Lintels

Lintels can be made from various materials, with concrete and steel being the two common options, both of which have their advantages and disadvantages.

Concrete Lintels:

Advantages of concrete lintels are its cost effectiveness as concrete is a relatively inexpensive building material and Fire resistance. 

The disadvantages are that concrete lintels can be heavy which may require additional support during installation, and it can be prone to cracking without proper reinforcement due to their limited tensile strength.

Steel Lintels:

Advantages of steel lintels are steel is known for its strength to weight ratio, making steel suitable for spanning larger openings, as well as being lightweight compared to concrete and are resistant to cracking, pests and corrosion (if galvanised stainless steel is used).

The disadvantages are that steel is generally more expensive than concrete and if not properly protected it can corrode leading to structural issues. Steel can also lose its strength and integrity when exposed to high temperatures, so fire protection measures may be needed.    

Choosing between them depends on factors such as the span of the opening, the budget, local building codes and the specific needs of the project.

FAQs

What types of lintels does laker stock?

We stock pre-stressed concrete lintels, Steel cavity lintels, Steel box lintels and Steel single leaf lintels, in a wide range of sizes to suit your project.

Why are steel lintels preferred for larger openings?

Steel lintels are preferred for larger openings because steel has a high strength-to-weight ratio, making it suitable for spanning greater distances. 

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