Arches & Lintels
Lintels
Classification of lintels by material

It is a horizontal structural member that is fixed over the opening likes door, window, etc.
To support structure over the opening.
Generally rectangular in shape.
It acts like a beam & transfer load vertically to support the wall.

Classification of lintels by material

In hilly areas, where timber for the construction of lintel is easily available, wooden lintels are commonly used.
The use of wooden lintels is very rare on account of the high cost of the material.
Timber if not properly ventilated, may be decay.
Wood standing combustible so wooden lintels back side not be recommended to fire-proof construction.
Some minimum intensity of the lintel should be 7.6 cm.

The use of stone lintels is very common where stone available in large quantities.
Its is use stone masonry structures or buildings.
Minimum thickness of the stone lintel in kept 8 cm.

They are constructed with hard, well burnt, first-class bricks.
Depending against the span their depth varies of 10 cm. Depth of one brick to 20 cm. length of 1 brick.
Both are considered suitable for small openings generally not larger than 90 cm in span light loading conditions.
Bricks having frogs are more suitable for the construction of lintels.

When the depth of the lintel is to be restricted, then it is common to use steel lintel.
It consists of a section of rolled steel joists.

On account of durability, strength, and fire-resisting properties, reinforced concrete lintels are very common in use.
They are economical and easy in construction.
Both can be applied for bigger spans including heavy loading conditions.
It is constructed with 1:2:4 cement concrete reinforced with steel bars.
They may be pre-cast or cast-in-situ.
The amount of reinforcement depends upon the span of a lintel, width of opening & total based load to be supported by the lintel.
Each projection in the make of weather shed chajja can be easily taken excuse from the lintel. It should be launched the rainwater away from the wall and prevent the entry of water in the room.

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