Which bond consists of alternating forces of headers and stretchers?

The bond that consists of alternating forces of headers and stretchers is known as the English bond. In an English bond, each course (or row) alternates between a row of stretchers (the long side of the brick) and a row of headers (the short side of the brick), creating a strong and stable wall construction. This arrangement helps to distribute loads effectively and provides better interlocking of the bricks compared to other bond types.

The alternating pattern of headers and stretchers results in improved tensile strength and helps prevent the wall from cracking, making English bond a preferred choice for load-bearing masonry structures. Additionally, because of its strength and durability, it is widely used in the construction of buildings and is a classic method in brickwork.

Other bond types, such as running bond, flemish bond, and concave bond, organize bricks differently, which may affect their structural integrity and aesthetic qualities, but do not employ the same alternating forces as found in the English bond configuration.