A lintel is something you might not have heard of before but it is in fact an essential part of a building’s infrastructure. In this article, we explain what exactly a lintel is, the different types of lintels that can be used.
What Exactly Is a Lintel?
Simply put a lintel is a beam that is usually placed above windows and doors. The lintel’s main job is to support the load from the structure above it. Both doors and windows are not constructed to structurally withstand massive loads by themselves. Lintels are mainly found in masonry or brick structures.
What Are the Different Types of Lintels?
There is a range of lintels that can be used for all types of properties. The type of lintel used can vary on the cost of the material and the availability of the material at the time of construction. The main types of lintels are: Brick lintel, timber lintel, steel lintel and concrete lintel.
Concrete Lintels
Concrete lintels are one of the most common types of lintels used in construction. The reason why concrete lintels are often used is that they are able to support heavy loads and larger spans.
One of the biggest advantages of using concrete lintels in the construction of your building is that they can adapt to any size and shape to fit above your windows and doors. Other advantages include that they are economical as well as durable.
Even with these benefits, this type of lintel can be susceptible to failure. If there is a horizontal crack within the concrete lintel, then this will need to be dealt with as soon as possible. If there is a crack in the lintel then over time it can allow water into the crack that can cause the steel reinforcement within the concrete to rust.
If rusting does occur within a concrete lintel, it might be worth either using a different concrete product or having it replaced altogether.
Timber Lintels
Timber lintels are mainly used in parts of the country where timber is most accessible and are most commonly used in barn conversions. Most properties now often replace timber lintels with modern materials.
There are a few problems that can arise from having timber lintels. One of the main problems is that they tend to be structurally weak and be less durable than other types of lintels. One of the biggest issues is with problems relating to dampness. When timber is affected by damp this can lead to rotting issues forming. There is also the possibility of a woodworm infestation attacking the timber.
When timber lintels are affected, this can mean the structural integrity of the building is vulnerable. It is important that the timbers are treated or removed as soon as possible. We would always recommend a specialist inspect the property to determine what the damp and timber problem is and then detail the type of treatment that is needed to rectify the issue.
Stone Lintels
A stone lintel is a common type of lintel and is used where the stone is easily accessible. They are not often used in buildings based in mountainous areas due to the fact they weigh too much.
This type of lintel is often used in areas of the country where stone materials are easily accessible. There are several problems with stone lintels. They can be high in cost, vulnerable to transverse stress (bending) and difficult to transport due to their weight.
Steel Lintels
Steel lintels are used when the load above is heavy and the opening gaps are large as well. Unlike concrete lintels, they are much less affected by rust and erosion meaning after installation, they can prove to be reliable for many years.
Steel lintels are less labour intensive than installing more lintels within your building and is much more practical to manoeuvre.
Brick Lintels
Brick lintels are mainly used in properties where there is a light loading above and the opening gap is less than 1m. When the brick lintels that are frog filled with mortar provides shear resistance to the end joints than the standard blocks that are normally used.
Reinforced Brick Lintels
Reinforced brick lintels are used where there are heavy loadings, and the span length may be a problem for brick lintels. Reinforced brick lintels provide more support than brick lintels.
How Can a Lintel Be Repaired?
If you have damaged lintels within your building they should be rectified as soon as possible before they lead to further structural issues. The quicker the lintel failure is identified and the lintel is repaired or replaced then the less expense you will have to pay in the future. Each type of lintel can be repaired differently.
However, if the wrong repairs are carried out for your type of lintel, then this will lead to further problems that could have been resolved sooner.
To contact our team of lintel repair specialists at Timberwise you can either call on 0800 288 8660 or contact us online.
FAQs
What is a Lintel in Construction?
A lintel is a structural beam placed above openings such as doors, windows, and other gaps in a wall. Its purpose is to support the load from the structure above and transfer it to the surrounding masonry. Without a lintel, the opening would not be structurally stable and could lead to cracking or structural movement.
What Are the Different Types of Lintels?
The main types of lintels include concrete lintels, steel lintels, timber lintels, and stone lintels. Each type is selected based on the structure, load requirements, and building materials. For example, steel and concrete lintels are commonly used in modern construction, while timber and stone lintels are more typical in older or traditional buildings.
What Does a Lintel Do in a Building?
A lintel supports the weight of the structure above an opening such as a window or door. It distributes this load safely into the surrounding walls, preventing stress from causing cracks or structural failure. Lintels are essential for maintaining the stability and integrity of masonry walls.
What Happens if a Lintel Fails?
If a lintel fails, it can lead to visible cracking above doors or windows, bowing masonry, or even structural instability in severe cases. Over time, this may worsen if left untreated, as the load above the opening is no longer properly supported. Early diagnosis is important to prevent further damage to the surrounding structure.
How Do You Know if a Lintel Needs Replacing?
Signs that a lintel may need replacing include cracks forming above openings, sagging or bowing brickwork, sticking doors or windows, and visible movement in the surrounding masonry. A professional survey is usually required to confirm the condition of the lintel and determine whether repair or replacement is necessary.
