The Installer’s Checklist for Lintels
3rd April 2024 - By Danelle Vanstone
The Installer’s Checklist for Lintels
As a glazing installer, did you know that you are not just responsible for the windows and doors; you are also accountable for ensuring the structural integrity of the buildings you work on? Right down to the building regulations. This includes the often overlooked, but critically important, lintel. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to guide you through lintel inspections.
To understand lintels, prior to inspection, it’s important to understand that lintels come in various types and are made from different materials. Your approach may vary depending on whether you’re dealing with steel, concrete, or wood lintels.
A quick checklist:
Visual Assessment
- Check for visible cracks, bowing, or sagging above window and door frames
- Look for signs of water staining or corrosion which may indicate weaknesses.
Physical Inspection
- Examine the ends of the lintel for any signs of rotation or displacement.
- Assess the lintel for any signs of erosion, particularly in older stone lintels.
Property Era Considerations
- Properties from different eras may have specific lintel types. For instance, timber frames were common in older properties and may have been replaced with non-structural uPVC frames.
- For mid-20th-century buildings, be aware of ‘boot lintels’ which have unique inspection points due to their shape and construction.
Regulatory Compliance
- Confirm that lintel work complies with current Building Regulations and local codes.
- Make sure any replacements or adjustments do not alter the structural load-bearing capacity as defined by regulations.
Special Cases
- When dealing with enlargements or structural alterations, understand that these may require additional permissions and should be properly assessed by a structural engineer.
Final Checks
- Document any non-compliance or issues and communicate these with the homeowner.
- If in doubt, consult with lintel manufacturers or structural engineers for advice on appropriate actions.
If you are regularly installing replacement windows and doors, Certass is a glazing competent person scheme. All work registered with the Certass competent person scheme declares it complies with current building regulations and will receive a certificate to confirm this. Certass uniquely offers technical support and guidance to its registered installers. We would be happy to support you and your business, please click the join Certass now button to request more information and begin your registration journey with us!