Bridges are an essential part of transportation infrastructure, allowing people and goods to move over obstacles like bodies of water, valleys, and roads. Among the various types of bridges, steel girder bridges are a common and important option. In this article, we'll explore the basics of steel girder bridges.

What are Steel Girder Bridges?

A steel girder bridge is a type of bridge that uses steel girders as the primary support structure. Girders are horizontal beams that span between two abutments or piers, carrying the weight of the bridge deck, which is the roadway or pedestrian path that sits on top of the girders.

Steel girder bridges are known for their strength and durability, which makes them an ideal choice for heavily trafficked roads and areas with high seismic activity. They can be built in a variety of configurations, including straight, curved, and skewed alignments, and are often used for long spans that require a relatively shallow depth.

Components of Steel Girder Bridges

A typical steel girder bridge is composed of several key components:

• Girders: Horizontal beams that span between two abutments or piers, carrying the weight of the bridge deck.
• Deck: The roadway or pedestrian path that sits on top of the girders.
• Abutments and Piers: The supports that hold up the bridge deck and transfer the weight of the bridge to the ground.
• Bearings: Devices that allow for the movement of the bridge deck due to thermal expansion and contraction, wind, and seismic activity.
• Expansion Joints: Devices that allow for the movement of the bridge deck and prevent damage to the structure due to thermal expansion and contraction.
• Drainage System: A system of gutters and downspouts that collect and carry away rainwater and prevent damage to the bridge deck and supports.
• Access Points: Stairways, ramps, or elevators that allow pedestrians and vehicles to access the bridge deck.
• Lighting: Lights that illuminate the bridge deck and improve visibility for drivers and pedestrians at night.
• Guardrails: Barriers that prevent vehicles and pedestrians from falling off the sides of the bridge.

Types of Steel Girder Bridges

There are several types of steel girder bridges, including:

• Plate Girder Bridges: These bridges are made up of steel plates that are welded or bolted together to form girders. They are commonly used for shorter spans and have a lower profile than other types of steel girder bridges.
• Box Girder Bridges: These bridges are made up of a hollow steel box that forms the girder. They are commonly used for longer spans and are more resistant to torsional forces than other types of steel girder bridges.
• Truss Girder Bridges: These bridges use a series of interconnected triangles to form the girder. They are commonly used for longer spans and can be more economical than other types of steel girder bridges.
• I-Girder Bridges: These bridges have a girder in the shape of an "I," with flanges on the top and bottom connected by a web in the middle. They are commonly used for shorter spans and are easy to fabricate and install.

Example of a Steel Girder Bridge: The Golden Gate Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge is an iconic suspension bridge located in San Francisco, California. It spans the Golden Gate Strait, a mile-wide channel that connects the San Francisco Bay to the Pacific Ocean. The bridge opened in 1937 and is considered one of the engineering wonders of the world.

The main span of the Golden Gate Bridge is 1,280 meters long, making it one of the longest suspension bridges in the world. The bridge towers are made of steel and are 227 meters tall. The bridge deck is made of steel girders that support the roadway, which is 67 meters above the water at high tide.

The Golden Gate Bridge was built during a time when steel was the primary material used for large-scale construction projects. Its design, which includes two main cables that suspend the bridge deck from the towers, allows the bridge to withstand high winds and seismic activity.

The Golden Gate Bridge is an excellent example of the strength and durability of steel girder bridges. Despite being almost 90 years old, the bridge remains an important part of the transportation infrastructure of the San Francisco Bay Area and a beloved symbol of American engineering.

Conclusion

Steel girder bridges are a vital component of transportation infrastructure, offering strength, durability, and flexibility for a variety of projects. They come in several different types, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. While they can be more costly than other types of bridges, their long lifespan and low maintenance needs make them a cost-effective choice over time. Engineers and designers continue to innovate in the use of steel girder bridges, creating new solutions for transportation challenges around the world.

Stairs are a very essential part of multistory buildings. It can be defined as a series set of steps used for climbing one floor to another of a building. A staircase is suitable for walking up a small vertical distance. There are many types of stairs used in buildings and structures.

