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Install or replace a brick lintel.
Steel, concrete or brick-on-edge — sizing, propping and bedding for a load-bearing door or window.
✓ Updated May 2026✓ Free quotes✓ Vetted pros
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Costs, timelines, pitfalls and the right questions to ask before any bricklayer starts on brick Lintels — Types, Install & UK Replacement.
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Four moves that separate a smooth job from a nightmare.
Rusted steel lintel
— common in 1960s–80s construction. Replace.
Inadequate end bearings
— lintel slides; brickwork settles.
Wrong lintel type
— internal vs external use, fire rating.
Propping failure
— brickwork above collapses during work.
Costs & timeline
Know what it costs. Know when it ends.
Indicative UK ranges and what affects price.
Cost range
By job type
Inc. VAT · 2026
Source: NMT quotes
Source: NMT quotes
Steel lintel replacement (standard window)Inc. labour, materials
£400–£1k
Concrete lintel replacementInc. brickwork repair
£500–£1.2k
Brick arch repairSkilled heritage work
£600–£1.8k
Stone lintel replacementMaterial premium
£800–£2.5k
Major opening (large window/door)Bigger spans
£1.2k–£3.5k
!
Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.
At a glance
InfographicThe Bricklayer briefing.
Infographic
Bricklayer quick-view
Lintels are the structural elements above window and door openings — carrying the weight of brickwork (and roof) above the gap. They're essential, often invisible, and when they fail, the brickwork above cracks. This guide covers lintel types, when they need replacing, and what UK lintel work costs in 2026.
Most modern lintels are steel (concealed in cavity) or concrete (often clad in brick). Heritage work uses brick arches or stone.
Types of Lintel
- Steel lintel: most common modern. Catnic and IG are major UK brands. Hidden in cavity wall.
- Concrete lintel: pre-cast concrete beam. Sometimes visible above older windows.
- Brick arch lintel: traditional. Bricks themselves form the structure.
- Soldier brick lintel: flat course of bricks on edge with reinforcement behind.
- Stone lintel: heritage and high-end. Single stone block or composite.
When Lintels Need Replacing
- Visible cracks in brickwork above window/door.
- Sagging mortar joints above opening.
- Stepped cracks running from window corners.
- Water ingress at top of window.
- Rust staining (steel lintel corroding).
Typical Costs
| Item | Low £ | High £ | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steel lintel replacement (standard window) | 400 | 1,000 | Inc. labour, materials |
| Concrete lintel replacement | 500 | 1,200 | Inc. brickwork repair |
| Brick arch repair | 600 | 1,800 | Skilled heritage work |
| Stone lintel replacement | 800 | 2,500 | Material premium |
| Major opening (large window/door) | 1,200 | 3,500 | Bigger spans |
How Long Does It Take?
- Standard window lintel: 1–2 days.
- Large opening: 3–5 days.
- Heritage arch repair: 2–4 days inc. curing.
DIY or Professional?
Specialist work — structural significance and the brickwork above needs careful support during replacement. Hire a structural builder or bricklayer.
Choosing the Right Tradesperson
- Discuss propping (temporary support) of brickwork above.
- Match new lintel to original style if visible.
- Building Regs notification if structural element.
- Insurance for structural work.
UK Regulations
- Building Regs apply to lintel replacement.
- Approved Document A (structure).
- Listed properties: must match original detail.
Common Problems
- Rusted steel lintel — common in 1960s–80s construction. Replace.
- Inadequate end bearings — lintel slides; brickwork settles.
- Wrong lintel type — internal vs external use, fire rating.
- Propping failure — brickwork above collapses during work.
- Hidden damage discovered — what looked like a lintel issue may be wider structural problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which lintel I have?
Inspect above the window. Steel: thin metal strip visible inside reveal. Concrete: chunky horizontal slab. Brick: brick courses arched or in soldier course.
Can a brick arch lintel fail?
Yes — if foundations settle or mortar deteriorates. Repair more complex than steel replacement.
How long does a steel lintel last?
50–100 years if galvanised. Older un-galvanised can rust within 30 years.
Do I need Building Regs approval?
For structural lintel replacement, yes. Building Notice or Full Plans.
What's the warning sign of lintel failure?
Cracks above window/door, especially stepped cracks running away from corners.
Will my insurance cover lintel replacement?
Storm damage may be. Gradual wear typically not. Check policy.
This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.
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