There are weep holes in the some of the blocks on the bottom row, but no other pipes or water draining features. These blocks have simply separated, and the mortar has been "weathered" out. Since the blocks are stacked "alternately", I'm afraid the block above each space, may crack from the weight of the blocks above them. Is there a way to "shoot" mortar or fill in those spaces, avoid undue pressure from above?

Thanks for the feedback. I was scared of the stucco, but completely undecided. That cinches it. Now, does anyone have any suggestions for brands of paint for the ceiling or concrete blocks? Ceiling paint goes on tomorrow. I'll be at Porter Paint or Ben Moore at 7am tomorrow for that. May flip a coin since there is practically no chance of feedback before then. But I have a couple of days about the walls. Was so excited about Ben Moore masonry paint, but can't find anyone around here who carries it. Most dealers (I called 10) didn't even know they make it. Any suggestions for wall color would be welcome. Right now orange is in the lead. Hey, it can be painted over. Right? I'm really stressing about the brand of masonry paint so please give some feedback.

My SIL and I took out enough bricks and concrete blocks to make a doorway. Just bash with a sledge in between the webs and they crumple pretty quick. Had no problem with the rest of the wall. I think if you want a smooth end on the wall you have to replace all the blocks on the end, not just the half blocks. Then you can get all end blocks and half blocks for a smooth end.

perhaps, but i've been there 6 years and have never heard it. I heard the occassional "crack" in the attic, and i assume that's the cooling/contracting...but this is a tap/pop that I haven't heard before in 6 years. Not sure why it would start now.