Answer these 5 questions, then click "Analyze My Home" to see if your system is at risk.
1. Physical Damage CheckLook at the bottom edge of the metal. Is it bent upward, flattened, or smashed against the wall?
2. Corrosion CheckDo you see dark red/brown flaking rust ("scale rust") or holes eaten through the metal?
3. Separation CheckCan you slide a pen or your finger between the metal screed and the concrete foundation?
4. The "Buried" CheckIs the soil, grass, or concrete patio higher than the metal weep screed? (Is the metal buried?)
5. The "Paint" CheckLook closely at the tiny holes. Are they painted over, caulked shut, or clogged?
โ ๏ธ Risk 1: Blocked Drainage
The Issue: The drainage holes are smashed shut.
Water cannot get out: Because the metal is bent, water gets trapped inside the wall.
Rot Risk: When water sits inside the wall, it soaks into the wood framing and causes dry rot.
โ ๏ธ Risk 2: Rusted Metal
The Issue: The metal is breaking down.
Pest Entry Point: Holes in the rusted metal allow mice, ants, and termites to walk right into your walls.
Weak Walls: If the thick metal strip is rusted, the thin wire holding your stucco up is likely damaged too.
โ ๏ธ Risk 3: Gaps Behind the Wall
The Issue: There is a space between the metal and the house.
Hidden Pest Entry: Termites can build tunnels up the foundation behind the metal. You cannot see them, so they can cause damage for years without being noticed.
Mice: If a mouse can fit its nose in the gap, it can get into your wall.
โ ๏ธ Risk 4: Buried Drainage
The Issue: The drain is underground.
Water flows backward: Stucco walls need to drain. If the dirt or concrete is higher than the drain, water stays in the wall.
Sponge Effect: The stucco will suck moisture up from the wet ground and pull it into your house.
โ ๏ธ Risk 5: Painted-Over Holes
The Issue: The holes are clogged with paint.
Accidental Seal: Painters often spray over these holes by mistake.
Trapped Water: If the holes are plugged, water cannot leave the wall. It will eventually find a way into your wood framing instead.
Bottom Line: Weep holes allow water to exit. Gaps and rust allow pests and water to enter.
