Weeping tile is a type of piping that is used as part of drainage systems, usually with underground drainage. These porous pipes work with formations known as aggregates to allow the collection of excess water from the surrounding ground, effectively reducing the amount of groundwater in the area.
The design of weeping tile is very simple. The porous pipe itself is usually composed of hard plastic. Along the body of the pipe, small slits are cut lengthwise into the surface. It is these slits that allow water from the ground to seep into the pipe and be directed away from the area. The pipe normally ends at some collection point, such as a storm sewer or a sump pump.
In order to prevent soil from working into the slits in the piping, it is surround by aggregate, another name for stones or rocks. A layer of rocks is placed around the pipe, effectively creating a barrier between it and the soil. Water can easily flow between the rocks and reach the slits in the tile.
The use of weeping tile helps to increase the efficiency of many different types of drainage systems. The piping helps to direct the flow of water away from the area and into the draining system proper. Once there, the water can be transported away from the area, where it can be dumped into a city sewage system or used for irrigation purposes.
When used with sump pumps, weeping tile is normally installed just below the concrete flooring in a basement. Moisture seeps through the concrete and into the aggregate, eventually making its way to the pipe and then into the sump pump. Using this approach helps to keep the moisture and humidity level in the basement from becoming uncomfortable. The tile can also help minimize the development of mildew in the enclosed space. It is especially helpful if the weather conditions have saturated the ground with water, and can prevent the need for costly repairs to the basement.
