Placement of a queen closer in brick bonds: where should a queen closer be positioned to maintain proper bond and stagger of vertical joints?

Introduction / Context:
Closers are specially cut bricks used to maintain the interlocking bond at corners (quoins). A queen closer is obtained by cutting a brick longitudinally into two equal halves (half the width along the full length). Correct placement is crucial for breaking vertical joints and achieving a durable corner.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We are dealing with standard bonds such as English or Flemish.
• Corner (quoin) bonding must avoid straight-through vertical joints.
• Queen closer definition: longitudinal half-brick.

Concept / Approach:
In English bond, the queen closer is typically placed in the header course next to the first quoin header to ensure that the vertical joints of the two faces do not align. This placement maintains the required overlap between adjacent courses, improving strength and appearance.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify the course type: header course at the corner.Place queen closer adjacent to the first header at the quoin.This creates correct joint staggering between faces.

Verification / Alternative check:
Textbook bond diagrams consistently show queen closers against the first header in header courses to maintain bond around corners.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Stretcher-course placements do not achieve the required quoin interlock in English bond.
• “Any position” or “random” placement can produce continuous joints.
• Keeping it in header courses but not next to the first brick fails to correct the joint alignment at the corner.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing queen closer with king closer; placing closers in the wrong course, leading to weak corners.

Final Answer:
In a header course next to the first brick at the quoin