Which type of bond has courses that alternate between headers and stretchers?

The type of bond that features courses alternating between headers and stretchers is the English bond. In this bond, the courses are laid out such that a row of stretchers (the longer side of the brick) is followed by a row of headers (the shorter side), creating a strong and aesthetically pleasing pattern. This arrangement uses both types of brick placements effectively to enhance the structural integrity of the wall and is commonly used in brick masonry for its stability and durability.

The English bond is particularly notable for its alternating pattern, which promotes good interlocking of the bricks, thus reducing the risk of vertical joints aligning through the wall—an important consideration in masonry for preventing structural weaknesses.

The other types of bonds mentioned have different configurations. A running bond consists entirely of stretchers across several courses without headers. Flemish bond alternates headers and stretchers within the same course, creating a different pattern. Stack bond, on the other hand, stacks the bricks directly on top of one another without alternating the orientation, which leads to weaker wall structure as there is less interlocking between courses. Understanding the characteristics of these bonds is crucial for selecting the right type for specific masonry applications.