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