the bond patterns. Stretcher course (Stretching course): This is a course made up of a row of stretchers. This is the simplest arrangement of masonry units. If the wall is two wythes thick, one header is used to bind the two wythes together. Header course: This is a course made up of a row of headers. Bond course: This is a course of headers that bond the facing masonry to the backing masonry. String course (Belt course or Band course): A decorative horizontal row of masonry, narrower than the other courses, that extends across the façade of a structure or wraps around decorative elements like columns. Sill course: Stone masonry courses at the windowsill, projected out from the wall. Split course: Units are cut down so they are smaller than their normal thickness. Springing course: Stone masonry on which the first stones of an arch rest. Starting course: The first course of a unit, usually referring to shingles. Case course: Units form the foundation or footing course. It is the lowest course in a masonry wall used for multiple functions, mostly structural. Barge course: Units form the coping of a wall by bricks set on edge. See also Brickwork References Building engineering Masonry