Industry
Fact-checked

At AboutMechanics, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is Running Bond?

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

A running bond is a style of applying a bonding agent between building materials, such as bricks and other forms of masonry. The style is referred to as running, as the bonding agent is applied to create a straight line between the bricks or other materials. While considered by many to be the least visually appealing bonding configuration, the running bond is used extensively around the world.

Also known as a stretcher bond, this running type of bond is a staple of laying brick for homes and public buildings. The method is used when a uniform appearance to the brickwork is desirable. While not considered to be an exciting look, the running bond does provide a uniform visual surface and helps the overall structure to be very stable.

Running bond is a staple of laying brick for homes and public buildings.
Running bond is a staple of laying brick for homes and public buildings.

One of the benefits of a running bond is that there is no need to use header bricks in order to apply the method. This makes it possible to utilize either full sized bricks or half-sized bricks in the overall design. In cases where the building plan calls for the construction of two walls of thin bricks in close proximity, the structure is usually connected with wall ties and understood to be a cavity wall bond.

Running bonds are commonly used for concrete block foundations.
Running bonds are commonly used for concrete block foundations.

When constructing a wall that will be visible from both sides, such as in brick fences or enclosures, the running bond of mortar between the bricks helps to provide a sturdy structure that can easily be dressed with the use of landscaping. Because the running bond gives the structure a great deal of uniformity, the focus will be on the elements utilized for the landscaping, and relatively little attention to the brick structure. However, it is possible to add visual interest to a wall created with running bond by simply using an occasional brick that is a different shade or color from the majority of the bricks in the construction. This added interest is often found with in the construction of residences within planned communities, as well as with some public buildings.

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including AboutMechanics, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including AboutMechanics, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

dnesh

I am building back my regenerative's burner's wall using SK 38 fire bricks. The working temperature of my furnace will me more than 1100 Celsius. Can you explain/advise me on the bonding agent that I should use in between the bricks, in such a way that it can sustain high temperatures?

Thanks in advance

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Running bond is a staple of laying brick for homes and public buildings.
      By: dja65
      Running bond is a staple of laying brick for homes and public buildings.
    • Running bonds are commonly used for concrete block foundations.
      By: stoonn
      Running bonds are commonly used for concrete block foundations.