What is a Pilaster?
A pilaster is a flat, rectangular column that projects from a wall as a wall reinforcement, without standing freely. Unlike a true column, a pilaster is not detached from the wall — it is structurally or decoratively attached to it. A pilaster typically has a base, a shaft, and a capital, just like a classical column.
Pilaster vs. column vs. wall thickening
| Element | Freestanding | Load-bearing | Projecting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Column | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Pilaster | No (in wall) | Sometimes | Yes |
| Wall thickening | No | No | No |
Applications
Structural
- Reinforcement of a long garden wall or boundary wall (prevents overturning)
- Additional support at a wall opening or gate
- Foundation stiffening for long walls
Decorative
- Classical facade articulation (columns projecting from the facade)
- Historic buildings, villas, church buildings
Pilaster in a garden wall: when is it required?
A masonry garden wall without pilasters can overturn at the following proportions:
| Wall thickness | Maximum height without pilaster |
|---|---|
| ½ brick (100 mm) | Max. 525 mm high |
| 1 brick (210 mm) | Max. 1,400 mm high |
| 1½ brick (320 mm) | Max. 1,800 mm high |
For taller walls, pilasters are required for stiffening. Rule of thumb: pilasters every 3 metres.
Building a pilaster yourself
- Plan the pilasters on the drawing: every 2.5–3 m, at least ½ brick deeper than the wall
- Tooth (interlock) the pilaster bricks with the main wall (alternate brick position each course)
- Make the pilaster 1 brick wide and 1 brick deep (as a reinforcing pilaster)
- Point neatly in the same bond pattern as the main wall
Related terms
- Column
- Buttress
- Toothing
- Masonry bond
- Bricklaying
- Fence post
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