Chain bond (Dutch “kettingverband”) is a collective name for masonry bonds in which headers and stretchers alternate so that the headers in successive courses line up above one another and together form a “chain”. The headers (the short ends of the brick) therefore fall on the same vertical line each time, with one or more stretchers between them.
How it works
In a chain bond the position of header and stretcher changes per course, but in such a way that the headers run vertically:
- Flemish/Nordic bond — one header followed by two stretchers per course
- English bond — one header followed by three stretchers per course
Because the headers stand above one another and the perpends are staggered, the result is a bond that is both structurally strong and decorative.
Application
- Facing brickwork — where the regular, rhythmic pattern is wanted
- Load-bearing walls — the good bonding (headers reaching through the wall thickness) suits loaded walls
- Restoration — to match historic brickwork
Points to note
- Watch the alignment of the headers; a crooked chain stands out at once
- Mix headers and stretchers deliberately; with faulty bonding the perpends run through and weaken the strength
- Calculate the dimensions in advance so the bond works out at corners and openings
Related terms
- Masonry bond
- Cross bond
- Half-brick wall
- Closer
- Soldier course
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