What is Toothing?
Toothing is a masonry technique in which the bricks of two adjoining walls or wall sections are interlocked (bonded together), so that they form one structural whole. With toothing, bricks from one wall project into the other, creating a strong mechanical connection without separate fixings.
Why toothing?
A wall that simply stands beside another wall (built on) can come loose under load or settlement. By toothing, the two walls are structurally connected:
- Stronger — the walls work together in tension and compression
- Earthquake-resistant — the connection remains intact under horizontal forces
- Aesthetic — no visible joints or gaps between the walls
Toothing vs. wall ties
| Method | Connection | When |
|---|---|---|
| Toothing | Bricks interlocked | New build, walls built simultaneously |
| Wall ties | Steel ties in bed joints | Subsequent extension, or cavity wall |
| Indent toothing | Individual bricks inserted | Retrospective extension |
Execution
When building simultaneously:
- Set a string line for both walls
- Alternate the brick position at the corner with each course
- Use correct masonry bonds (stretcher bond, English cross bond)
- Ensure perpends (vertical joints) do not align between courses
> When building an extension onto an existing wall, toothing is no longer possible. Use wall ties instead, or cut pockets into the existing wall.
Applications
- Building corners (front and side facade)
- Junction of internal wall to external wall
- Partition wall on load-bearing wall
- Garden wall with pilasters
Related terms
- Masonry bond
- Bricklaying
- English cross bond
- Soldier course
- Perpend
- Cavity wall
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