What About Weep Screed Vent Plugs?

Neal and Melissa recently moved to Arizona and are concerned about bugs entering their home through the weep screed holes in their stucco walls.

They believe their home has #7 angled weep screed and are seeking information about the size of the weep screed holes and where to purchase vented plugs for these holes. They’ve included photos of their home’s weep screed and an example of a vented plug they found online.

Question from Neal & Melissa:
Hi Ryan, Great information! We recently moved to AZ and are concerned about bugs getting in the wall through the weep screed holes. I believe we have the #7 angled weep screed and would like to know what size the holes are and where we may purchase weep screed "vented" hole plugs? Please see pic of our home's exterior wall and an example of a vented plug we found on the internet. Many Thanks! Neal & Melissa

Weep Screed Holes

Answer: Hi Neal & Melissa, thank you for your question and the details you provided. I get asked about bugs and other critters getting in through the weep screed holes sometimes but have never seen these types of plugs myself.

Bugs in Weep Screed Holes – A Common Concern?

Bugs entering through weep screed holes is usually not a concern for most people, as it would be quite difficult for insects to gain access into the house itself via these small openings.

The weep screed is designed to allow moisture to escape and provide ventilation, not as an entry point into the home. However, I understand why you might wonder about this, so I’ll address your concerns and provide insight to your question regardless.

Weep Screed Hole Sizes

The weep holes on a #7 angled weep screed are generally small, usually ranging between roughly 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch in diameter, depending on the manufacturer. These holes are essential for allowing moisture to escape from behind the stucco while providing ventilation.

Weep Hole Vented Plugs

Vented plugs are a great solution for preventing bugs from entering while still allowing airflow and drainage. They’re typically made of plastic or other durable materials with smaller openings or holes to maintain ventilation and drainage.

Where to Buy:

  • Online Retailers: You can find vented weep screed plugs on platforms like Amazon, eBay, or specialty building supply websites.

  • Local Suppliers: Check with local stucco or building material suppliers in Arizona. Some companies may carry these plugs in bulk or know of a supplier who does, but it is such a specialty product and I don't think you'll have very good luck, in my opinion.

DIY Alternative

If you’re unable to find plugs that fit your weep screed, you can create a more DIY solution:

  • Use a mesh screen material (like steel wool) and cut small pieces to fit in the weep holes. Make them large enough to fit loosely in the holes to still allow for air and water to pass through freely.

  • This solution is not as durable or functional as pre-made plugs but can work in a bind.

Important Considerations

  • Don’t Block Ventilation: Ensure the plugs or screens you use are vented to allow airflow. Blocking the weep holes entirely could lead to moisture buildup issues, causing long-term damage.

  • Inspect Regularly: Check the weep screed periodically for clogs or damage. Dust, debris, and insect nests can accumulate over time, reducing ventilation efficiency.

Neal & Melissa, while bugs getting through the weep screed holes into the house itself is unlikely, adding vented plugs to your weep screed can give you peace of mind and prevent any unwanted pests from hanging around. It’s a simple, effective solution that maintains the functionality of your stucco system.

If you have more questions or need help sourcing specific products, feel free to reach out—I’m happy to assist further!

About the author

The Stucco Guy

My name is Ryan and I have been a licensed stucco contractor for many years and I feel that there is a huge "knowledge gap" when it comes to stucco, in particular. I hope you find the information here useful, and if you have a question for me fill out this Q & A form, so I can answer those questions better. Thanks for stopping by!

Leave a comment here or if you have a more indepth question that needs to be answered, fill out my Q and A form and attach a few pictures (link in author bio box above) to give me a clear picture of what's going on. Thanks for stopping by!