ᐅ Drainage openings are required according to DIN standards. Are these necessary?

Hello,
I am currently building a house. The wall structure is as follows (from inside to outside):
- 24cm (9.5 inches) Poroton T12
- 14cm (5.5 inches) mineral wool core insulation with WLG032 thermal conductivity (water-repellent)
- 1cm (0.4 inches) cavity gap
- 11.5cm (4.5 inches) Egernsunder facing bricks (clay bricks)

According to DIN standards, drainage openings are required. However, some publications suggest that these might be counterproductive (due to driving rain, pests, etc.). What do you think? Are these openings really necessary? I have a very soft brick (similar to a clay brick) that absorbs water well but also releases it effectively. Even if condensation occurs, it should be expelled to the outside efficiently. Does anyone have experience or advice?
Thanks

Hello,
yes, drainage openings are necessary. Any water that accumulates must be properly drained away.
The brick cladding will definitely not allow water to pass through; otherwise, it wouldn’t be considered a brick cladding, since it must not absorb water to ensure frost resistance.
The drainage openings should be at least 10cm (4 inches) above the eventual ground level, preferably higher to stay out of the splash water zone.
Screens are available to protect against insects.

Regards.

Hello,

the brick I ordered is a real clay brick (not a tile brick). When I put it in a bucket of water, it absorbs the water. With a brick that doesn’t breathe, the water can only escape through the joints. So, drainage openings would definitely have to be present, but I don’t think that’s the case with my brick. There are also research results from the Fraunhofer Institute. They also question these openings. Does anyone have experience with closed drainage openings?

I would not recommend using highly absorbent facing bricks. When they get wet and are then exposed to frost, pieces can gradually flake off, especially on those exterior walls that don’t dry out in the sun. I am experiencing this issue on my investment property from 1980, particularly on the windward side exposed to driving rain and around the base of the walls. There are also some unsightly white efflorescence marks. Some bricks have already been replaced by the previous owner. Fortunately, there are still some spare facing bricks stored in the attic.

I have considered whether it might be possible to apply a protective surface coating afterward to reduce water penetration.

The Egernsund clinker bricks I chose have been a proven material for centuries. They are widely used in historic preservation projects. I have now decided on this brick. Yesterday, 16,700 pieces were ordered. Do you have drainage openings?