Do you always need a lintel above a window?
Lintels are required for all openings over timber frames greater than 600mm in width, & for all openings over steel frames greater than 900mm.
What size lintel do I need UK?
Clear span is very simply the length of the opening. If you have a clear span of 1200mm, you will need a 1500mm length lintel to accommodate the required 150mm span on each side of the opening.
What is the minimum bearing for a lintel?
150mm
Lintels generally require a nominal minimum end bearing of 150mm at both ends, meaning the total lintel length is the span of the opening plus 300mm.
Do I need a lintel on both sides?
Your lintel needs to be supported well on either side of the opening it sits over to ensure the load coming from above is distributed evenly on both sides. If you have a cavity wall, your lintel will usually sit across the inner and outer leaves of the wall.
Do I need building regs for a lintel?
Yes, if the alterations are of a structural nature. The insertion of a beam or lintel which affects the structural stability of the building will also require approval.
Do all openings need lintels?
For all openings using timber frames over a width of 600 mm, and all openings using steel frames over 900 mm, then lintels are needed.
What type of lintel do I need for a window?
Prestressed concrete lintels play a pivotal role in any building’s structural integrity typically used for window and door openings.
Can I use timber as a lintel?
Concrete, steel and reinforced brickwork are acceptable materials for use as lintels. Timber lintels should not be used, unless: protected from weather. they do not support masonry or other rigid or brittle materials.
Can you use timber as a lintel?
Lintels are generally used for load-bearing purposes, but they can also be decorative. The most common materials for lintels are timber, steel and concrete. Timber is low cost, readily available and can be easily cut to size on site. However, it is generally only suited to small openings with low loadings.
Do I need planning permission to install a lintel?
Do you need a lintel for a small window?
1. Do we have to fit lintels to every window and door? In new build properties: yes. Under the current regulations, a lintel must be fitted to any brand new buildings.
Can you use a railway sleeper as a lintel?
New & used railway sleepers are excellent for creating dramatic fireplace surrounds, lintels and mantel pieces, whether you want a rustic, weathered look or a more contemporay, modern feel.
What are the requirements for support lintels?
Lintels, and supporting beams, shall be installed correctly, safely support the applied loads and be of the type and dimensions appropriate to their position within the structure. Issues to be taken into account include: placing lintels. Concrete, steel and reinforced brickwork are acceptable materials for use as lintels.
How far should a lintel extend?
Lintels should extend beyond the opening (at each end) by the minimum lengths shown in Table 5. The risk of condensation at potential cold bridges, such as reveals and soffits, increases as the level of wall insulation increases. To avoid cold bridging:
What is the best material to use as a lintel?
Concrete, steel and reinforced brickwork are acceptable materials for use as lintels. Timber lintels should not be used, unless: they do not support masonry or other rigid or brittle materials.
What are the regulations for replacing an external window?
The regulations apply to thermal performance and other areas such as safety, air supply, means of escape and ventilation. An external window or door is a “controlled fitting” under the Building Regulations and as a result of this classification these Regulations set out certain standards to be met when such a window or door is replaced.