What Are the Signs of Damaged Lintels?

If your commercial building has damaged lintels, it is a sign water is not draining properly form the wall. These horizontal supports are integral to bearing the weight of the structure above windows, doors, and other openings in your building's masonry or concrete walls. Over time, however, lintels can become compromised due to a variety of factors, including age, weather, and poor installation.

When it comes to maintaining the structural integrity of your building, it's crucial to pay close attention to the condition of your lintels so you can determine when they require repair or replacement. Find out more about damaged lintels and lintel repair in this blog.

What causes rusting lintels?

Apart from cracks, rusting lintels can also pose a serious threat to your building's safety and stability. As moisture seeps into the masonry or concrete surrounding the lintel, the metal can begin to rust and weaken. Weakening of the metal can lead to bowing or sagging of the wall above the lintel, as well as other damage.

What Are the Signs of a Failing Lintel?

A failing lintel can cause a number of serious problems for your building. Here are the most common signs of failing lintels:

• Cracks in the Brickwork

One of the most obvious signs of a failing lintel is the appearance of cracks in the brickwork above the opening. These cracks can be caused by the lintel under the weight of the structure above it, which puts stress on the brickwork. If left unattended, these cracks can become wider and eventually compromise the entire structural integrity of the wall.

• Sagging or Bowing Lintel

Another sign of a failing lintel is when it appears to be sagging or bowing under the weight of the structure above it. The reason for this is that the lintel is unable to bear the load it was designed for. Sometimes this is also caused by corrosion in steel lintels.

Difficulties with Doors or Windows

If you notice that doors or windows around the opening are difficult to open or close, it could be a sign of a failing lintel. It means the lintel is no longer providing adequate support to the structure above it. The lintel may have even shifted out of position, causing the opening to become misaligned.

Cracks or Bulges in the Wall

Cracks or bulges in the wall around the opening could also be a sign of a failing lintel. Walls will crack or bulge when the lintel is unable to bear the load of the structure above it. In some cases, the wall may even begin to bow or lean, which can be a serious safety risk.

Uneven Appearance

You may want to consider replacing or repairing a lintel if it appears to be uneven or out of alignment. A lintel which is no longer providing adequate support to the structure above it causes this misalignment. An uneven lintel can also cause the wall to appear crooked or distorted, which can be unsightly and reduce the value of your property.

What Can I Do About Damaged Lintels?

If you suspect that your lintels may be damaged, don't hesitate to take action. It is better to address problems in lintels before it becomes more costly. Ignoring the problem can also lead to serious consequences, including structural damage or collapse.

Fortunately, there are a variety of lintel replacement and masonry lintel repair options available depending on the severity of the damage. Your contractor may recommend window lintel repair (or window lintel replacement), brick lintel replacement and repair, column lintel repair, concrete lintel repair, or even replacement of the entire lintel area.

Older structures (older than 40 years) typically only had steel lintels installed. Today’s standard includes the use of flashing and end dams to prevent water from staying in the wall and on the lintel. 

A potential lentil repair often is to install or replace the flashing that is intended to allow moisture in the wall to migrate out instead of dwelling on the steel lintel which will create corrosion.

RestoreWorks Masonry Restoration provides masonry lintel repair in the Chicago area. With years of experience in the industry, our team of experts is well-equipped to handle all types of lintel repair and restoration projects. We use only the most up to date materials and procedures and all of our field personnel are all formally trained on how to install lintels and flashing, ensuring that your structure is restored to its original condition and is safe and stable for years to come.

To ensure that your damaged lintels are repaired and restored by a professional and reliable team, contact us today!