Written by Stucco Champions — Southern California’s Authority on Exterior Plastering.
Where Can I Buy Weep Screed? An Expert Guide to Sourcing the Right Metal
Weep screed is the single most critical waterproofing component on your stucco home. Yet, if you walk into a generic hardware store, you will likely buy the wrong one. Because stucco systems vary by thickness (3-coat vs. 1-coat) and material (Galvanized vs. Vinyl), sourcing the correct profile is not as simple as buying lumber.
This guide breaks down where to find professional-grade lath accessories in Southern California, how to save money, and the logistical challenges of transporting them.
1. The "Big Box" Store Trap (Home Depot / Lowe's)
While convenient, major home improvement chains are rarely the best choice for stucco lath accessories. Here is why pros avoid them:
- Incorrect "Ground" Depth: Most box stores stock weep screed designed for "One-Coat" stucco (1/2" or 5/8" ground). If you use this on a traditional "Three-Coat" home (which requires a 7/8" ground), your wall will be too thick for the metal, leading to drainage failure.
- Limited Material: They often stock vinyl accessories. While vinyl is good for coastal areas, many homeowners prefer the rigidity of galvanized steel for straight lines.
- Damage Risk: The metal stock in these aisles is often bent, twisted, or damaged by customers, making it impossible to set a straight line on your foundation.
2. The Professional Solution: Lath & Plaster Supply Yards
To get the correct material, you must visit a dedicated "Lath and Plaster" supply yard or a masonry yard (e.g., Hub, Westside, or local independent yards). They offer:
- Variety of Profiles: They stock the standard #7 Foundation Weep Screed in all grounds (1/2", 5/8", 7/8", and 1-3/8").
- Expert Knowledge: The counter staff understands local codes. If you tell them you are in Newport Beach, they will likely recommend a Vinyl or Zinc screed to prevent salt-air corrosion.
- Cost Savings: Believe it or not, specialty yards are often 30–50% cheaper than big box stores for metal products because they buy in massive bulk.
3. Know Your Specs Before You Go
Don't just ask for "weep screed." You need to know three things to get the right part:
- The Ground (Depth): This is how far the metal sticks out from the wall.
Existing older home? Usually 7/8".
Newer track home? Could be 1/2" or 5/8". Measure your existing stucco thickness first. - The Flange (Height): The back vertical leg. Code usually requires a minimum 3.5-inch vertical attachment flange.
- The Material:
Galvanized: Standard for inland areas.
Vinyl (PVC): Essential for coastal homes (no rust).
Zinc/Stainless: High-end, rust-proof metal options.
4. The Logistics Warning: "The 10-Foot Problem"
This is the most common mistake DIYers make. Weep screed (and all stucco trims) come in 10-foot lengths. They are rigid and cannot be folded.
Do not show up in a sedan. A 10-foot stick of metal will stick out of a standard SUV by 3-4 feet. You need a truck with a rack, or you must be prepared to flag the load safely. If you try to bend them to fit in the car, you ruin the screed.
5. Sourcing Hard-to-Find Profiles
If you are matching a specific historic profile (like a copper weep screed or an extended 6-inch flange for retrofitting), local yards can special order from manufacturers like Stockton Products or CEMCO.
Note on Matching: Always bring a physical photo and a measurement of your existing screed to the counter. "Eyeballing it" usually results in a return trip.
6. Conclusion: Don't Compromise the Foundation
Weep screed is the exit door for moisture in your walls. Buying a cheap, mismatched part from a general store to save a trip will cost you thousands in rot repair later. Go to the supply yard, buy the commercial-grade #7 screed, and ensure your home stays dry.
Last week, we discussed Integrating Weep Screed with Rainscreens in Stucco Systems. If you are building a high-performance wall with a rainscreen drainage mat, your choice of weep screed changes significantly. Check out that guide for details.