What Are Weep Holes?: Relieving Pressure on Basement Walls

Weep Holes: What Are They?

When Are Weep Holes Necessary?

Several factors may necessitate weep holes. These include:

Frequent basement leaks may require more than weep holes to solve the problem. A thorough assessment and professional, tailored waterproofing solutions may be necessary to address the issue and keep your basement dry. Contact a foundation repair expert for a free inspection if you notice basement water or leaks.

Weep Hole Installation Types

Weep holes are essential for draining water from within building envelopes, preventing moisture buildup and potential damage. Here is a breakdown of various weep hole installation methods and how they suit different wall constructions.

Open-Head Joints

This method involves omitting mortar from the vertical joint between bricks during construction, creating a small gap at the top of the joint that allows water to drain. It is a traditional method used for brick cavity walls that allows trapped water within the cavity to escape. However, open-head joints are noticeable and may require additional flashing details like metal or plastic to prevent water infiltration.

Tube Inserts

Pre-cut plastic or metal tubes are inserted into the mortar joints during construction, creating a drainage channel for water through the wall. Tube inserts are used for brick or block cavity walls and are less noticeable than open-head joints. However, tube inserts can become ineffective due to potential mortar debris clogging during installation. Tube inserts require careful placement and might not be suitable for thicker walls.

Drilling

Small holes are drilled into the mortar joints or concrete block walls. Weep hole screens are installed to prevent insects and debris from entering while allowing water drainage. Drilling is suitable for concrete block foundation walls, retaining walls, and existing brick walls where other methods are not feasible. Professional installation is recommended to ensure proper placement and avoid damaging the foundation. Experts can navigate around the rebar and steel reinforcements, prevent damage to underlying utilities, and maintain the structural integrity of the building.

Consider Building Codes and Wall Materials

When installing weep holes, it’s essential to consider local building codes, which may specify their size, placement, and screening requirements. The chosen method should be compatible with the wall material and its thickness. Drilling existing walls or handling thicker walls is best left to experienced professionals. This ensures proper placement and helps avoid structural damage.

Weep Hole Alternatives

Traditional weep holes, though effective, can have drawbacks such as allowing insects to enter or becoming clogged. Here are some alternative systems for managing water within building envelopes:

The best alternative for your project depends on factors such as climate, building materials, and budget. Even with proper waterproofing, some water might still find its way through the foundation walls, making weep holes beneficial for drainage. In areas with high water tables or heavy rainfall, weep holes can serve as a crucial backup for a drainage system. Contact a foundation repair professional like JES to determine the most suitable system for your home.

Protect Your Home with Professional Waterproofing from JES

Basement Waterproofing FAQs

How Long Will Waterproofing a Basement Take?

Waterproofing a basement can take anywhere between a single day and a full week. The more extensive, constructive types of waterproofing will take significantly longer than applying sealants, for example. If you’re working with a contractor, be sure to talk to them about how long they see the process of waterproofing your basement taking.

If you’re waterproofing your basement on your own time, do your research in advance and make sure not to take on a project that’ll consume more time than you’re willing to commit.

How often should I inspect my basement for signs of water intrusion? 

It’s recommended to regularly check your basement, especially after heavy rainfalls or during seasons with increased precipitation. Monthly checks can help you spot early signs of water intrusion, allowing for timely intervention. 

Are there specific times of the year when basements are more prone to water issues? 

Basements can be susceptible to water intrusion during any season. However, periods of heavy rain or melting snow, such as in spring or after severe weather events, can heighten the risk. It’s also worth monitoring during prolonged rainy periods or rapid snowmelt. 

Related Resources

How to Waterproof Your Basement Foundation: 5 Steps

Ensuring your home’s longevity and safety starts from the ground up, and one of the most critical aspects of this is foundation waterproofing. This process not only protects the structural integrity of your home but also prevents a myriad of potential issues that can arise from water damage. In this guide, we will explore the […]

The 9 Best Basement Waterproofing Products You Need

Sourcing the right basement waterproofing products for your basement project is just as important as hiring the right contractor for the job. Get one wrong and you’ll be forced to shop around again. And that means extending timelines and digging deeper into your pockets for extra work hours. In this post, we highlight 9 important […]

Hydrostatic Pressure Destroying Your Basement? Here’s How We Fix It

Water-saturated soil will cause hydrostatic pressure on your basement walls, resulting in flooding of your lower levels. Here’s how to solve it.

Shaye Glisson

Shaye is an SEO Content Writer for Groundworks with over twelve years of experience creating helpful content across various industries, including home services and retail. She is a Gulf Coast native and writes from her firsthand knowledge of the area's hurricane and flood impacts on the local community. In her free time, Shaye enjoys exploring the local food and music scenes.