To maintain the structural integrity of a building, numerous components come into play, some often small and seemingly unimportant, until a failure occurs. The weep hole is often overlooked in buildings but is essential for long-term durability and safety. We explore why they exist and the importance of inspecting weep holes.
What is the purpose of a weep hole?
Weep holes are small openings left in the outer walls of buildings, primarily designed to allow water to escape from within the building structure. Their primary purpose is to prevent water accumulation that can lead to various structural issues including dampness, mould, and even more severe issues like structural damage. They are located near the foundation of brick or stone buildings and allow for air circulation which helps the internal areas of the walls to dry out effectively.
What are the Australian Standards for weep holes?
Australian standards for building construction specify clear guidelines regarding the implementation and maintenance of weep holes. According to these standards (AS 3700-2018 and AS/NZS 2699.1), the placement, size, and distribution of weep holes are critical for ensuring effective moisture management within the building structures. Specifically, these standards outline that weep holes should be placed at least every 1200mm along the base of walls and immediately above the flashing layers in windows and cavity walls.
The standards also insist on a minimum opening size for each weep hole to ensure that they are not too small to function effectively. These guidelines are designed to prevent any blockages that may compromise their functionality. Adherence to these standards is therefore essential for a building’s integrity and compliance with safety regulations.
What happens if your house doesn’t have weep holes?
In the absence of weep holes, excess moisture trapped within the walls can lead to a range of structural issues, including but not limited to, the softening of timber frames, degradation of wall materials, and potentially the weakening of the foundation.
Subsequently, the buildup of moisture can create an ideal environment for mould growth and termite infestation, which come with their own sets of problems and require costly pest control measures.
All these factors can drastically reduce the value of a property, complicating issues like sales and insurance claims. Financially, the costs associated with repairing moisture damage can be substantial, often far exceeding those that would have been incurred through regular inspection and maintenance of weep holes.
Why do weep holes need to be inspected?
Weep holes require regular inspection to ensure they continue to perform effectively. Over time, weep holes may become blocked by debris, soil, insect nests, or even accidental sealing during painting or rendering activities. A building inspection helps in identifying such issues, ensuring their continued effectiveness
Prospective owners should ensure that the pre-purchase building inspection includes a detailed look at the state of weep holes as it is a small detail that can lead to significant repercussions if overlooked. Regular maintenance, guided by a professional inspector’s findings, can avert the gradual degradation of building components, maintaining the structural integrity and health standards of the property.
Contact SURE Building Inspections Perth for your pre-purchase building inspection and get a same-day report.
