How much does it cost to replace a window lintel?

Author: Kari Rogahn  |  Last update: Sunday, July 12, 2026

The average door or window lintel replacement cost is $460, but it can range between $280 and $640, depending on the material and length. Door or window lintel replacement costs $460 on average, though it can range between $200 and $800. Many homeowners may have never heard of a lintel, let alone given it much thought.

Is replacing a lintel a big job?

Steel Lintel Repair

The work required to remove an old lintel is quite extensive. The load above the lintel will require propping (by using acrow props or similar), and there will likely be a need for an access scaffold to reach all areas.

How much does a lintel above a window cost?

Factors such as the size of the opening, whether it's a window or a larger span like a garage door, can affect this valuation, with window lintel replacements generally costing between £600 and £1,200.

Can you replace a window lintel?

Evidence of cracks at this stage is obviously a concern for the homeowner. In these instances the lintel will need to be reinforced (or replaced) before you remove and install new windows. If you are dealing with a brick flat arch lintels, you can easily carry out lintel repair with helical spiral bars.

Do I need a structural engineer to replace a lintel?

You don't need a structural engineer. Ignore anyone saying that. It's merely a failure of the facework which can be repaired by a bricky.

Bricklaying - Repairing Badly Installed Lintel with KC

Does building insurance cover lintels?

Cracks that are caused by natural settlement, thermal movement due to temperature changes, and lack of door and window lintels are usually classed as wear and tear, so are not covered by home insurance.

What are the symptoms of a lintel failure?

Typical signs of lintel defects include deflection/bowing to the head of windows or brickwork above; vertical cracking above windows; and stepped cracking through internal or external skins of masonry (above and below windows).

How to fix lintel failure?

If you're a professional builder or incredibly confident DIY'er, you can repair lintel by:
  1. Cutting into the mortar between the bricks and above the lintel;
  2. Inserting props and masonry supports;
  3. Removing the current bricks;
  4. Removing the damaged lintel;
  5. Replacing the lintel;
  6. Replacing the bricks; and.

Do window companies fit lintels?

A FENSA registered builder or installer should do that. Replacement windows: no, we don't have to fit a lintel every time. So, if we're changing your windows and your windows already have lintels in then we don't have to charge people for a lintel.

Do you need permission to replace a lintel?

In certain circumstances, replacing a lintel may require planning permission. Some exceptions that may warrant planning permission include alterations to listed buildings, changes to the appearance of the building's façade, or work in designated conservation areas.

Who installs lintels?

Bersche-Rolt offer a complete lintel installation service which includes a free of charge lintel condition survey, and a design and installation service. We install both traditional lintels and our patented stainless steel reinforced masonry lintel systems.

How much does it cost to repair a window lintel?

Repairing a lintel in a window cost between $150 and $400 to repair, with labor included. If your lintel is located in a door, the cost to repair a door lintel is slightly higher, closer to the $400 price point.

What does a window lintel look like?

Window lintels are beams that run along the top of windows in order to support and properly distribute the structure's overall weight. In the past, they would most often be found in masonry or brick structures, but nowadays they are a requirement in any building without proper weight support.

Is a lintel load-bearing?

Lintel beams are a load-bearing construction element designed to support openings within masonry walls. If a window or door is installed without support the structure will be compromised as these elements will not be able to hold the weight.

When should lintels be replaced?

Noticeable defects in your lintel, such as cracks, bending, or sagging due to moisture, indicate that it must be replaced as soon as possible. Lintel defects can adversely impact the masonry around it.

Can you fix into a lintel?

It is entirely possible to drill into a concrete lintel, however, it will not be easy, and there may be some consequences, especially when you are doing it on your own. When it is incorrectly done, damaging your concrete lintel can be a result, and you will need to have it repaired.

Who can replace a window lintel?

Due to the nature of the work, lintel replacement should be carried out by a competent contractor, as the exterior walls will need to remain supported whilst the lintel is being replaced.

Does every window need a lintel?

While some steel-framed windows are made with built-in lintels, most windows need a lintel to protect them from downward pressure from overhead loading. A window without a lintel may become bowed under pressure and be difficult to open and close. Without a lintel, the masonry over an opening may become unstable.

How are lintels installed?

Steel Lintels should be installed with a minimum end bearing of 150mm, bedded on mortar and levelled along its length and across its width. The masonry above the lintel should be built in accordance with BS EN 1996-2:2006.

What are the symptoms of a lintel failure crack?

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.

How to tell if lintel is steel or concrete?

Concrete lintels are often gray in color and look similar to a concrete block. Concrete lintels have an “unfinished” style and would often look great with brick walls due to concrete's contrasting gray shade to the brick's classic red color. On the other hand, steel lintels have a sleek and industrial look.

Does a crack in the lintel mean my house is going to collapse?

Cracking to window lintels is a tell-tell sign of movement within a structure and shows that the lintel that supports the masonry above the window has failed. The threat of collapse is very real in many circumstances and a crack in the lintel should never be overlooked.

How do you replace a load-bearing lintel?

Steps to installing a Lintel
  1. Minimum End Bearing. ...
  2. Bedded on Mortar. ...
  3. Make Sure the Lintel is Level. ...
  4. Allow Mortar to Cure Before Applying Loads. ...
  5. Lay Bricks on Both Sides. ...
  6. Install a Damp Proof Course if Necessary. ...
  7. Propping Lintels.

Should you caulk above a lintel?

Sadly, for many years it was common practice to install sealant/caulking between the steel lintels and masonry above. This practice resulted in moisture trapped behind the sealant, resting on the steel, and accelerating the corrosion.

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