Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 6/16/2009

Question
QUESTION: I am removing and replacing windows in the downstairs of a block home. The window lintels that are in place now are about 1/8 of an inch thick and are bowing significantly. So there are two lintels per window because the exterior of the home is brick. Instead of ripping out both lintels and having to worry about securing the brick and block above them, my idea is to leave the current lintels in place and basically fabricate a (T) to slip in under both lintels to lessen the problems that may occur during the removal of the lintels. The specs of the (T) would be 1/4 inch thick by 10" wide for the top of the (T) and 3/16 thick by three inches long for the bottom. Of course the lengths would vary for each opening but will keep at least six inches past the openings on both sides of the windows, per the building code. So the question is whether this is going to be feasible or should I just leave the old ones in place. Keep in mind this home was built in 1984, I don't think it will bow much more but we are putting in Andersen windows, I would hate for them to be ruined down the road. Sorry this question was so long but it needed to be so you could get the whole picture. Thanks so much. Scott

ANSWER: Hi Scott, So you are removing the old lintels and replacing them with new lintels?  Also, what are you calling a lintel?  Normally in masonry construction a solid poured concrete lintel is used above windows are you describing steel angles that support the masonry?  Also you say the lintels are bowed.  Do you mean they are sagging in the middle or actually bowing to the outside?  Also the T thing has me confused, sorry.  Would you leave the T in place?  and if so,  won't the bottom leg of the T interfere with the window installation? If you can answer some of these questions I may be able to help further, sincerely bruce e johnson

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QUESTION: I am not removing the old steel lintels, yes there are two pieces of angled steel lintel above each window. They are sagging in the middle. We do not think the original lintels are sufficient to hold up the block and the brick. The fabricated (T's) will be turned upside down and slid in place over the old lintels to reenforce them. I hope I was able to clarify, sorry I confused you it is somewhat difficult to explain. Thanks Scott

Answer
HI again Scott, it bothers me that the angle iron is sagging in the middle.  Normally the angle iron is just installed until the masonry bond beam above is poured with reinforced concrete.  After that concrete reaches design strength the header masonry shouldn't even need the angles.  So I am wondering about the entire bond beam and header construction process used in this house.  That said, whatever you can do to reinforce that header is definitely needed.  I'm still not sure how your T design will work with your window install but having a leg in the middle will help keep the existing lintel from failing further.  I hope this information helps feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com