To study on staircase one must recognize its components. There are various components or parts of a staircase that have their own functions. Staircases may be in all shapes and arrangements to suit different properties but the main parts that go up to make any staircases are fairly common. In this article, all modern stair parts are discussed also.

Following are the various components of a staircase:

1. Step (Tread and Riser)
2. Nosing
3. Bullnose
4. String
5. Winders
6. Balustrade
7. Handrail
8. Newel
9. Volute
10. Baluster
11. Turnout
12. Gooseneck
13. Rosette
14. Easing
15. Trim
16. Finial
17. Fillet
18. Flutes

Step

A step is composed of two parts.

1. Tread
2. Riser

Brief details of these two parts of the steps are discussed below.

Nosing

Nosing is the horizontal, protruding edge of a stair where most foot traffic occurs. Mostly, it is the half-rounded molding fixed to the ends of the threads exposed in half which covers where the balusters fit into the treads. Nosing is the edge of the tread projecting beyond the face of the riser and the face of a cut string. This is where the thread above a riser overhangs it. In some cases, tread might not have a nosing

Nosing Material

These stair parts can be manufactured from a variety of materials including Aluminum, vinyl, and wood.

Usage of Nosing

• Stair nosing is being used at staircases for different purposes where safety is the number one.
• It is a safe way to finish your wood and protects our stair edging from breaking or getting damaged in general.
• Stair nosing helps to improve the visibility of wooden stair edges.

Bullnose

It is known as Starting footstep. When stairs are unbolted on one or both sides, the initial step above the lower floor may be wilder than the other steps and rounded. A double bullnose refers to a staircase that is not against a wall and therefore there is a bullnose at both ends of the starting step.

Usage of Bullnose

• It allows the balusters to form a wider, more solid base for the end of the handrail.
• This is where the bottom step protrudes beyond the newel post.

String

It is also known as a stringer or stringer board. There are structural supports that run along either side of the staircase, though the treads may be supported in many other ways. The stringers are sometimes notched so that the risers and treads fit into them.

String Shape and Size

There are several notable types of string (The stringer is usually 220mm wide and 32mm thick. The length will depend on the rise and go).

Usage of String

• Stringer on open-sided stairs often opens themselves so that the treads are visible from the side. Such stringers are called cut stringers. 
• Stringers on a closed slide of the stairs are closed. The closed string extends above and below the level of the treads and risers; above the pitch line. This is only done on the outside of the staircase as there is no need for the staircase to run and the string is along a wall.

https://civiltoday.com/construction/building/139-stair-staircase-parts-components

Winders 

Winders are the steps that are narrower on one side than the other. A series of winders form a circular or spiral stairway. Stairway winders or turns involve triangular treads to complete the turn. When three steps are used to turn a 90-degree corner, the middle step is called a kite winder as a kite double winder. The Toronto Home inspection shows that only one set of winders should be allowed in a staircase and the dimensions should be tripping hazards.

Winder Shape and Size

Winders must be in a room with the proper definition. You cannot create winders in an area composed of only 2 corner walls. If this configuration is needed, enclose the area in with invisible walls so that a room area is defined.

Usage of Winders

• Basically, they are used to change direction.
• It can bail you out of the situation where there isn't enough headroom .for a standard landing.

Balustrade

The balustrade is one of the vertical components of stairs. A balustrade is a collective name for the complete assembly of handrails, base rails, newels, spindles, infill, and newer caps.

Handrail: Stair Railing

The term "Handrail" is sometimes used to mean just the banister or sometimes just the balusters. A handrail is a rail that is designed to be grasped by the hand to provide stability or support. It is also known as a railing or banister. They are typically supported by posts or mounted directly to walls. There is often a railing on both sides, sometimes only on one side or not at all, on a wide staircase, there is sometimes also one in the middle or even more. The handrails up the side or sides of a stairway and, as an extension, along with the edge of a landing.

Handrail Material

The material of a handrail can be stainless steel, cast iron, or aluminum.

Usage of Handrail

• This is an angled member for handholding, as distinguished from the vertical balusters which hold it up for stairs that are open on one side 
• They are grooved out so that the spindles fit into the underside of them. 
• Using straight lengths of handrail connected to handrail fittings and ramps, the handrail flows over the tops of newel turnings creating a continuous run of a handrail
• The handrail is commonly used while ascending or descending staircases in order to prevent injuries.

