Concrete lintels are primarily installed by bedding them securely on a layer of mortar, ensuring they are properly levelled, and providing adequate support on solid bearing areas.
Lintels are crucial structural components used above openings like windows and doors to support the load from the wall above. Proper installation ensures the stability and longevity of the structure.
Key Steps for Installing Concrete Lintels
The process focuses on correctly positioning the lintel and ensuring it has sufficient support points.
Prepare the Opening
Ensure the opening is clean and the surfaces where the lintel will rest (the bearing points) are ready. The width of the opening and the required bearing length determine the lintel size needed.
Bedding the Lintel
The base where the lintel sits must be prepared with mortar. This provides an even surface and helps distribute the load. As advised in general installation tips for lintels:
- The lintel should be bedded on mortar...
Apply a suitable layer of mortar to the bearing areas on both sides of the opening.
Ensuring it's Level
Once the lintel is placed on the mortar bed, it must be checked for levelness. This is vital for ensuring loads are transferred correctly and the structure remains plumb.
- ...and levelled both along the lintel and across its width.
Use a spirit level to check that the top surface of the lintel is horizontal along its length and across its width. Adjust its position within the mortar bed as needed before the mortar sets.
Providing Proper Bearing
The ends of the lintel, which rest on the supporting walls, require sufficient bearing length. The material used for these bearing points is critical for supporting the lintel's load and the load it carries.
- Full bricks, blocks or padstones should be used as bearing areas.
These solid materials provide a stable and strong base for the lintel. Conversely, avoid using materials that are not designed to take concentrated loads at their edges.
- DO NOT bear lintels onto cut blocks.
Cut blocks may not have the same load-bearing capacity or structural integrity at the cut face as a full, intact unit or a dedicated padstone.
Summary of Best Practice
Based on general installation guidelines, remember these key points:
| Action | Description |
|---|---|
| Bed on Mortar | Provides an even base for the lintel. |
| Ensure Level | Level the lintel along length and across width. |
| Use Proper Bearing | Use full bricks, blocks, or padstones for support. |
| Avoid | Bearing lintels onto cut blocks. |
Following these steps ensures the lintel is correctly installed to carry the intended loads safely.
