Water table (architecture)

A water table is a projection of masonry on the lower outside of a wall, slightly above the ground, or at the top of a wainscot section of a wall (in this case also known as a sill).

Brick water table at Reads Landing School in Minnesota, USA

It is both a functional and architectural feature that consists of a projection that deflects water running down the face of a building away from lower courses or the foundation.^[1][2] A water table may also be primarily decorative, as found near the base of a wall or at a transition between materials, such as from stone to brick. The top of the water table is often sloped or chamfered to throw off water.^[3]

Water table behind St. George's Church, Norwich, Norfolk, England

Often damp proofing is placed at the level of the water table to prevent upward wicking of ground water.^[4]