Newel

The newel is a sturdy vertical post at the end of the turn of a banister. Newel is also known as a central pole or support column. Since it is a structural component, it extends below the floor and subfloor to the bottom of the floor joists and is bolted right to the floor joist. There are four kinds of newel stair posts which are- standard, landing, pin-top, and stabilizer newel posts. Visually it looks like half the newel is embedded in the wall. For open landings, a newel may be extended below the landing for a decorative newel drop.

Newel Shape and Size

Typically, they are 90mm x 90mm.

Usage of Newel

• A half-newel may be used where a railing ends in the wall.
• It is a large baluster or post used to anchor the handrail. 
• It accommodates the strings, handrails, and treads/risers of stairs and is usually seen at the head or foot of a flight of stairs.

Volute

A volute is a handrail end component for the curtail step or bullnose footsteps that curve inward like a spiral. It is said to be left or right-handed depending on which side of the handrail is as one faces up the stairs. The detail is like a scroll at the entry of a handrail, sometimes called a monkey's tail. Available with an up-ramp, it is installed at the bottom of the side on a starting step, extending out from the side of the staircase. However, it has the most difficult installation process you can find on a staircase.

Usage of Volute

• Volutes provide a gentle, graceful end for linear handrails
• add an elegant flourish to any staircase.

Baluster

The baluster is a term that holds up the handrail. It is a vertical member which posts in the space under the banister to the treads or floor( on the side of a landing). Sometimes. it is simply called a guard or spindle.

Baluster Material

It is made of stone or wood and sometimes of metal which can be plain or decorative.

Baluster Shape and Size

Treads often require two balusters. The second baluster is closer to the riser and is taller than the first. The extra height in the second baluster is typically in middle between decoration elements on the baluster. That way the bottom decorative components are aligned with the tread and the crown elements are aligned with the tread and the top elements are aligned with the railing angle.

Turnout 

Instead of a complete spiral volute, a turnout is a quarter-turn rounded end to the handrail. It is a stylish way to start a stairway. They are less dramatic than volutes but still attractive. Turnout is of two types- left and right-hand turnout. If you are facing the bottom of the stairway, a right turnout would be on the right side of the stairway and a left turnout would be on the left side. A turnout must have a pin-top Newel post below.

Turnout Material

It is available in a variety of woods like hard maple, hickory, alder, red oak, poplar, American cherry, etc. It is made of clear wood with no knots or blemishes.

Usage of Turnout

• Turnout is used to finish off the bottom of the stair railing system.
• It can be used on a straight or curved stair.
• It allows a continuous flow of handrails. 
• It gives a perfect accent to your starter step.
• It is also easy to install.

Gooseneck

A gooseneck is a vertical handrail that joins a sloped handrail to a higher handrail on the balcony or landing. It is the part of the stair hand railing. Gooseneck= Vertical turn + Up-ramp. Goosenecks come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Don't purchase a gooseneck that doesn't match your handrail.

Usage of Gooseneck

• They are often used for changing directions on a stairway handrail at a landing or floor
• In order to meet local building codes, you will find a set of winder stairs with a long gooseneck to make the transition between the small steps.

Rosette

Where the handrail terminates in the wall and a half-newel is not used, it may be trimmed by a rosette. It is an optional decorative wood stair part. While they are more of an ornamental feature, the process of attaching a handrail to a wall is made easier by using them. If your balustrade is a traditional style, then rosettes will add an additional piece of elegant detail. However, if you prefer a cleaner more contemporary, you should probably consider not adding a rosette.

Rosette Material 

Rosettes are made of woods like red oak, white oak, walnut, pine, beech, etc.

Usage of Rosette

• It is used as a decorative transition accent between handrails and walls.

Easing 

The word easing refers to any type of hand railing change in direction. Wall handrails are mounted directly onto the wall with wall brackets. At the bottom of the stairs, such railings flare to a horizontal railing, and the horizontal portion is called a starting rising. At the top of the stairs, the horizontal portion of the railing is called - easing. Up easing is an element of a handrail that allows changing the direction of a handrail from angular to vertical.

