When Should I Consider Window Lintel Replacement?

Lintels are placed between two vertical beams above the opening of the window. They are typically made up of wood, steel, or stone. You can buy them in hardware stores but can also make them from scratch.

There are two main reasons a window lintel is placed in a structure. The first one is to support the weight of a building and to distribute it evenly in the other areas of the building. The second one is mainly for aesthetic reasons.

Based on the material used and other environmental factors, lintels can last for several years. However, with time, you might notice damages to them. Some damages can be repaired, but how do we identify when damages are extensive and complete replacement is essential?

Signs Your Window Lintels Need Complete Replacement

Lintels are often exposed to rain, moisture, and extreme weather conditions. Moreover, sometimes they carry too much weight than they should. All of this leads to their breakage. 

Cracks in Mortar Around the Lintel

If the bricks are not getting adequate support from the lintel they need, cracks will appear on the mortar. They might appear in a vertical, step-like, or horizontal shape and eventually worsen.

These cracks can weaken the structure, and with time, it might not be able to stand on its own.

Jutting Bricks

Over time, movement or weakness in the lintels can cause the bricks to falter or shift. A common sign of jutting bricks is your lintel not being in its original position. Fixing this issue as soon as possible with guidance from lintel repair specialists is essential to avoid compromising the structural integrity of your property.

Lintel Defects

Noticeable defects in your lintel, such as cracks, bending, or sagging due to moisture, indicate that it must be replaced as soon as possible. Lintel defects can adversely impact the masonry around it.

If you notice the masonry around it bent or shifted, it indicates that the lintel is not providing efficient support and requires replacement.

Corrosion on Lintel

If the lintel is made of steel, it can corrode, especially in an area with a high humidity level and constant exposure to a moist environment. It happens because stainless steel products do not mean they will not rust. It means that these products are challenging to rust.

When the corrosion is apparent on lintels, replace them as soon as possible.

Which Material is Best for a Lintel?

There are various material options for constructing window lintels, including wood, stone, and steel. All of these materials are good, depending on their use. 

Let us look at the characteristics of each material.

Wood Lintels

These lintels are traditional, as they were used when not many options were available. They give an aesthetic look to your property but can be an unideal choice because they can decay quickly.

Wood absorbs moisture and can become weak over time. It is why these lintels are not efficient enough to support heavy loads.

Stone Lintels

Stone lintels are an attractive and firm option for your windows. However, they might be a little costly because of their weight. If you want to install window lintels while keeping their aesthetic appeal in mind, stone lintels might be the best material option for you.

Steels Lintels

Many people think steel lintels look ugly, but it might not be an issue if they are hidden behind concrete or bricks. Steel lintels can carry heavy loads and are often used in construction due to their durability. When using them, remember that many steels corrode. Therefore, use lintels that are more rust-resistant, especially if they are constantly exposed to moisture.

Conclusion

Damaged window lintels can lead to extensive structural damages and must be fixed as soon as possible. You can inspect them timely to identify any issues that can extend over time. While replacing the lintels, select the material that best addresses your needs.

Take professional help for the lintel replacement process so that the final results are not only aesthetic but also durable and can stand the test of time.

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