English bond is a bricklaying pattern where courses of stretchers (long side of brick) and courses of headers (short side) alternate, with the perpend joints forming a cross pattern. It’s one of the strongest bond patterns and is used for load-bearing masonry. In English bond, a perpend joint never aligns directly with the one in the course above or below.
How does English bond look?
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Course 1: [stretcher] [stretcher] [stretcher] (header course)
Course 2: [ header ] [ header ] [ header ] (stretcher course)
Course 3: [stretcher] [stretcher] [stretcher] (header course, offset)
Course 4: [ header ] [ header ] [ header ] (stretcher course, offset)
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The key feature is that headers in each header course sit exactly over the centre of the headers two courses below — not directly above. This creates the characteristic cross pattern.
Comparing bond patterns
| Bond | Strength | Appearance | Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| English bond | Very strong | Classic, varied | Load-bearing walls, facades |
| Stretcher bond | Moderate | Simple, modern | Non-load-bearing, partition walls |
| Stack bond | Weak | Straight, vertical lines | Decorative only |
| Random bond | Good | Rustic, random | Garden walls, feature walls |
| Flemish bond | Strong | Decorative, varied | Heritage buildings |
When to use English bond?
- Load-bearing exterior walls — The standard for solid masonry walls
- Garden walls that need to be strong — Walls over 1 metre high
- Foundation masonry — Maximum strength required
Tips for laying English bond
- Start with a three-quarter brick at the end of the header course to maintain the pattern
- Check every 2 courses that the pattern is correct by looking from top to bottom
- Use a mason’s line for straight courses
Related terms
- Bond pattern
- Bricklaying
- Mortar
- Perpend joint
- Facade