What is a window lintel?

Whether you’re renovating a building or designing a new construction, ensuring it’s structurally sound is a key consideration. When it comes to openings for doors, windows, and knock-throughs, this rigidity is provided by a lintel.

That said, there’s often confusion around what exactly window lintels are, and which lintel to use in a specific scenario. Here, we answer some of the most commonly asked questions about this construction product.

A lintel is a horizontal structural component placed over the opening to provide support for all the loads present above it. There is no classification for which type of circumstance they are used in, be it for doors or window frames.

There are various types of lintels to choose from. Steel lintels are very popular in modern building projects, largely thanks to their fairly light weight, strength and available spans. They are a great choice for all types of wall construction.

The most popular alternative material to steel over short spans is concrete. There are also stone lintels, used for decorative purposes, but often times, these require steel lintels for the additional structural support.

Most modern cavity wall steel lintels are thermally broken – meaning their inner and outer leaf are completely separated by the rigid insulation block. This type of lintel design significantly reduces heat loss above the windows and doors and makes buildings more energy efficient.

The short answer is, yes. Lintels are used to bear the structural weight of the wall and all other loads present above the window opening, irrespective of its size.

Technically, UK building regulations do not specifically demand the use of ‘window’ lintels. However, lintels are required under building regulations.

Investing in quality lintels, especially the thermally broken type, will not only ensure the best end results (ease of installation, corrosion resistance, structural consistency), but also keep you compliant with building regulations, such as:

Thermal efficiency: Under the latest Part L building regulations, all elements of construction should be planned in a way that prevents condensation and reduces heat loss. When it comes to window lintels, selecting thermally broken lintels will help you meet the energy efficiency standards for your property.

Fire safety: Lintels installed in load-bearing walls must be able to withstand a fire for a sufficient period of time without losing their structural integrity.

From small decorative windows to large bay windows, using the correct structural support and making sure you’re adhering to building regulations is crucial. Here at Catnic, we have more than five decades of experience manufacturing lintels, and can help you choose the best fit for your project.

Contact our team of experts to find out more about selecting window lintels.