Building Lintels

About Our Building Lintels

Building lintels are a highly important structural component in construction, used to support masonry above openings like doors, windows and garage entrances. By transferring load safely to the surrounding structure, lintels prevent cracking, settlement and lasting failure around openings. They are specified on new builds, extensions and structural alterations, making correct selection imperative, both for performance and compliance. Our lintels suit the requirements for domestic and light commercial building work, helping trades and experienced DIYers specify with confidence.

Types of Lintels for Building Work

Ourlintels category covers the most widely used lintel types found in modern construction. Selection is typically based on wall construction, span length, imposed load and finish requirements.

Steel Lintels

Steel lintels are favoured in cavity wall and solid wall construction where strength, consistency and reduced section depth are required. They are typically specified above doors and windows in masonry walls and are designed to carry both inner and outer leaf loads where applicable. Steel lintels are widely used on new housing developments and extensions due to their predictable performance and compatibility with modern wall build ups.

Concrete Lintels

Concrete lintels are traditionally chosen for solid masonry construction and refurbishment projects where existing detailing or load conditions favour concrete. They provide a robust solution for supporting brickwork or blockwork above openings and are often specified where durability and mass are required. Concrete lintels remain a common choice for structural repairs and traditional builds.

Padstones

Padstones are used in conjunction with lintels and beams to distribute load evenly into the supporting masonry. Installed at bearing points, padstones help prevent crushing of blocks or bricks and are often required to meet structural design and building control requirements. They are a key component when installing wider spans or higher load lintels.

How to Choose the Right Lintel

Correct lintel selection depends on several factors, including wall type, opening width, load above and whether the lintel must support a single leaf or cavity construction. Building regulations and structural drawings should always be followed, particularly on load-bearing walls. Installers should also consider bearing length, insulation detailing and compatibility with the surrounding masonry to ensure high performance.

Lintels are often installed early in the build sequence, so availability and correct sizing are essential to avoid delays. Many customers coordinate lintel supply alongside blocks, bricks and insulation to keep structural stages moving efficiently.

For specific lintel advice, customers are welcome to contact us.

Buy Lintels from Joseph Parr Alco

Joseph Parr Alco supports construction projects across Oldham and Salford by supplying building materials that align with standard site practice and specification requirements.

Building lintels can be ordered online as part of your structural materials package, with options to suit different build schedules outlined on our delivery and collection page.