Weep holes
Small openings at the base of a masonry veneer that let water that has penetrated the veneer drain back out.
What is Weep holes?
What is Weep holes?
Brick and stone veneers are not watertight. Water passes through the masonry and runs down the back face to flashing at the base, where weep holes let it escape. When weeps are missing, mortared shut, or buried by soil, mulch or a later patio, that water has nowhere to go and is driven into the sheathing and framing instead. Inspectors check that weeps are present above grade, above windows and doors, and at the base of the wall, and that they are open. It is a small detail that explains a large share of otherwise puzzling interior moisture on veneer-clad homes.