Styles of Laying Bricks

Plain Patterns

• Plain styles of laying bricks include jack-on-jack, running bond, English bond and Flemish, which are all considered standard patterns. Laying bricks in a plain pattern works well in small spaces because only a few rows are required to make the pattern evident. This bricklaying style requires only straight cuts, and the bricks can be laid without intricate planning. The bricks are laid in one direction, and some of the patterns alternate the location of the grout lines between the bricks as each row is laid, adding more interest to the overall look.

Complex Patterns

• Herringbone, basket weave and double basket weave are complex patterns that are created with contrasting brick colors, half-bricks, and by changing the direction in which some bricks are laid. These more-intricate designs, along with commonly created shapes such as diamonds or crosses, are suitable styles when laying bricks in large areas. Since these patterns require several repeats before the overall pattern is evident, the beauty of this style is lost on small areas. Extra patience and work is required, however, to carefully measure and install complex patterns.

Combined Patterns

• When covering large areas, you can combine several patterns in your overall design to create extra visual interest. For example, combining an intricate basket weave pattern with a plain pattern, such as jack-on-jack or running bond, produces a dramatic affect. It's important, however, to not combine two intricate patterns, to ensure that they don't detract from each other. Careful planning and measuring is important, to keep the patterns and overall design symmetrical and attractive, and it may require lots of cuts.

Alternate Directions

• When using plain patterns, changing the direction of your brick pattern periodically throughout your overall layout adds a special touch. Create grids of plain patterns, laying one section horizontally and the next vertically, alternating throughout the entire design. Even a basic jack-on-jack pattern can be made more dramatic by arranging the bricks diagonally rather than perpendicular to the edges of your path or patio.