Installing Short Lintels in an Existing Wall
Installing Short Lintels in an Existing Wall
(OP)
I don't sanction it but for installing short lintels (i.e. 2'-6" to 3'-0") in existing masonry some masons just take out the old and reinstall the new, with no needling, pinch beams, shoring, etc.
How would you folks respond to such a practice where you know or suspect it takes place? Just curious.
How would you folks respond to such a practice where you know or suspect it takes place? Just curious.






RE: Installing Short Lintels in an Existing Wall
One would typically find this most often with small openings, as you mentioned, but depending on floor to floor height it could apply to larger openings as well.
Hope this helps.
Virginia PE, SE
RE: Installing Short Lintels in an Existing Wall
RE: Installing Short Lintels in an Existing Wall
If I designed the wall to be shored prior to cutting the new opening and installing the new lintel, then of course I would call them out on it. It not only deviates from the contract documents but also may be causing other irreversible damage to the permanent structure. I think you also have leverage to influence the Owner to stop the work.
If you didn't call for it to be shored and it doesn't need to be shored then the contractor is simply using their own means and methods for installing the new lintel.
Virginia PE, SE
RE: Installing Short Lintels in an Existing Wall
RE: Installing Short Lintels in an Existing Wall
RE: Installing Short Lintels in an Existing Wall
I have seen many masons have a shoring in post in the middle of a long lintel on new construction. They feel the lintel is just formwork and the brick holds it self up. Probably alot of truth to that.
RE: Installing Short Lintels in an Existing Wall
I like to debate structural engineering theory -- a lot. If I challenge you on something, know that I'm doing so because I respect your opinion enough to either change it or adopt it.