The Power of Weep Holes: Masonry's Moisture Managers

Image from a job we did showing weep holes above and below a window detail

Weep holes in masonry are small openings intentionally placed near the bottom of walls and around openings to manage moisture effectively. They prevent water accumulation, which can lead to issues like mold and frost/ water deterioration.

Weep holes also promote air circulation, helping to expel trapped moisture and preventing erosion of mortar joints, especially in rainy areas. These openings are installed during construction, either by voiding a joint, or by installing an engineered plug, and require periodic checks to ensure they remain clear of debris.

As a property owner it is important to understand that weep holes play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of your houses armor. Many of our clients ask about these open joints and if they should be filling or blocking them. We always advise clients to avoid the temptation to fill these openings, as doing so can compromise the system's ability to manage moisture. We can instead be hired to properly install the correct weep hole covers to allow the system to work correctly while minimizing some of the effects of having the open holes in the joint work.

Regular inspections and cleaning of these spots can contribute to the overall resilience of the building.