When the average person thinks about lintels, they typically think about the food, lentil, but what if we told you that lintels are an essential part of a building’s infrastructure? In this article, we will explain the different types of lintels and their uses in construction.

What Is a Lintel?

A lintel is a type of beam that supports the partition wall for openings like windows or doors and is essential to support the structure of the building. The main function of the lintel is to distribute the load from the above wall to the side walls. 

Concrete Lintels

Concrete lintels are one of the most common lintels used in construction projects. These lintels are durable and versatile because they can adapt to any size and shape above doors and windows. Precast concrete lintels are popular because they support heavier loads and larger areas.

Stone Lintels

A stone lintel is a standard lintel typically used where the stone is easily accessible. Since they’re heavy, stone lintels can be found in stone masonry buildings and have lots of layering. However, there are problems with stone lintels, such as high costs and vulnerability to stress, and they’re difficult to transport due to their weight.

Timber Lintels

Timber lintels, or wooden lintels, are one of the oldest kinds of lintels. These lintels are primarily used in hilly environments where wood is easily accessible. Sometimes, wooden lintels are accompanied by steel plates at the top and base to help carry the load. However, timber lintels are less durable and can rot without proper ventilation. 

Steel Lintels

Steel lintels are often used when the wall above is heavy and has a large opening gap. Despite popular belief, steel lintels are less affected by erosion after installation and can last for years without repair. Steel lintels are also popular because they require less labor, especially when combined with concrete lintels.

Knowing different types of lintels and their uses in construction is important because if you don’t use suitable lintels, you can compromise your building’s structure. If your project requires structural support, Extech Building Materials has precast concrete lintels that can withstand heavy loads. Take the time today to look at our endless supply of trustworthy building materials.