Lintels

A lintel is a horizontal structural member that spans an opening in a wall and carries the load from above to the wall supports at each end. Lintels allow openings for doors, windows, and other penetrations while maintaining the overall strength of the wall.

Historically, lintels were made of stone or timber. In contemporary construction they are commonly steel, reinforced concrete, or precast concrete. Stone or brick masonry lintels may consist of a single block or of multiple blocks laid to form a bearing beam, while reinforced masonry lintels embed steel reinforcement in concrete blocks.

Design considerations include the span, the loads to be supported, material properties, and the bearing at the ends. Timber lintels require sufficient cross-section and protection from moisture; concrete and steel lintels rely on reinforcement and proper anchorage to transfer loads from the wall to the supports. End bearing should be adequate to avoid local wall crushing and excessive settlement.

End bearing length and potential settlement are important factors; inadequate bearing can lead to cracking, distortion of the opening, or failure of the lintel. When updating older constructions or repairing damaged openings, lintels may be replaced or reinforced with steel sections or reinforced concrete units to restore load transfer and stability.

Lintels are a fundamental element in masonry and timber construction, serving as the primary horizontal support across openings and distinguishing themselves from arches, which transfer loads through an arch action rather than a straight beam.