Trim 

Stair trim not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your staircase but also helps to cover any gaps or uneven edges between the stair treads and risers. Typically, trim is applied at the meeting point of walls and the ground, and is often used where the tread and riser meet. For a neater finish, shoe molding can be used where the lower floor and the first riser meet. However, trimming the starting step can be a bit tricky as the last riser above the lower floor is usually rounded. With the right tools and techniques, the challenge of trimming the starting step can be easily overcome, resulting in a beautiful and seamless finish.

Finial

A stair finial is a decorative cap that sits atop a newel post, serving as the final touch to the end of a balustrade. While it is primarily used for its ornamental value, it also helps to anchor the balustrade, providing stability and support. Stair finials come in a variety of shapes and sizes, ranging from simple and understated to intricate and detailed. They can be made from a range of materials, including wood, metal, and glass, and can be painted, stained, or left natural depending on the desired look. Adding a finial to a staircase can elevate the overall design, creating a polished and sophisticated look.

Fillet 

A stair fillet is a decorative element that is installed between the balusters of a staircase railing. It is usually made of wood and is designed to fill the gaps between the balusters to give a neat and finished look to the staircase. Fillets can be plain or decorative, depending on the design of the staircase. They are often used in traditional or classical stair designs and can be stained or painted to match the color of the balusters and other staircase components. The use of fillets in staircase design not only adds aesthetic value to the staircase but also serves a practical purpose by ensuring safety and preventing small objects from falling through the gaps in the railing.

Flutes

Stair flutes are decorative grooves that are typically found on the face of a stair's balusters. They can be used to add an extra touch of style to a staircase and are often used in more traditional or ornate designs. The flutes are typically evenly spaced along the baluster and can add depth and texture to the overall appearance of the staircase. They can also serve a practical purpose by providing extra grip for those using the stairs, especially if the stairs are made of a slippery material such as polished wood or marble. Stair flutes are a versatile design element that can be incorporated into a wide range of staircase styles to add an extra layer of visual interest. 

FAQ

1. What is the curtail step?

The answer is: A curtail step, also known as a starting step, is a decorative element that is often used at the bottom of a staircase. It is typically larger and more ornate than the other steps, and it provides a smooth transition from the bottom of the stairs to the floor. The curtail step is typically wider and deeper than the other steps and may have a curved or angled shape. It is often used as a design element in grand staircases and can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and stone.

2. What is a stairwell? define stairwell.

Definition: A stairwell is a vertical shaft or opening in a building that contains a staircase. It is a structural element of a building that is designed to provide a means of vertical circulation between floors or levels. Stairwells are usually enclosed spaces that are separated from other areas of the building by fire-resistant walls and doors, and they are designed to provide a safe means of escape in case of a fire or other emergency. In addition to their functional role, stairwells can also be designed to enhance the aesthetics of a building and provide a sense of grandeur or drama.

3. What is the handle on the stairs called?

The answer is: The handle on stairs is typically called a handrail. It is a rail that is designed to be grasped by the hand to provide support and stability while ascending or descending a staircase. The handrail is usually installed along one or both sides of a staircase and may be made of a variety of materials, including wood, metal, or plastic.

4. What is the bottom of the stairs called? 

The answer is: The bottom of the stairs is typically referred to as the "stair landing" or simply "landing." It is a flat area at the base of the stairs that provides a transition between the stairs and the floor. The landing can be either a platform or a series of steps that allow for a safe and convenient way to move from the stairs to the floor. The landing also serves as a safety feature, providing a space for someone to stand and regain their balance before continuing down the stairs or moving to another area.

5. Panels on a staircase are usually referred to by what name?

The answer is: Panels on a staircase are typically referred to as balusters or spindles. They are the vertical posts that support the handrail of the staircase.

What is a Door?

The door is a moving mechanism which is more like a barrier made of wood, stone, metal, glass, paper, leaves, hides, or a combination of materials. A door understands the importance of having options when it comes to choosing the right fit for the architecture of our home and interior and exterior decor from the curb through the foyer. Trendy to timeless, understated to elaborate, the door provides a warm welcome. There is a sharp contrast between interior and exterior door. A door has an aesthetic purpose in creating an impression of what lies beyond.

