Wade stocks lintels in large numbers, ready for immediate dispatch to your home or project anywhere in the UK. We provide steel lintels from manufacturers such as Catnic, Stressline, and Birtley, as well as concrete lintels (and padstones) from Naylor.
A lintel is a structural support installed above doors, windows and other openings to carry the load of masonry, floors or roof structures above. In UK construction, lintels are most commonly manufactured from galvanised steel or precast concrete and are selected based on span, wall type and loading requirements.
Choosing the correct lintel is critical for structural stability and compliance with Part A of the Building Regulations. Factors such as cavity width, bearing length, insulation requirements and imposed loads all influence the specification.
Types of Lintels Available
We supply lintels for virtually every common UK wall construction, including:
Cavity wall lintels for standard masonry cavities
Solid wall and box lintels for single leaf construction
Timber frame lintels designed for modern timber structures
Thermally broken lintels to reduce cold bridging
Concrete lintels and padstones for traditional builds
Stock includes leading UK manufacturers such as Catnic, Stressline, Birtley and Naylor, with sizes available for small domestic openings through to wider structural spans.
Choosing the Correct Lintel
Selecting the right lintel depends on more than just span. Wall construction, load path, floor loads above, and required bearing lengths must all be considered. As a general rule, lintels require a minimum end bearing (commonly 150mm, though manufacturer guidance should always be followed).
If you are unsure which lintel is suitable for your project, our detailed installation guides and span resources can help, or you can contact our team for practical advice before ordering.
Installation & Compliance
Correct installation is essential to ensure structural performance. Lintels must be installed level, fully bedded on suitable mortar, and supported with the correct bearing and padstones where required. Weep vents and cavity trays may also be necessary depending on wall design.
The correct lintel size depends on the clear opening width, wall type and the load above. Most manufacturers require a minimum 150mm bearing at each end, meaning the lintel must be longer than the opening itself. Always refer to manufacturer span tables or seek advice before ordering.
Are steel lintels better than concrete lintels?
Steel lintels are generally lighter, easier to handle and available in longer spans, making them popular for cavity wall construction. Concrete lintels are typically used for solid walls or smaller openings. The correct choice depends on structural requirements and wall design.
Do lintels require padstones?
Padstones may be required where high loads are present to spread the load safely into the supporting masonry. Structural drawings or Building Control guidance should be followed where applicable.
How much bearing does a lintel need?
Most UK lintel manufacturers recommend a minimum of 150mm end bearing on each side, although this can vary depending on span and load. Always check the specific product installation guidance.
Do I need Building Control approval to replace a lintel?
Replacing a structural lintel often falls under Part A of the Building Regulations. In many cases, Building Control notification or approval may be required, particularly if structural loads are being altered.
At Wade Building Services, we specialise in providing comprehensive onsite solutions tailored to your unique needs. Whether you require top-quality lintels, reliable tempers, or robust fencing and barriers, we have you covered. Our dedication to excellence ensures that every project we undertake is executed with precision and professionalism, guaranteeing results that exceed expectations.
What sets us apart is not just our extensive industry knowledge but also our unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction. We understand the intricacies of construction, and our team of experts is committed to delivering solutions that are not only reliable but also cost-effective.
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IN HOUSE TECHNICAL DEPARTMENT
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From panels to posts, our fencing specialists know the trade inside out. Whatever the scale of your job, we’ll make sure you get the right materials when you need them.
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