What is a claustra?

A claustra, also called the Brazilian bond, is recognised by openings in the masonry, they are created by bricks which are laid only with their ends on the underlying bricks. This creates a translucent effect in the facade, making a stunning aesthetic phenomenon.

Advantages:

• Aesthetic aspect
• Incidence of light without vision (privacy)
• Gives extra cachet to the façade
• Gives the façade the effect of lacework

Disadvantages:

• Limited contact area results in weaker brickwork
• Precipitation must not enter cavity! Seal cavity allowing occasional rainwater to be diverted
• There is normally no supporting wall behind the claustra wall => the anchoring of the façade therefore requires greater attention!
• Length-to-height ratio must be taken into account to ensure stability

Points of attention:

• Glue is stronger than masonry mortar and also adheres better
• Keep the contact surface as large as possible
• Fewer openings per surface area
• Limit the height of the openings (over fewer layers of brick)
• Provide reinforcement if necessary