Types of Doors

There are many kinds of doors with different purposes. Doors are largely defined by the materials they are made from. Also, door classification varies due to the mechanism and usage. Followings are the classifications of doors:

1. Considering Material Used
   1. Wooden Door
   2. Metal Door
   3. UPVC Door
2. Considering the Mechanism & Usage
   1. Sliding Door
   2. Composite Door
   3. Swinging Door
   4. Revolving Door
   5. Folding Door

Types of Door Based on the Material Used

Doors can be classified based on the materials used for making doors. The most used materials for the door are-

• Wood
• Metal
• UPVC

Wooden Door

The wooden door is the top choice for the homeowners. It is a premium choice for your home interior and exterior with a rich sense of character and beauty on its own. Many antique doors were made of wood. A wooden door can be custom made which has decorative yet functional design options. Most of the wooden doors open in a swinging system; also it is stained rather than painted because stain is a marketable choice allowing you to show the wood's natural grain.

Advantages of Wooden Doors

Wooden door has lots of appeal and benefits given below :

• Wood is a material that is easy to work.
• Solid wooden panel PVC glass door is eco-friendly, soundproof, waterproof (suitable for coastal areas).
• We can use it as a security door, entry door or a revolving door.
• A wooden door has simple installation, smooth surface, master sculpture, and durability.

Disadvantages of Wooden Doors

However, the wooden door has some disadvantages too. These are :

• It needs care and maintenance to keep performing at its peak.
• A wooden door should be sealed before installation, otherwise, it might absorb moisture.
• Because of its heavy material, a wooden door may sag over time. Thus, it needs to update its hardware and frame.

{adselite}

Metal Door

As the name suggests, metal door is made of metal. It has a prolonged functional life with high dimensional accuracy and eminent corrosion resistance. It functions as a way to bolt the entrance to a formation and seal the components out. It's more like a barricade type which can withstand storm and earthquake. A metal door can be made with glass kit, louver, fire, storefront.

Advantages of Metal Doors

Metal door provides the following benefits -

• This door is effortless to handle.
• It can only be placed on a door frame with durability and easy installation.
• Having windstorm resistant component, it can be as aristocratic as a wooden door.
• The metal door comes in various forms. Fire rated metal door is a great way to include extra light in a room, providing additional security.
• Sheet metal door is a hinged door made of metal fragments with a lock and a lock code.
• It is sturdy with various designs and patterns, also chemical resistant.
• Real wood texture effects are the reason behind the success of a metal door.
• Using paints, we can keep it for a long time.
• As the price is not high, all classes of people can afford it. 

Disadvantages of Metal Doors

The disadvantages of a metal door are -

• It has a rusting problem.
• It cannot give an architectural view.
• This might be heavy in weight.

UPVC Door

UPVC door is a replacement for a wooden door. It is made of a fully recyclable material, in keeping with our green living either like plastic, glass or bamboo. It has various types e.g. gold, solid or platinum. Double glazed UPVC door is in high demand nowadays. It is mainly used in the interior, bathroom, and garden.

Advantages of UPVC Doors

The UPVC door has many pros and fewer cons. Pros are-

• It keeps a home safe and secure by multipoint locking.
• Guarantees never to warp, rot or discolor.
• The UPVC door looks good because of its different color and sizes.
• It is durable and water resistant.
• Strong and affordable at the same time.
• You can make it energy efficient by upgrading thermally.
• It is long lasting and maintenance free.
• The central pane U-value is quite low.
• It is made of lightweight material. 

Disadvantages of UPVC Doors

Nevertheless, there is only one con which is -

• It is not suitable for front door due to its lightweight.

Different Types of Doors Based on the Mechanism & Usage

Doors are of various kinds. Only a few are famous because of their mechanism and usage. They are-

• Sliding Door
• Composite Door
• Swinging Door
• Revolving Door
• Folding Door

Sliding Door

A sliding door is an elegant aesthetic to any home or places providing euphony. Sliding door opens crosswise by sliding which is parallel to the wall.It has a horizontal mechanism. Slide door is also known as"Patio Door".It is commonly used as shower door, glass door, screen door or in vans. It permits people to both enter and leaves. It is usually considered a single unit which consists two-panel sections. A sliding door is usually made of wood, aluminum, stainless steel but it appears in its best form when it is made from UPVC plastic glass. A sliding door offers different design possibilities. We can see the usage of sliding doors in the airport terminal or in a hotel room.

