Steel Lintels
(18 Products)Steel lintels are horizontal support beams comprised of steel, they are typically placed above doors or windows in order to support the weight of the wall above windows or doors. The lintels are isotropic, due to the uniform level of strength steel has when compared to anisotropic materials such as timber.
What are Steel Lintels
Steel lintels are typically comprised of high-strength rolled steel, and welded into angles, channels, or beams which are placed above doors or windows to bear structural load.
These steel beams provide an optimal strength-to-weight ratio, thus they are able to withstand substantial loads without being excessively bulky or heavy.
Furthermore, the steel is galvanised, which effectively renders the lintels resistant to corrosion as the zinc coating protects the underlying steel from rust. In turn, the lifespan of the lintels is increased, and the maintenance costs are decreased.
The underlying benefit of using steel lintels is that they are isotropic, meaning their strength and integrity are consistent throughout the body, whilst being at a weight suitable for lifting.
Where are Steel Lintels Used?
There are many variations of steel lintels suited for the same purpose but in different locations, such as:
· Loose Angles: Used in non-load-bearing walls, primarily to support masonry over small openings like windows and doors.
· Combinations: Utilised in load-bearing walls, multiple steel members are combined to support extreme loads over larger openings.
· Single-Angles: Purposed for light-duty applications such as small openings.
· Steel Beam/Plates: Used to support significant structural loads over wide spans, such as large windows or doorways.
· Shelf Angles: Predominantly used to support the outer layer of masonry within cavity walls, like a support ledge for brickwork.
Steel Lintel Benefits
· Load Bearing: Steel is capable of withstanding heavy loads at a lighter weight.
· Galvanised Layer: The steel lintels are coated in a zinc coating, increasing their resistance to rust and other forms of degradation.
· Uniform Strength: Steel lintels are isotropic, thus the strength throughout the body of the lintel is even and has no weak points in comparison to timber which is anisotropic.
· Diverse Range: Steel lintels are manufactured for different purposes or load-bearing capabilities.
Steel Lintel Handling/Storage
Steel lintels that arrive in factory packs must be stored on firm, even surfaces at a suitable height. It is advised that loose lintels should be stored on pallets or suitable racking.
When handling the products, gloves should be worn to avoid cuts or scrapes from the sharp edges. Furthermore, when lifting and carrying, proper technique must be used to avoid injury.
Frequently Asked Steel Lintels Questions
What are the Minimum Requirements Needed to Install Steel Lintels?
Steel lintels need a minimum end bearing of 150mm, bedded on mortar and levelled along its length across its width. Furthermore, a minimum of 150mm masonry is required between the flange (protruded ridge) and the application level.
What is a Thermally Broken Lintel?
Thermally broken lintels prevent heat loss caused by thermal bridging using a thermal break – typically a material with low thermal conductivity – between the inner and outer sections.
What Does Isotropic Mean?
In regards to steel lintels the term isotropic describes the level of strength steel has across its whole body, in this instance, steel lintels possess even strength throughout their entirety.
