Concrete Lintels

Lintels are a critical part of any building project. They are key to ensuring that windows and doors can bear the weight of the bricks that are in-place above them. Lintels are usually installed reasonably early in the construction.

Lintels need to cover the entire span of the window/door with at least 150mm over on each side.

There are two main classifications of concrete lintels: prestressed, and non-prestressed.

Prestressed concrete lintels have high-tensile steel wires which are stretched within them when they are manufactured. This makes them extra strong and also means that they can span larger openings. Prestressed lintels are often used over doors and windows, and are able to support heavier loads. They are easy to install and can be cut to the required length on site.

Non-prestressed concrete lintels do not have the reinforcement of prestressed versions. They are simpler, not as strong, and are only suitable for smaller openings/spans. However, they tend to be more affordable.

When choosing which type of concrete lintels to use, the main thing to consider is the size of the load they need to support. This is affected by the span of the opening, the weight of the wall above, and some other factors. Pre-stressed concrete lintels are better for heavier loads but may not be necessary for smaller openings with lighter loads. It is always a wise idea to seek advice from a structural engineer when calculating the load requirement for your specific project.

Some concrete lintels have fire-resistant properties, whilst others are insulated and can help boost the thermal performance of the building. Concrete lintels are manufactured in a range of sizes to suit different load requirements and span lengths.

Here at George Hill, we offer wet cast concrete lintels in various sizes. If you have any queries, please feel free to contact our friendly and knowledgeable team for advice.