Advantages of Sliding Doors

Sliding Door has many advantages providing-

• The best feature is you don't need any extra room to open the door.
• It makes a room soundproof, thus it can be used for a private space.
• It has a security mechanism which can be used for office entrance, elevators, patios door or even a room divider.
• A Sliding door made of glass enhances natural light in.
• It has efficient insulators which ensure the perfect temperature in the room.

Disadvantages of Sliding Doors

Also, there are few disadvantages of sliding doors-

• The installation is not a cakewalk.
• The trail of a sliding door is a magnet for dirt and sludge.
• It can become a fingerprint magnet.

Composite Door

A composite door is a new invention which is depicted with the modernistic door technology. Lately, it has become the alternative to wooden, steel or UPVC door. It's not made from a single substance. Instead, it is made using a combination of material like PVC, wood, muffled foam and glass reinforced plastic (GRP). In most cases, it is made from fiberglass.

Advantages of Composite Doors

A composite door is prominent for its special features-

• It has a stainless steel hardware which is exclusive to the buyer's market.
• Xtreme door is the most wanted composite door which has 12 different methodologies, 13 standard colors, over 100 decorative glass design on 15 Pilkington glass pattern.
• Security is one of the main reason for buying a composite door.
• The um locker is perfect for coastal locations.
• Types of a composite door which have PVC-u thermal, slots for additional energy saving. In another way, it is up to six times more energy productive than a standard door by making an essential part to keep the room thermal. 

Disadvantages of Composite Doors

In spite of having so many advantages, Composite Door has some problems too which regard the following-

• Tend to be more expensive than the other doors.
• Although they mimic wood, they still not boast of the natural wood texture.

Swinging Door

The swinging door is a simplified and easy technique. It is mainly a swinging hurdle that will close the entrance to a room or building or vehicle. Swinging on a double hinge. it opens in either direction as automated. Sometimes it can swing open in both directions. Mostly, a swinging door is made of steel, metal, aluminum or solid MDF glass. It is especially important to get the hand and swing correctly as the transom is usually sloped and sealed. Specifying an incorrect hand or swing can cause the door to the blind. It can be reversed or a normal swing. Nowadays, automatic swinging doors are much in demand.

Advantages of Swinging Doors

Advantages of swinging doors are followings

• People use swinging doors in laundry, saloon or kitchen
• It is convenient
• gives a good impression.
• it's a great way to create privacy
• It saves energy than the other doors, in other ways, it is energy efficient
• Such door swings closed by itself

 Disadvantages of Swinging Doors

Swinging doors have some disadvantages too.

• If the door opens inward and there is an accident inside, there can be a crush of people.

Revolving Door

Newer revolving doors are the visual focus of an entrance. A revolving door consists of three or four stiff upright sections hanging on a mid shaft and rotates around a vertical axis. It allows a large number of people to pass in and out only by a gentle push. A revolving door is called "Door without Draft or Air" because it averts drafts and air pressure. As a result, it is energy efficient by saving 30% of energy cost. The very first revolving door was installed in a restaurant. Mostly, it is used in sports stadium, theme park or airport for bypass security.

The revolving door has some pros and cons.

Advantages of Revolving Doors

• As it is designed for one-way traffic, it can be used as a security device to restrict entry to a certain person.
• Revolving door maintains a comfortable indoor climate by keeping out street noise and fumes.
• It is a component of the facade.
• This door functions reliably and safely despite high frequencies of a mechanism. 

Disadvantages of Revolving Doors

• Sometimes it is heavy to push or its components are claustrophobically narrow
• There's also anxiety about getting stuck in a component with another person

Folding Door

Folding door ajars by folding back in sections. It is also known as "Bi-fold Door". Most of them are made of either wood, bamboo, aluminum or PVC. A folding door can be as good as the utility door. It provides fascinating design options such as freely moving, cabinet-hugging or guided systems. Nearly all time, the position of a folding door is exterior. From residences to restaurants and commercial projects, it has created an overwhelming call; can be used as a room divider too. If properly maintained, this door will perform for years to come.

