling back a strip of plastic.

By the way, once dry, you can conceal the water stains on your suspended ceiling panels using a sealer/stain blocker in an aerosol spray can.