Weep screed height above paved surfaces should be at least how many inches?

Weep screed height above paved surfaces should be at least how many inches?

• A. 3 inches
• B. 2 inches
• C. 1 inch
• D. 4 inches

Answer: (B)

Keeping the bottom edge of exterior cladding above paved surfaces to prevent moisture problems is the idea behind this requirement. The weep screed is the lower edge of the wall system that allows any moisture present behind the wall to drain out and helps keep the barrier from being breached by water. To minimize splash from rain or surface water and to prevent water from wicking up into the wall, it should be set at least two inches above paved surfaces. This small buffer keeps the bottom of the cladding out of the splash zone while still letting the drainage weep holes function properly. In very exposed locations or special site conditions, higher clearances may be used, but two inches is the standard minimum.

Keeping the bottom edge of exterior cladding above paved surfaces to prevent moisture problems is the idea behind this requirement. The weep screed is the lower edge of the wall system that allows any moisture present behind the wall to drain out and helps keep the barrier from being breached by water. To minimize splash from rain or surface water and to prevent water from wicking up into the wall, it should be set at least two inches above paved surfaces. This small buffer keeps the bottom of the cladding out of the splash zone while still letting the drainage weep holes function properly. In very exposed locations or special site conditions, higher clearances may be used, but two inches is the standard minimum.