Brick homes throughout Pittsburgh are known for their durability, character, and timeless appearance. Many of these homes have stood strong for decades, some even more than a century. However, one often overlooked structural component plays a critical role in keeping those brick walls intact: The Lintel.
When lintels become rusted or damaged, they can compromise the structural integrity of your masonry and lead to costly repairs if not addressed in time. Understanding their importance and choosing the right contractor to replace them is essential for protecting your home.
What Is a Lintel?
A lintel is a horizontal structural support placed above openings like:
- Windows
- Doors
- Garage openings
In brick construction, lintels are typically made of steel angles that support the weight of the brick above the opening. They carry the load and distribute it safely to the surrounding masonry.
Without a properly functioning lintel, the brickwork above windows and doors has nothing to support it.
Why Lintels Fail
Steel lintels are strong, but over time they can deteriorate, especially in climates like Western Pennsylvania.
In areas such as Pittsburgh, lintel failure is commonly caused by:
Rust and Corrosion
Moisture can penetrate mortar joints and reach the steel lintel. Over time, the steel begins to rust. As rust forms, it expands, pushing outward against the surrounding brick.
Freeze-Thaw Cycles
Pittsburgh’s winter conditions cause water to freeze and expand inside masonry joints. This accelerates deterioration and rust formation.
Improper Flashing or Waterproofing
If flashing above windows and doors is missing or incorrectly installed, water infiltration becomes much more likely.
Warning Signs of a Failing Lintel
Homeowners should watch for several common indicators that lintels may need attention:
- Cracked bricks above windows or doors
- Stair-step cracking in masonry
- Brick separation or bulging above openings
- Rust stains on the brick surface
- Visible sagging of brickwork
These signs often mean the lintel is expanding from rust and pushing the brick outward. If ignored, sections of the wall can become unstable.
Why Lintel Replacement Matters
Replacing a damaged lintel does more than improve the appearance of your home, it protects its structure.
Proper lintel replacement helps:
- Restore structural support to brick walls
- Prevent brick displacement or collapse
- Stop water infiltration around openings
- Preserve the integrity of your masonry
In many cases, replacing a rusted lintel early can prevent the need for major masonry reconstruction later.
Why Pittsburgh Homeowners Trust Prescott Roofing & Masonry
Replacing lintels is not a simple repair. It requires careful structural support, brick removal, steel replacement, and expert masonry restoration.
Prescott Roofing & Masonry has extensive experience working with the types of brick homes commonly found throughout Pittsburgh. Their team understands the structural considerations required to safely replace lintels while preserving the surrounding masonry.
Homeowners choose Prescott Roofing & Masonry because they provide:
- Proper structural support during lintel replacement
- High-quality corrosion-resistant steel lintels
- Expert brick removal and restoration
- Mortar matching for a seamless appearance
- Clean, professional job sites
Most importantly, they focus on long-term solutions that protect your home for decades.
Protect Your Brick Home Before the Damage Spreads
Rusting lintels are a common issue in older brick homes, but they are also highly repairable when addressed by experienced professionals.
If you’re seeing cracks above your windows or doors, or suspect rusted steel behind the brick, it may be time for a professional inspection.
By replacing damaged lintels early, homeowners in Pittsburgh can prevent serious structural problems and maintain the beauty and stability of their brick homes.
With Prescott Roofing & Masonry, you’re choosing a contractor who understands Pittsburgh construction, values quality craftsmanship, and is committed to protecting your home the right way.