Older properties (built before as recently as the 1970's) often do not have lintels to support the outer leaf of brickwork above windows and doors. Support to the inner leaf of masonry is provided in most properties irrespective of their age. For short openings such as doors this is not much of a problem. For longer openings such as windows, problems can arise when the windows are replaced. The removal of the window often leads to the deflection and cracking in the brickwork above, because the window was actually supporting the brickwork.

This type of damage is often picked up during a pre purchase survey. Often the recommendation is to install new lintels. This is a disruptive operation, particularly when it disturbs the internal finishes.

The is an alternative, which is to insert stainless steel reinforcing bars in the mortar joints above the window. This in effect creates a reinforced masonry lintel, every bit as strong as a more traditional one. These lintels do need to be properly designed, but the result is a quick and cheap solution with no disruption to the internal building finishes.

We need the following information to design a reinforced masonry lintel:

the span of the opening

Design information

All design work is carried out in accordance with BS5628 Part 2 'The structural use of reinforced and pre-stressed masonry'. We specify Helifix stainless steel reinforcing bars in all of our designs.

The calculations provided will be suitable for Building Regulation approval.