Stone lintel is provided in the form of either one single piece or more than one piece. These are also provided over the openings in brick walls. The thickness of these are most important factor of its design. These are the most common type, especially where stone is abundantly available. Sometimes, these are strengthened by the provision of mild steel plates at their top and bottom, called as flitched lintels. In case of wider walls, it is composed of two wooden pieces kept at a distance with the help of packing pieces made of wood. If the length of opening is more, then it is provided by joining multiple number of wooden pieces with the help of steel bolts which was shown in fig (a). The main disadvantages with timber are more cost and less durable and vulnerable to fire. But now a days they are replaced by several modern techniques, however in hilly areas these are using. In olden days of construction, Timber lintels were mostly used. Lintels are classified based on the material of construction as: 1.
Types of Lintel used in Building Construction 1/10 th to 1/12 th of span of the lintel.The bearing provided should be the minimum of following 3 cases.
Horizontal lintels are easy to construct as compared to arches. Lintels are classified based on their material of construction. The width of lintel beam is equal to the width of wall, and the ends of it is built into the wall. in buildings to support the load from the structure above. Aluminum lintels are corrosion-resistant and perfect for use in areas exposed to the elements.□ Reading time: 1 minute What is Lintel?Ī lintel is a beam placed across the openings like doors, windows etc. Aluminum LintelĪluminum lintels are primarily used in residential construction because they are lightweight and easy to install. Also, aesthetically pleasing, wood can be susceptible to fire and less durable than other common lintel materials. Timber lintels are inexpensive but not suitable for heavy loads or large openings. Wood or timber lintels are primarily used in mountain homes and provide an attractive vintage look. Masonry lintels are solid and durable however, installing a masonry lintel can be more time-consuming and complex. These are primarily used in traditional or historical construction projects or in a structure where the load is light. Masonry lintels are made from bricks or stones and provide an attractive and uniform look. The main advantage of steel lintels is that they are resistant to corrosion. Steel lintels are made from galvanized steel and are solid and durable. Steel lintels are primarily used in industrial and commercial construction where openings are wide, and the structural loads are heavy. Concrete lintels are easy to install and famous because of their rigidity, load-bearing capacity, fire resistance, and strength. These are primarily used in residential and commercial construction projects. Popular Types of Lintels Concrete LintelĬoncrete lintels are made of reinforced concrete and offer high strength and durability. Always consult your builder or structural engineer to ensure the proper lintel is selected and installed. The selection of the suitable lintel depends on many factors, such as the width & height of the opening, the weight of the structure above, the type of wall material, and the expected loads on the lintel. Lintels are typically made of steel, concrete, bricks, and wood. Builders install them into the wall to disperse the weight of materials directly atop the open space. Lintel beams extend past either side of the doorway or opening to solve this. Open spaces in walls lack structural integrity because there’s nothing above the gap to support the load on top of the opening. A lintel resists cracking, bending, and buckling under heavy loads. Lintels support the structure’s weight above the opening, such as a brick or concrete wall.
The main work of the lintel is to support the structure’s weight. In this blog, from steel lintels to concrete lintels, we will explore each type’s advantages, disadvantages, and ideal usage, helping you make an informed decision when selecting lintels for your next construction project. Lintels are primarily used in empty spaces like windows and entrances in a structure. A Lintel is a horizontal beam placed across the top of an opening in a wall.