Flemish Bond

Term from Masonry industry explained for recruiters

Flemish Bond is a traditional pattern for laying bricks where masons alternate long sides (stretchers) and short ends (headers) of bricks in the same row. This creates a distinctive decorative pattern that's both attractive and strong. Think of it like a puzzle where different-facing bricks lock together to make walls more stable. It's considered one of the most skilled and decorative ways to lay bricks, often found in historic buildings and high-end construction. When you see this term in a resume, it usually indicates that the mason has advanced skills in traditional bricklaying techniques.

Examples in Resumes

Restored historic courthouse facade using traditional Flemish Bond brickwork

Trained junior masons in Flemish Bond and other heritage masonry patterns

Completed 15 custom home projects featuring Flemish Bond brick patterns

Typical job title: "Masons"

Also try searching for:

Bricklayer Masonry Contractor Heritage Mason Restoration Mason Brick Mason Stone Mason Construction Mason

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you plan and execute a large Flemish Bond project on a historic building?

Expected Answer: A senior mason should discuss project planning, material selection, matching existing brickwork, managing a team, ensuring historical accuracy, and dealing with potential challenges like weather damage or structural issues.

Q: How do you train apprentices in Flemish Bond techniques?

Expected Answer: Should explain teaching methods, common mistakes to watch for, safety considerations, and how to gradually build skills from basic to advanced techniques.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the key things to check when starting a Flemish Bond wall?

Expected Answer: Should mention checking level ground, proper corner setup, brick selection, mortar consistency, and maintaining proper pattern alignment.

Q: How do you handle corners and openings in Flemish Bond?

Expected Answer: Should explain the process of turning corners while maintaining the pattern, and how to properly frame windows and doors while keeping the bond intact.

Junior Level Questions

Q: Can you explain what Flemish Bond is?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe the basic pattern of alternating headers and stretchers, and explain why it's used.

Q: What tools are needed for laying Flemish Bond?

Expected Answer: Should list basic masonry tools like trowels, levels, string lines, and explain their use in creating proper Flemish Bond patterns.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic brick laying techniques
  • Understanding of different brick patterns
  • Tool handling and maintenance
  • Basic mortar mixing

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Flemish Bond execution
  • Working with different brick types
  • Reading construction plans
  • Basic project planning

Senior (5+ years)

  • Historic restoration techniques
  • Team leadership
  • Complex pattern execution
  • Project management

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No hands-on experience with traditional brick laying patterns
  • Lack of knowledge about proper mortar mixing
  • Unable to demonstrate understanding of basic masonry tools
  • No experience with historical restoration work