Weeping tiles are underground pipes installed around your foundation that keep water away
from your home. They are a crucial component of your drainage system. However, when a
weeping tile is not installed properly or is not diconnected from the city sewer, it can cause
a back up into your basement.
Watch the video below for an example of how it should be installed.
If your weeping tile and downspout are not disconnected, or if your plumbing contractor
connected the weeping tile into your main drain line instead of a sump pump pit, it's just a
matter of time before you get flooded.
In addition, having a backwater valve will not prevent flooding as the weeping tile water will
simply accumulate in the drain system (on the internal side of backwater valve) and will
eventually overflow into your basement drain, toilet or shower near by.
Here's an illustration curtesy of Region of Halton.
If you have been experiencing flooding despite having a backwater valve installed or would
like to get your weeping tile inspected - we can help.
Our Weeping Tile Services
Weeping tile inspection
Backwate valve inspection
Weeping tile & downspout diconnections
Sump pump installation & repairs
Instructions on claiming the rebate (if applicable)
SPEAK WITH A PLUMBER
Before we send someone out to inspect your drain lines we'd like to have a phone call to ensure we can help. Please click the button below to schedule your callback or call us directly.
AMAZING service & results! We had a sewer backup, the city wouldn't help without a 'proper access pt' and a previous plumber who cracked our toilet tank. Mike came out to investigate w/ camera, snaked the drains, helped us understand our options, talked w/ the city on our behalf, had the cleanout w/ back-water valve installed the next day & went out of his way to get us a new toilet (at cost) & even installed it for us FREE when the other guy wouldn't even come back to look. We have already recommended Mike & Canadian Rooter to friends & family. This company really came through for us!
- Michelle & Mark
A sewage backup required emergency work, inside and outside. Naz came out to assess the plumbing situation and had a crew there quickly. The front lawn was dug up and the clog located and repaired. A backup valve was installed and the hole filled in. Because a large tarp was used, the lawn looked the same after the work was completed. Efficient, speedy, friendly service with explanations along the way to satisfy our questions. Because of two major flooded basements from rain storms, a waterproofing of the basement was required. Naz was called again. Again his crew arrived on time, completed the work quickly, protected the work site, and cleaned up well afterwards. They even changed a corroded downpipe that was not included in the original estimate,. I was totally satisfied with both projects. Well done Naz, Walter and the others!
- Bob
After having the sewer back up last year, we were not willing to live that nightmare again. The guys put in a back flow valve and sump pump. All the staff were very professional. They showed up in a timely manner. I highly recommend this company.
- Cathy
Exceptional Service, second to none! My family was devastated due to numerous basement flooding each time it rained this spring. Mike came to the rescue and offered solutions to our problems. Each time they did a project, his team was efficient, courteous, and professional. Mike walked us through the specifics of installing a sump pump and waterproofing. He ironed our worries gave us peace of mind. Our sump pump works efficiently. The landscape at my front garden was exactly the same before the excavation. As if no one stepped on it! They really clean after their debris. That big job was done in two days. The quality of their work is outstanding. Their attitude is great. Nick fixed the leak on our meter working around the time slot when the city could shut off form the city's main line. I recommended Canadian Rooter to my neighbour and she called Mike the next day. She was also happy about the service (sump pump), and called them for another project. I am a very satisfied customer!
- Josie
FAQ's
A weeping tile, also known as a French drain, is a type of drainage system that is installed around the perimeter of a home's foundation. It is designed to collect and redirect groundwater away from the foundation and prevent it from seeping into the basement or crawlspace.
A weeping tile consists of a perforated pipe that is buried in a trench around the foundation of the home. The pipe is typically surrounded by a layer of gravel or other porous material that allows water to filter into the pipe.
The weeping tile is designed to collect groundwater that would otherwise seep into the foundation and cause damage. The collected water is then directed away from the foundation and either released into a storm drain or directed to a sump pump for removal.
Weeping tiles are commonly used in areas with high water tables or heavy rainfall, as well as in homes built on clay soils that are prone to expanding and contracting with changes in moisture levels.
Regular maintenance of weeping tiles is important to ensure that they are functioning properly and preventing water damage to the home. This can include regular cleaning of the drains, inspection for damage or blockages, and repair or replacement of damaged sections.
There are several signs that may indicate a malfunctioning weeping tile system, including:
Water in the basement or crawlspace: If you notice standing water or dampness in your basement or crawlspace, this could be a sign that your weeping tile system is not functioning properly. Water may be seeping in through cracks in the foundation or gaps in the weeping tile.
Foul odors: If you notice a foul smell in your basement or crawlspace, this could be a sign that water is not draining properly through the weeping tile system. This can lead to the buildup of bacteria and other harmful substances that can cause unpleasant odors.
Mold or mildew: If you notice mold or mildew growing in your basement or crawlspace, this could be a sign that there is excess moisture in the area. This may be caused by a malfunctioning weeping tile system that is not effectively draining water away from the foundation.
Cracks in the foundation: If you notice cracks in your foundation, this could be a sign that water is seeping into the foundation and causing damage. This can be caused by a malfunctioning weeping tile system that is not effectively directing water away from the foundation.
If you notice any of these signs, it is important to have your weeping tile system inspected by a professional plumber or foundation specialist. They can assess the system for damage or blockages and recommend the appropriate repairs or maintenance to ensure that your home is protected from water damage.
The cost of repairing a weeping tile system can vary depending on a number of factors, including the extent of the damage, the location of the problem, and the complexity of the repair.
In general, the cost of repairing a weeping tile system can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. For minor repairs, such as clearing a blockage or patching a small hole, the cost may be relatively low. However, for more extensive repairs, such as replacing a damaged section of the weeping tile or excavating and rebuilding the entire system, the cost can be much higher.
It's important to have your weeping tile system inspected by a professional to determine the extent of the damage and the recommended repairs. They can provide you with a detailed estimate of the costs involved and help you understand the best course of action to protect your home from water damage.
The time it takes to repair a weeping tile can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the complexity of the repair. For minor repairs, such as clearing a blockage or patching a small hole, the repair can often be completed in a few hours.
However, for more extensive repairs, such as replacing a damaged section of the weeping tile or excavating and rebuilding the entire system, the repair can take several days or even weeks to complete. This is because these types of repairs may require excavation around the perimeter of the foundation, removal and replacement of soil, and installation of new drainage pipes and materials.
It's important to have your weeping tile system inspected by a professional to determine the extent of the damage and the recommended repairs. They can provide you with a timeline for the repair and help you understand the best course of action to protect your home from water damage.
