Running Bond

Category: infrastructure

A structural layout pattern where masonry units overlap by exactly half their length on every consecutive course.

Running bond is the undisputed standard pattern for load-bearing walls. Because the head joints are horizontally offset on every layer, the vertical structural weight loads are distributed diagonally downward across a wide surface footprint, maximizing wall stability.

Common Examples

• The structural masonry code allows for a higher allowable compressive stress load when laying blocks in a standard running bond.
• Centering head joints cleanly over the exact midpoint of the brick below is the most common form of a running bond layout design.