Expert: Michael Curry - 5/12/2010

Question
Hi Michael,
My question is how to install windows in a one story block building. My biggest concern is installing lintels in a new rough opening for a window. My building inspector from the town asked me what size of lintels I would be using, and I thought he would tell me what I would need. I know that code is 6" past each side opening and the blocks are 10" decorator blocks on the exterior of the building and it is 2X4 framed on the inside just to apply the drywall to. Could you tell me what size my lintels should be? The windows are (4)40" Wide X 48" High and (1)60" Wide X 48" High. Thanks and sorry for the elongated ramble.

Answer
Hi Todd,

The steel lintel size is never an issue with building inspections since they don't get inspected.
The lintel sizes are decided by the architect/engineer depending on load and typically a 40" opening would have a 3"x3" lintel and a 60" opening would have a 6"x3".