Not all patios are constructed with permeable paving. For those spaces that are built with traditional pavers, you must consider drainage, especially if you have a retaining wall or other enclosure that may trap water during a downpour. One way to ensure your patio stays nice and dry is to install weep holes.

These weep holes are different from the type of weep hole used in home masonry. Constructed by staggering a length of PVC pipe into the construction of the wall. This allows water to flow through the pipe to the other side of the wall.

A properly installed patio will be graded to slope away from the foundation of the home, meaning the water will also travel away from the home. When selecting locations for your weep holes, be sure to pay attention to where water may collect. For instance, there’s no sense in installing holes at the upward slope of your patio.