What is a tapered levelling course?
A tapered levelling course is a course of brickwork, or a small group of courses, whose thickness varies along its length to take up a setting-out error or settlement, so that the courses above run level again. At one end the correction may span two or three courses, tapering to a single course at the other. In Dutch it is called a varken (literally “pig”) or schiftlaag. It is not the same as the levelling course at the base of a wall, which is the first course bedded dead level on the foundation.
Application
- After settlement. Where a wall has dropped out of level and new work is built on top, a tapered course brings the coursing back to a level line.
- Joining existing work. On extensions or when blocking up an opening, the courses do not always line up. A tapered course bridges the difference.
- Correcting gauge. If the course height drifts during bricklaying, correct it in one place rather than thickening or thinning the bed joints over the full height.
In facing brickwork the correction stays visible and often tells you something about the history of a building. Under render it disappears.
Tips and points of attention
- Cause first. A tapered course only corrects the appearance. If settlement is ongoing, have the foundations investigated before building on.
- Taper gently. Spread the difference over a good length so the change reads calmly.
- Keep the bond. Cut the bricks so the bond above continues normally.
- Historic buildings. Old correction courses are part of a building’s story; do not remove them without good reason.
Related terms
- Course height
- Levelling course
- Bond pattern
- Bed joint
- Spirit level
- Absolute settlement
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