What Is & What Are The Types Of Lintel Chicago, IL

What is Lintel?

Lintel beams, which span openings such as doors, windows, and other openings in a building, support the load of the structure above them. The lintel beam's width matches the wall's width, and its ends are integrated into the wall. Lintel replacements Chicago are categorized according to the material used to make them.

Types of Lintel used in Building Construction

1. Timber Lintel
Historically, timber lintels were mostly employed by masonry contractors Chicago. However, they have been mostly supplanted by a variety of newer procedures. The primary disadvantages of wood are its increased cost, decreased durability, and susceptibility to fire.
2. Stone Lintel
Particularly in masonry areas where the stone is readily available, this is the most common type. Thickness is the most important design element.
3. Brick Lintel
The smaller openings and lesser loads require these. Depending on the span, it can be 10 to 20 cm deep.

There are a few instances when replacing your lintel is not only suggested but needed. These instances are when you don't take any shortcuts and hire professional masonry contractors in the Chicago area. A good example is when you are replacing your windows, you would need to have a lintel replacement done as well. At this point, it is the perfect time to replace it completely since the window is already out and the lintel is exposed.

The lintel replacement in Chicago is at the lowest cost during this process and will probably not affect your budget too much.

When you are buying or selling a property that needs inspection, you may have to do a lintel replacement in Chicago. Most older properties will not have a proper lintel which means they will need one installed. For your property to pass inspection and move forward with the contract, adding lintel is required. Call Extreme Lintel Replacement today!

The best masonry contractors Chicago has, know there’s no such thing as the best material for lintels. Instead, the selection depends on your particular needs.

Wood lintels are the traditional kind because they used to be the only option in the past. They are practical as long as they are not used as a foundation for heavy loads. In that case you might want to consider a lintel replacement.

Stone lintels are aesthetic and solid, however they are costly and heavy. If your goal is a stylish look, stone lintels are a great choice for you. The top masonry companies Chicago citizens go to, have a wide catalog to achieve the look you desire. 

Steel lintels are designed to support heavier loads and they have become popular in construction because of their endurance. New materials are introduced to the market that are more resistant to oxidation and corrosion as long as they’re not permanently exposed to water.

Fissures Over The Mortar
Visible cracks or fissures on the mortar result from inadequate support. They can be vertical, horizontal or step-shaped, and they tend to get bigger with time. As mortar loses strength, it can be a major hazard as it might come to a point when it can’t stand on its own. This is a major reason to hire one of the professional masonry companies Chicago has.

Falling Mortar Residues
Dust and small debris, or mortar pieces in the worst cases, are clear signs that you are due for the best lintel replacement Chicago offers. It is likely that the lintel integrity is not solid enough to support the building anymore. 

In-Sight Corrosion
This is a problem commonly found in steel lintels. When installed in considerably humid areas or when they are in frequent contact with moisture, they develop corrosion, another indication it’s time to call the masonry contractors Chicago.

When is lintel replacement or repair needed? How do I know?

If you notice any cracks in the upper corners of your doors and windows, it is a sign that you need to call professionals to check if you need a lintel replacement or repair. 

Should I DIY lintel replacement?

Lintel supports your structure. Due to the nature of the work, lintel replacement must be done by competent masonry contractors Chicago to keep the exterior wall supported while the lintel is being replaced. 

What is the durability of a lintel?

Steel lintels that professionals install can last between five to ten years. 

What other jobs can I do simultaneously while the lintel replacement?

It is also a good idea to ask your masonry contractors Chicago to check your windows, doors, garage doors, springs, and others during the lintel replacement to ensure that everything is in good condition.