Expert Lintel Replacement and I Beam Solutions for Your Property

Our masonry experts have the experience to handle all your lintel repair needs.
Whether they are

• rusty
• cement based
• made of steel
• or made of stone

We got you!

With our in-depth understanding, we are committed to delivering exceptional lintel replacement and I beam repair services, that ensure integrity & longevity.

What are the different types of lintels?

Wood lintels

Historically, wood lintels were commonly used in construction. They are typically made from timber beams or logs placed horizontally across the top of an opening.

However, wood lintels have become less common in modern construction due to concerns about their strength and durability compared to other materials.

Concrete Lintels or Cement Lintels

Reinforced concrete lintels are widely used in modern construction.
They are made by pouring concrete into a form-work that contains reinforcing bars or mesh to increase their strength and load-bearing capacity.

Concrete lintels can be precast or cast in place, depending on the construction method.

Stone Lintels

Appreciate the aesthetic appeal and durability of stone lintels, commonly used in architectural designs to enhance visual impact.
These lintels are constructed using bricks or stones that are arranged in a specific pattern to form a load-bearing structure.

They are often shaped as an arch or a flat beam and are commonly found in traditional masonry construction.

Steel lintels

Steel lintels are commonly used in both residential and commercial construction. They are made from steel beams or angles and offer high strength and durability. Steel lintels can span larger openings and provide excellent load-bearing capacity. They are often galvanized to protect against corrosion.

Northshore Brick Work, we specialize in all types of steel lintel including steel lintel beam and window steel lintel.

Common Problems Faced with Different Types of Lintels

Iron Lintels

These lintels have developed rust due to exposure to moisture, humidity, or corrosive elements. Rusty lintels have the following consequences:

Structural Weakness: Rust weakens the integrity of the lintels, compromising their load-bearing capacity and overall structural stability.

Safety Hazards: Rusty lintels can pose safety risks, especially if they are supporting heavy loads or located in areas with high foot traffic. There is a potential for lintels to fail or collapse, leading to property damage or injury.

Aesthetic Degradation: Rust stains and discoloration can detract from the visual appeal of a building or structure, impacting its overall aesthetics and potentially lowering its market value.

Deterioration of Surrounding Materials: Rust can spread to adjacent materials, such as masonry or concrete, causing further deterioration and weakening the overall structural system.

Moisture Infiltration: Rusty lintels may develop gaps or cracks, allowing moisture to seep into the building envelope. This can lead to water damage, mold growth, and other related issues.

Increased Maintenance and Repair Costs: Addressing rusty lintels often requires extensive repairs or complete replacement. These additional costs can strain budgets and disrupt regular maintenance schedules.

Cement Lintels or Concrete Lintels

Cracking: Concrete lintels may develop cracks due to excessive loads, settlement, or temperature fluctuations. These cracks can compromise the structural integrity and lead to further damage if not addressed promptly.

Spalling: Spalling refers to the chipping or flaking of the concrete surface, often caused by moisture penetration, freeze-thaw cycles, or corrosion of embedded reinforcement. Spalled concrete lintels can weaken and become susceptible to further deterioration.

Corrosion of Reinforcement: If the steel reinforcement within the concrete lintel is not adequately protected, it can rust over time. Rusting steel expands, leading to cracking and spalling of the concrete surrounding it. This corrosion weakens the lintel and requires immediate attention.

Sagging or Deflection: Overloaded or structurally compromised lintels may experience sagging or deflection, resulting in visible signs such as uneven door or window openings. Sagging lintels can impact the stability of the surrounding structure and compromise the functionality of doors and windows.

Insufficient Size or Design: Lintels that are improperly sized or designed for the intended load can result in inadequate support, leading to structural issues and potential failures. Insufficient lintel dimensions may become apparent through excessive deflection, cracking, or signs of stress.

Poor Installation or Reinforcement: Inadequate installation practices or insufficient reinforcement during the construction of concrete lintels can contribute to various problems. Improperly placed or insufficient reinforcement may lead to reduced load-bearing capacity and premature failure.

