What is Lintels? Types Of Lintel

  Definition, Function and Types of Lintels

What is a Lintel?

A lintel is a horizontal structural member placed across the opening and can be found on the top of a window or the door.

Lintel acts as a bridge between the two vertical supports.

The width of lintels is same as that of the wall. The end bearings for the lintel should be at least 200 mm.

Functions of Lintels

• Lintel distributes load vertically to the supporting wall.

• Lintel acts as an arch and can be used for decoration purpose of the wall.

• Lintels are provided on the opening to construct a load bearing wall above them.

Types of Lintels

Based on the materials on their construction Lintels are classified into following types

• Timber Lintels
• Stone Lintels
• Brick Lintels
• Steel Lintels
• Reinforced cement Lintels

Timber Lintles

Timber Lintels are rarely used nowadays and mainly these are used in hilly areas.

These are relatively costlier, structurally weak and decay at a fast rate.

Timber lintels are vulnerable to fire.

Stone Lintels

Stone Lintels are used in areas where stone are abundantly available.

These lintels are used only if span length is below 2m, as the stone is weak in tension they can be used only for small spans.

Stone is dressed to increase the appearance of the Lintels.

Brick Lintels

1st class bricks are used in the construction of Brick Lintels and used only for short span.

These are not structurally strong.

The lintel is to be cured for 7–14 days before formwork is removed.

Steel Lintels

Steel Lintels are used for long span where superimposed loads are also heavy.

Mainly steel with  I-sections is used as lintels.

Steel Lintels are painted regularly if they are exposed to the atmosphere.

Reinforced Cement Concrete Lintels

RCC Lintels are used for any span. It has replaced all other materials of lintels.

These Lintels have high strength, rigidity.

These are fire resistance and more economic.