Lintel Beams
Let’s talk lintels. No, not lentils, lintels!
Lintels are a type of beam that spans the opening of doors, portals, windows, or fireplaces. They can be decorative, or both decorative and structural. They can be referred to as “beams” in beam and block slabs, or ribs in rib block slabs. 1
The word lintel comes “from Old French lintel "threshold" (13c., Modern French linteau), a word of uncertain origin, probably a variant of lintier, from Vulgar Latin *limitalis "threshold," or a similar unrecorded word.” 7 Just in case you, like our creative director, were curious about what the word means.
Now that we’ve got some nomenclature out of the way, and you’re truly looking for information on lintel beams, let's talk about their purpose and why you may or may not need one.
Purpose of Lintel Beams
So, let’s get this out of the way first: all lintels are beams, but not all beams are lintels. What does this mean exactly? Lintels are a very specific type of beam. Merritt and Ricketts (Authors of Building Design and Construction Handbook) define a beam as
“the horizontal members used to support vertically applied loads. In a more general sense, they are structural components that external loads tend to bend or curve.”
While a lintel is a “horizontal member used to support masonry over windows, doors, and other openings in a wall.” 2 Basically, both are beams, but lintels are a beam with a specific purpose and location. Even more specifically: the lintel carries the load of the wall above the openings/door/window and transfers it to the walls only.
It should also be noted that in modern construction, the lintel beam is sometimes avoided altogether in favor of a deep beam. In your case, you may be thinking of replacing an old lintel beam or placing one for new construction. So let’s talk about materials.
Commonly Used Materials for Lintels
More often than not, your choice of material will come almost exclusively down to looks. Lintels were historically made of timber and used to support a brick framework. This is not always the case, but it’s where you’ll see them most often. As previously stated, lintels are either: moving the load to the walls, and therefore don’t require the intense loads necessary to be choosy with materials, or are solely for aesthetic purposes. If you have a rotting or damaged timber lintel, it can be very dangerous if left in place. With all that boring stuff behind us, let’s talk aesthetics! Here are some commonly found materials used in the construction of lintel beams:
Wood Lintel
You’ve definitely seen this type of lintel in a farm style house, or in some old buildings. As previously stated, lintels have been historically made from dense, hard wood timber. In non ideal conditions, or a fire, these can be damaged, and cause structural failure above windows and especially doorways. Despite this, timber is a completely suitable material for a lintel, but it’s better if it’s visible and you can keep tabs on it in case of water or termite damage.
Steel Lintel
Typically you won’t see a steel lintel because it’ll be behind the brickwork or finish work. There are some odd steel lintels made of inverted C-channel out there, but an I beam or angle is the norm. Of course, if you’re going for a modern, industrial look you could always leave the steel exposed. There are a few disadvantages to steel lintels besides the cost. This is certainly the most expensive material to use in this application.
Brick Lintel
These types of lintels aren’t the strongest but are suitable for light loads. A certain type of brick must be used, and they are put into place with the use of temporary timber framing. If you’re looking for something purely for looks, and like the brick, this could be a suitable option.
Concrete Lintel
These types of lintel are precast concrete or large stone slabs. They offer both pleasing looks and good structural support for all your lintel needs. Stone/cast concrete is a very specific look though, and may not be a good fit for the style of your home.
In closing
No matter what type of lintel beam you decide on, be sure it meets the structural needs of your project. This may mean getting in touch with an engineer or home builder if you aren’t sure whether your existing lintel is structural or aesthetic.
Works Cited
Merritt, Frederick S. Building Design and Construction Handbook. Knovel, 2002.
