Structural terms

Lintel

A lintel is a horizontal structural member above a door, window or other opening that supports the masonry or other load above it.

Lintels can be made from stone, steel, concrete or other materials. They span an opening and pass the load above into the structure on either side. A lintel may be exposed in a stone façade or hidden behind plaster and finishes.

Many older Edinburgh buildings have stone lintels over sash windows and door openings. Cracks around an opening, distortion or a damaged lintel need careful investigation: the visible crack alone does not establish the cause.

When enlarging an opening or replacing a failing lintel, the new support and its bearings have to suit the wall above. Assessing the surrounding stonework and any shared structure is especially important in flats and historic buildings.

Property types

Commonly found in

Tenement Georgian Townhouse Victorian Villa Georgian Flat Converted Flat

Building glossary

Related building terms

Structural Alteration Stonework

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Related services

Structural Alterations

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