Why the Ends of Lintels Are Built in Masonry
The ends of lintels are built in masonry in order to provide sufficient support for the structure above the opening.
Lintels are beams that are placed across openings in buildings and their width is equal to the width of the wall.
By building the ends of the lintel into the wall, it ensures that the load from the structure above is properly distributed and supported.
The type of lintel used, whether it be timber, stone, brick, steel, or reinforced concrete, will determine the specific design and installation requirements for achieving the necessary load-bearing capability.
Did You Know?
1. The practice of building the ends of lintels in masonry dates back to ancient Egypt, where it was believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.
2. In medieval Europe, the ends of lintels were sometimes crafted in intricate patterns and designs, serving as a form of artistic expression and a symbol of status.
3. The use of masonry on the ends of lintels not only provides structural support, but also helps to distribute the weight evenly, preventing sagging or bending over time.
4. Lintels with masonry ends have been found to have better fire resistance compared to those without, making them a favored choice in areas prone to fire hazards.
5. The incorporation of masonry on the ends of lintels also helps to protect the wooden or metal beam within from moisture damage, increasing its lifespan and durability.
Introduction To Lintels In Masonry Construction
Lintels are critical components in building construction as they provide support for structures above openings such as windows and doors. These horizontal beams are placed across the openings and transfer the load from walls and floors to the supporting walls on either side.
A distinguishing feature of lintels is their integration into masonry walls, which guarantees a strong and stable connection.
This article will explore different types of lintels, their respective uses, highlight the significance of proper end bearings, provide installation guidelines, and cover important considerations for design and selection of lintels.
Types Of Lintels And Their Uses
Lintels come in different materials and designs to accommodate varying loads and span requirements. Timber lintels, which were commonly used in the past, have been largely replaced by more modern techniques. However, they are still used in hilly areas where timber is abundant. Stone lintels, on the other hand, are the most common type and are employed in regions where stone is readily available. The thickness of stone lintels is a critical factor in their design to ensure structural stability.
For smaller openings with lesser loads, brick lintels are commonly used. They have a similar width to the wall and are suitable for openings less than 1m. Reinforced brick lintels, on the other hand, are utilized for heavy loads and spans greater than 1m. These lintels consist of reinforcement bars inserted between adjacent bricks and vertical stirrups for additional support.
When heavy loads and large openings need to be supported, steel lintels are the preferred choice. Made of channel sections or rolled steel joists, steel lintels offer excellent strength and durability. Lastly, reinforced concrete lintels have become widely popular due to their strength, rigidity, fire resistance, economy, and ease of construction. They are suitable for a wide range of applications and offer reliable load-bearing capabilities.
Importance Of Proper End Bearings For Lintels
To ensure the stability and support of lintels, it is crucial to have sufficient end bearings. The correct length of end bearing for lintels is a nominal minimum of 150mm at both ends. This means that the total lintel length should be the span of the opening plus an additional 300mm.
The provision of adequate end bearings secures the connection between the lintel and the masonry walls, evenly distributing the loads and preventing deflection. Without proper end bearings, lintels may fail to adequately support the loads above the openings, leading to structural issues and safety hazards.
Incorrectly designed or installed lintels can result in sagging or cracking of walls, compromising the integrity of the building. It is imperative to take into account the specific span and load requirements when determining the appropriate length of end bearings for lintels.
Installation And Bedding Guidelines For Lintels
During the installation of lintels, leveling them is crucial to ensure an even distribution of loads and proper support. The ends of the lintel with the 150mm bearing should be fully bedded on bricklaying mortar to effectively transfer loads, minimize deflection, and promote overall stability.
To guarantee the structural integrity of the lintel, it is crucial to follow specific guidelines and design details during the installation process. Different types of lintels may require additional structural elements, such as reinforcement bars or stirrups, to achieve their intended load-bearing capabilities. Therefore, it is essential to consult the manufacturer’s instructions and adhere to the recommended installation and bedding procedures.
- Level the lintels to achieve even load distribution and proper support.
- Fully bed the ends of the lintel with the 150mm bearing on bricklaying mortar.
- Follow guidelines and design details to ensure structural integrity.
- Additional structural elements may be required for different types of lintels.
- Consult manufacturer’s instructions for recommended installation and bedding procedures.
Considerations For Designing And Selecting Lintels
Designing and selecting the appropriate lintels is a critical aspect of masonry construction. The specific requirements of the building, including loads, spans, and material availability, must be taken into account. Designers and architects should carefully consider the structural details and incorporate lintels into the construction plans to ensure proper support and load-bearing capability.
Furthermore, it is essential to specify the correct type of lintel for the intended application and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for design and installation. Manufacturers often provide product selector tools that assist in choosing the right lintel for various types and applications, considering specific design and installation requirements. By adhering to these guidelines, the integrity and safety of the building’s structure can be preserved.
“By adhering to these guidelines, the integrity and safety of the building’s structure can be preserved.”
Lintels play a crucial role in masonry construction as they provide critical support to the structure above openings. The ends of lintels are built into the masonry walls to ensure a secure and stable connection. Different types of lintels, such as timber, stone, brick, steel, and reinforced concrete, are utilized based on the specific requirements of the building. Proper end bearings, installation guidelines, and careful consideration during design and selection are vital to ensure the correct functioning and load-bearing capability of lintels.
–Design and select the appropriate lintels based on building requirements, considering loads, spans, and material availability
–Incorporate lintels into construction plans to ensure proper support and load-bearing capability
–Specify the correct type of lintel for the intended application
–Follow manufacturer’s instructions for design and installation
–Utilize product selector tools provided by manufacturers
–Consider structural details during lintel design and selection
–Build the ends of lintels into the masonry walls for a secure connection
–Choose from different types of lintels, such as timber, stone, brick, steel, and reinforced concrete, based on building requirements
-*Ensure proper end bearings and careful installation for correct functioning and load-bearing capability.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What should the end bearing of a lintel be greater than?
In order to ensure structural stability and proper load distribution, the end bearing of a lintel should be greater than 150mm. This nominal minimum end bearing is crucial for reinforcing the lintel’s strength and preventing any potential sagging or failure. By extending the bearing length to 300mm, including an additional 150mm on each end, the overall lintel length adequately supports the span of the opening, thereby ensuring reliable load-bearing capacity. This substantial end bearing not only increases the durability and lifespan of the lintel but also contributes to the overall structural integrity of the building.
What is a lintel for masonry opening?
A lintel for a masonry opening serves as a crucial support element for a wall. It is a structural member that is placed horizontally over the opening, providing strength and stability to the wall. Lintels in brick masonry walls can be constructed using various materials, such as reinforced brick masonry, brick masonry arches, precast concrete, or structural steel shapes. The lintel’s primary function is to distribute the load above the opening evenly, preventing any sagging or collapsing of the wall. Additionally, lintels enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the wall, showcasing the craftsmanship and architectural detailing of the masonry construction.
What is the end bearing of a lintel?
The end bearing of a lintel refers to the amount of support it provides at each end of the brick or CMU wall. To calculate the end bearing, divide the length of the bearing unit in half. The National Concrete Masonry Association recommends a minimum length of 4 inches for the end bearing calculation. For instance, if you are designing a lintel for a CMU wall, you would determine the end bearing by dividing the length of the CMU unit in half, ensuring it meets the minimum requirement.
What is the end bearing for a steel lintel?
The required end bearing for a steel lintel is a minimum of 150mm. It is important to ensure proper installation by placing the lintel on a mortar bed, ensuring it is level along its length and width. This ensures optimal load distribution and structural integrity.