Ever noticed those little gaps in the brickwork of your home and wondered what they're for? They're weepholes, and they're an important part of how your walls drain and dry out.
Weepholes let moisture escape from the cavity behind your brickwork, preventing damp and mould. Here's what they are, where they go, and how to keep them working.
C11 - Enclosed Stage Inspection Checklist
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Last updated 5 Oct 2026 · Revision 1 · Free updates for life
Checklist Type: Major (Enclosed Stage)
Form Factor: Fillable, print-ready PDF (A4, 35 pages)
When to use: Enclosed (lock-up) stage: brickwork and external cladding
A 285-point enclosed stage checklist for brickwork, masonry, fibre cement and foam cladding. Check design, flashings, ties, joints and finish as your home is closed in.
What Are Weepholes?
Weepholes are small openings, usually open vertical joints with no mortar, in the outer skin of brickwork. In brick veneer and cavity brick walls, some rain always gets through the bricks into the cavity. It runs down the back of the bricks, hits the flashing or damp-proof course, and drains out through the weepholes before it can cause damage.
When are weepholes installed? The bricklayer builds them in as the walls go up, in the course of bricks just above the flashing or damp-proof course.
How do weepholes work? Gravity drains the water down and out through the weepholes, and the openings let air move through the cavity so it can dry out.
Why do they matter? Without them, water collects in the cavity and can damage the frame, insulation and linings, and encourage mould. Weepholes keep walls dry and your home healthy.
Where Are Weepholes Installed?
Weepholes sit in the brick course just above the damp-proof course and flashings: at the base of the wall, and above window and door heads. They're spaced no more than 1.2 m apart.
Keep them clear of garden beds. Don't let garden beds, mulch, paving or render cover your weepholes. Keep the ground level well below them. That also keeps your termite inspection zone clear, which matters for your termite protection.
How to Maintain Your Weepholes for Optimal Drainage
Some basic maintenance keeps them working. Check them once a year and after big storms.
Clear debris
Dirt, leaves, mulch and spider webs can block weepholes. Clear them gently with a soft brush or vacuum. Never spray water into them, as that pushes water into the wall cavity.
Inspect for damage
Check the brickwork and mortar around your weepholes for cracks or damage. If you notice crumbling mortar or broken bricks, have it assessed and repaired by a licensed bricklayer.
Prevent pest infestation
Weepholes can attract insects, rodents and reptiles looking for shelter. Weephole covers or mesh keep pests out while still allowing drainage and airflow. Check they stay secure and clear of debris.
Conclusion
So now you know what weepholes are and why they matter: they drain water out of your wall cavity and keep your home dry.
Check them once a year and after big storms, keep garden beds and paving well below them, and never hose into them. If one looks blocked or damaged, get it checked. A quick fix now could save you a world of trouble later.
