Different Types of Masonry

Masonry types are the way bricks are arranged when building walls. These arrangements affect their strength. Moreover, a masonry type also determines the character and aesthetics of a wall. In this article, we describe the different masonry types.

What are Masonry Types?

First, let’s address what masonry types are. Masonry types are patterns created when bricks are laid in a certain way. Laying the bricks in a specific manner creates a motif in the masonry. A regular masonry type has a pattern that is laid in a fixed, repeating manner. This has the advantage of looking neat and consistent. In a head-stretcher bond, bricks are alternately laid with the head (short side) and the stretcher (long side). This can also lead to a beautiful and neat pattern. The choice of a particular type often depends on the desired appearance and the technical requirements of a project.

What Types of Masonry Are There?

There are various masonry types you can use for a construction project. Some popular types of masonry include:

• Cross Bond: This masonry type is also known as Dutch bond. This bond is characterized by alternating layers of stretchers (long sides) and heads (short sides) of the bricks. After each layer, the long sides and short sides are reversed. A bond that is known for its strength but also for its decoration.
• Half-Brick Bond: This is the most common masonry type in the Netherlands. The joints of the upper bricks are always halfway between the bricks of the underlying layer. It is popular because it is economically advantageous and has a neat appearance.
• Random Bond: This random bond masonry is also known as free bond. In random bond, the bricks are laid randomly without a fixed pattern. A random bond is one of the oldest bonds because in the past, bricks were not baked in the same dimensions. This gives the wall a playful and natural appearance.
• Standing Masonry: This type of masonry is mainly applied to narrow walls or more pillar-like walls. In this bond, a layer of stretchers lies above a layer of heads and vice versa.

We hope that with this explanation, a few popular masonry types have become clear. What is good to know is that each of these different masonry types offers a unique appearance and structure. Our tip to you is to think carefully about which masonry type best fits your construction project.

Is There a Price Difference Between the Different Masonry Types?

Yes, there is certainly a price difference between the different masonry types. The price difference mainly relates to the amount of work and time required to apply each bond. A random bond or half-brick bond is, for example, less labor-intensive than a (brick) cross bond. Laying a cross bond requires more precision and craftsmanship, which makes it more expensive.

In addition to considering which pattern best suits your construction project, it is also important to think about the budget. A complex pattern is generally more expensive than a simple pattern. The most economical masonry type is the half-brick bond.

Masonry with Antique Bricks

Using antique bricks in combination with a masonry type can create a unique appearance. Masonry types that go well with antique bricks are, for example, the half-brick bond and a (half-brick) cross bond. At Van Dillen Antieke Bouwmaterialen, we still sell unique whole heads. These are quite rare nowadays because whole heads are no longer preserved or made ready for reuse. A beautiful masonry type with our unique heads gives a classic old look to your construction project. By choosing masonry types with antique bricks, you add character and history to your construction project while also contributing to a sustainable way of building.

How to Save Money with Old Building Materials and Antique Bricks?

At Van Dillen Antieke Bouwmaterialen, it is possible to save money on your purchase of old bricks, especially when you lay in a half-brick cross bond. We offer a fairly large stock of good antique heads from old bricks in several batches. These can help you save a lot of money, especially in larger quantities. Check out our offers page!