Clogged Weeping Tile – What You Need To Know
Unlike the name suggests, weeping tiles are actually pipes that discharge underground water from around the perimeter of a home or from a basement. Exterior weeping tile manages water at ground level, and is placed in a trench around your home, whereas interior tile is most often used if the exterior tile has failed.
It is very important to keep on top of your weeping tile to make sure that it is working properly. If ignored, you’ll have a major flood on your hands. Read our article on flood damage prevention to save yourself the trouble.
Weeping Tile Maintenance
- Check your property for soggy soil.
- If your tile isn’t working, the ground around your home will be very soft and you’ll notice pooling water.
- Make sure your sump pump is operating. If not, take a look at our article on sump pump failure and what to do next.
- Run a hose near your exterior foundation wall then watch your sump pump pit. If the pit fills with water, your tile is working. Otherwise, it’s probably blocked.
Clean your weeping tile
If your tile is blocked with debris, plunge it with soapy water. If not, the pressure leads to cracks or leaks and the whole system needs to be replaced.
- Fill the basin and weeping tile with water and liquid soap. Do not allow it to overflow.
- Leave the soapy water for 30 mins to neutralize the odor.
- Pull the plunger out to allow the water to drain.
- Repeat several times and then rinse with clean water.
Other things to look out for include…
- A musty smell, indicating mildew or stagnant water.
- Damp areas under basement windows. This is an indication that water not being diverted from the home.
- Stained or peeling drywall.
The earlier you catch the signs of failing weeping tile the better! For weeping tile installation/repair, sump pump failure, or basement flooding, find your closest WINMAR location and our property restoration specialists are available to assist you 24/7.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the lifespan of weeping tile?
A: The lifespan depends on the material. Older clay and concrete pipe weeping tile can last several decades but is more prone to root intrusion and collapse. Modern plastic perforated pipe generally has a longer expected lifespan. However, blockage or failure can occur at any time, particularly in homes built before the 1980s.
Q: How do I know if my weeping tile has failed?
A: Signs of failed or blocked weeping tile include recurring basement water infiltration despite no apparent surface causes, wet basement walls after rainfall or snowmelt, persistent dampness, and white salt deposits (efflorescence) on foundation walls. Failed or blocked weeping tile can cause significant flooding. A professional inspection with a drain camera can confirm the diagnosis.
Q: Does WINMAR® repair weeping tile?
A: WINMAR® does not repair or replace weeping tile. However, if blocked or failed weeping tile has caused flooding or water damage to your property, WINMAR® is your first call for professional water damage restoration. We will work with you to coordinate the appropriate trades for weeping tile repair while we handle the restoration of your property.