What is a wild bond in brickwork?
Wild bond, in Dutch “wildverband”, is a brick bond without a fixed repeat, in which headers and stretchers are mixed seemingly at random but evenly distributed over the wall. The aim is a calm yet lively facade without a recognisable pattern. It is very common on Dutch facades. In a half-brick outer leaf, the headers are formed by half bricks (snap headers). It is related to the English “random bond”, though that term is also used for rubble stone walling.
Features
- No fixed sequence of courses as in English, Flemish or cross bond.
- Headers and stretchers alternate in varying order per course.
- Perpends of equal width, always offset from the course below.
- From a distance no pattern should show: no diagonals, clusters or “steps”.
Rules for a good wild bond
According to the Dutch brick industry association KNB, there is no statutory or national/European standard for wild bond. In practice rules of thumb are used, often written into the specification:
- No steps: headers or perpends should not line up diagonally over more than a limited number of courses. Specifications often mention a limit of six courses.
- No straight perpends: perpends directly above each other over several courses weaken the wall and stand out.
- No clusters: avoid several headers or stretchers side by side forming a noticeable group.
- Corners and stops: the bond must also work at corners, openings and movement joints. Use queen closers and three-quarter bats, but no very small pieces.
Bricklaying tips
- Sample panel: build or draw a sample (about 1 x 1 m) and have it approved before laying the whole facade.
- Do not freestyle: laying by feel often slips into repetition. Work from a bond drawing prepared in advance.
- Brick size: bonds with headers work best with bricks whose length equals two widths plus one perpend joint.
- Check from a distance: step back a few metres regularly to spot steps and clusters early.
Related terms
- Raking stretcher bond
- Header course
- Stretcher course
- Half-brick wall
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