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Bricklaying & Repointing
Lintel above patio door
Anonymous user 14 March 2017 - 8.22 AM
Hi looking to see how I can sort this out on a budget. Live in a bungalow that previous owners had new windows put in, the patio door which spans 2m appears not to have an external lintel as the bricks are sagging, it seems the door replaced a window and back door as there is a concrete internal lintel but no external. There are only 3 courses of bricks above the door before the roof level. I am thinking of removing the bricks laying a flat steel across the span then re bricking. Anyone please advise the thickness of steel to span the door. I am aware that it will have to sit at least 150 either side of the opening but I am trying to workout what thickness of steel I can use. I know I should use a proper lintel but my budget will not allow.
2 answers from MyBuilder tradespeople
Hi Cliff, obviously a lintel would be best but if something is only required to support the brickwork and is not taking load from the roof then I'd suggest using a length of 70mm x 70mm x 8mm angle iron, about £30 on eBay. Angle iron is less likely to bend where as a flat piece of steel will still sag under the weight of the bricks. It's important that before removing anything at all that you check the roof is supported. Usually a timber beam called a wall plate will be taking the load at the top of the wall and as long as this is supported it will be ok to remove the brickwork and rebuild in this area. If you're at all unsure please ask a local builder or bricklayer to help, its not a big job but could turn into something bigger if things go wrong. Best of luck, Rob
Answered
14 March 2017
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You could use this: http://www.diy.com/departments/expamet-pre-stressed-reinforced-concrete-lintel-l2100mm-w100mm/150793_BQ.prd Less than £17. If the roof is not sagging where the bricks are sagging that is usually a good indication that the roof is supported and it is safe to co the work yourself.
Answered
14 March 2017
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