Kruislopende

Kruislopende is a Dutch adjective meaning cross-lapping or criss-cross overlapping. The term is used in several technical contexts to describe elements that are offset or interlaced to form a stable assembly.

In masonry, kruislopend verband refers to a brickwork pattern in which successive courses are offset so that vertical joints do not align. Offsets are typically about half a brick, creating a staggered wall that distributes loads more evenly and reduces the risk of cracking. This pattern is common in both historic and contemporary Dutch masonry and is often contrasted with other bonds where joints align more regularly.

In timber construction and carpentry, kruislopend can describe cross-lap joints, where two timbers overlap at right angles to create a strong connection without metal fasteners. The technique is used in frames, panels, and other structures, and may involve notching or shaping to fit the overlapping sections.

Beyond brick and timber, kruislopende arrangements appear in latticework, screens, or decorative panels where elements cross over each other in a kruislopend pattern. The term is primarily part of Dutch technical vocabulary and is generally translated as cross-lapped or cross-bond, depending on the context.