The gap between bricks, especially when referring to specific openings intentionally left in a wall, is commonly known as a weep hole.
Understanding Weep Holes
Weep holes are vital features in brickwork, particularly in cavity wall construction. They are small gaps left in the mortar joints of the bottom course of bricks or at points above windows, doors, or other features.
Based on the reference provided, a brick gap is also known as a weep hole.
Function of Weep Holes
Weep holes serve critical functions for the health and longevity of a brick wall:
- Ventilation: They allow wind to circulate inside the wall cavity. This moving air is crucial for drying the cavity space.
- Moisture Removal: The circulating air removes evaporated water from the cavity to the outside. This process is essential for preventing moisture damage, mold growth, and structural issues caused by trapped water.
- Drainage: While primarily for ventilation and drying, weep holes also act as drainage points, allowing any water that accumulates in the cavity (from rain penetration or condensation) to escape.
These small gaps are strategically placed to ensure proper airflow and drainage, protecting the building structure from internal moisture build-up.
Other Types of Gaps
While "brick gap" according to the reference specifically relates to weep holes, it's worth noting that other materials and purposes exist for gaps or joints in brickwork. For example, the reference mentions that a foam item sometimes seen in a gap is called an expansion joint filler.
Expansion joints are larger gaps built into walls to allow for the natural expansion and contraction of building materials due to temperature changes. These joints are often filled with materials like foam or flexible sealants to protect the gap while still allowing movement. This differs from the primary function of weep holes, which are open or screened channels for ventilation and drainage.
In summary, when discussing intentional gaps designed for airflow and moisture management within a brick wall cavity, the term you are likely referring to is a weep hole.