Water Penetration and Moisture Damage: Concrete lintels exposed to excessive moisture or water infiltration can experience deterioration and weakened structural integrity. Water penetration can result in rusting of embedded steel, spalling, or even the growth of mold and mildew.

Steel Lintels

Corrosion: Steel lintels are susceptible to corrosion when exposed to moisture and certain environmental conditions. Rust formation on the steel surface can weaken the lintel and compromise its load-bearing capacity. Corrosion can occur due to inadequate protection or damage to the protective coatings on the steel.

Deflection or Sagging: Over time, steel lintels may experience deflection or sagging under heavy loads or due to structural issues. This can lead to uneven door or window openings, compromising the functionality and aesthetics of the building.

Insufficient Design or Size: Inadequately designed or undersized steel lintels may fail to provide adequate support for the load they are intended to bear. This can result in excessive deflection, cracking, or even structural failure. Proper design and sizing of steel lintels are crucial to ensure their effectiveness and longevity.

Poor Installation: Improper installation of steel lintels can lead to various problems. Incorrect placement or inadequate anchoring can result in reduced load-bearing capacity and compromised structural stability. It is important to follow proper installation guidelines and techniques to avoid such issues.

Thermal Bridging: Steel lintels, being good conductors of heat, can create thermal bridging in the building envelope. This can lead to energy loss, condensation issues, and reduced thermal efficiency. Proper insulation and thermal break solutions should be considered to mitigate thermal bridging problems.

Material Deterioration: While steel lintels are generally durable, exposure to harsh environmental conditions or chemicals can cause material deterioration over time. This can include corrosion, pitting, or weakening of the steel lintel.

Inadequate Fire Resistance: Steel lintels, compared to other materials like concrete, have lower fire resistance. In the event of a fire, steel lintels can lose their structural integrity more quickly. Proper fire protection measures, such as fire-rated coatings or encasements, should be implemented to enhance fire resistance.

How Can We Help?

North Shore Brickwork is your trusted partner when it comes to addressing problems with lintels.

Whether it is lintel replacement or lintel repairs, we have the right expert for you. Our skilled team of professionals is well-versed in identifying and resolving issues related to cracked, spalled, or deteriorated concrete lintels.

Contact us today to discuss your lintel replacement or lintel repair needs and let us provide you with tailored solutions to restore the structural integrity and aesthetics of your building.

For more details contact us here. https://northshorebrickwork.com/request-estimate/

Steps Involved in Lintel Replacement

At Northshore Brick Work, we follow a comprehensive process to ensure efficient and reliable lintel replacement. Our skilled professionals will guide you through each step, ensuring a seamless experience. Here’s an overview of the typical process involved in lintel replacement:

Step 1: Initial Assessment

Our team will conduct a thorough assessment of your property to evaluate the condition of the existing lintel. We examine signs of damage, such as cracks, sagging, or corrosion, and determine the appropriate replacement material and dimensions needed for optimal structural support.

Step 2: Planning and Preparation

Once the assessment is complete, we develop a detailed plan for the lintel replacement. This includes acquiring the necessary materials, tools, and equipment. We take into consideration factors like load-bearing capacity, architectural requirements, and any specific customer preferences.

Step 3: Removal of Old Lintel

Before installing the new lintel, it’s crucial to remove the old one carefully. Our experts use specialized techniques to safely detach the existing lintel without causing any further damage to the surrounding structure. We ensure a clean removal, minimizing disruption to your property.

Step 4: Installation of New Lintel

With the old lintel removed, we proceed to install the new lintel. Our team carefully positions the replacement lintel, aligning it precisely according to the planned specifications. We take care to provide adequate support and reinforcement as necessary, ensuring a secure and durable installation.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

To complete the lintel replacement process, we perform any necessary finishing touches. This includes sealing and waterproofing the area to protect against moisture infiltration and applying appropriate coatings for enhanced durability and aesthetics. We take pride in delivering a seamless finish that blends seamlessly with your existing architecture.

Cost Estimate:

Budget approx. $1,000-$3,000 per window lintel replacement. For more details contact us here. https://northshorebrickwork.com/request-estimate/