Advantages of Folding Doors

• Being reliable, the folding door allows for dream living space to be created.
• It has patented sealing technology which makes the door waterproof and protects the interior.
• You can also add fingerprint option for security.
• It opens with just a flick of the wrist.
• The most interesting part is you can go in and out without opening the whole door.
• It can create the illusion of a larger house and opens spaces up to 90%. 

Disadvantages of Folding Doors

• A folding door has difficult installation and reflects way too sunlight into your home.
• Because of its being pricy, it is considered as a luxury. Though it's worth it as it tends to give any space a contemporary, elegant appearance.

Types of Doors, Types of Door, What is a Door, door classification, kind of doors, kind of door, kinds of doors, front doors, exterior doors , entry doors, steel doors, wooden front doors, entrance doors, doors, metal door, swinging doors, composite doors, upvc front doors, new windows and doors, steel home entry doors, double door entry doors for homes, windows and doors, front house doors with glass, glass front entrance doors, new entry door, insulated front entry doors

A lintel is a common part of buildings. Whenever we want to create an opening like doors & windows in the building, we use lintels above windows, doors like openings as a simple solution to support the weight above the opening.

Although lintel construction is simple and it is very commonly used, we are here to define lintel theoretically. Furthermore, we have presented 6 types of lintel beams here in this article and discussed them briefly to give you an idea. Why does this matter? It will help you to select the best kind of lintel for your lintels construction work and enable you to answer what are lintels. 

What is Lintel? Lintel Definition

A lintel is one type of beam which is provided to support the above wall or partition material when openings like doors, windows, and so forth are necessary to provide a building structure.

Following is the lintels definition by Merriam-Webster to understand lintel meaning.

A flat horizontal beam that spans the space between two supports.

The lintel is an American word. In British English, it is called lintol. So don't be confused. Lintel and lintol both are the same words.

A lintel beam is a horizontal secondary structural element. It is mostly used above the openings on windows, doors, portals, fireplaces, etc. {adselite}

Lintel Construction Material

For lintel construction, different building materials can be used. Some lintel beam materials are listed below

• Reinforced cement concrete (RCC)
• Stone 
• Wood/timber 
• Bamboo 
• Steel 

What is a Lintel Used for? Uses or Functions of Lintels

The followings are the uses of lintel:

• The primary function of the lintel is to take loads originating from the wall directly above the opening and transfer them to the side walls or stone pillar support.
• Lintel also acts as a safeguard for the windows and doors.
• Continuous lintels may provide support in masonry structures against lateral loads like wind or earthquakes. 
• The chimney above the fireplaces can be supported by lintels.
• Lintel can be used as a support for the canopy members.
• It is possible to enhance the architectural beauty of a building by selecting decorative lintels. lintel architecture would be a good matter of concern here. 
• Lintels may support a small distance of a path. It could be referred to as a lintel bridge.

Properties of Lintel

The followings are the general properties of building lintel:

• The lintel beam generally ends in the masonry wall. Sometimes they are ends in the columns.
• Lintels must be supported at each end. They must be extended enough to ensure that the supporting masonry is stressed within their allowable stress. 100mm would be the minimum bearing length.
• Lintels convey the weight carried by them to the masonry walls.
• Lintel width is kept the same as the supporting wall width.
• The lintel can likewise be utilized as an enlivening compositional component.{adselite}

Lintel Beam Construction Guideline

Lintel design guidelines are specified in design codes. Before constructing a lintel one must follow the applicable codes of the country. Following are some general guidelines that may vary in different codes. It is highly recommended to follow the code applicable in your country rather than this guideline. 

• 100mm minimum bearing length should be provided. 
• A lintel span shall not exceed 3.5 m over openings.
• All concrete lintels shall be reinforced.
• The reinforcement bars of the concrete lintel beam shall extend more than 600 mm beyond the edge of the opening and into lintel supports.

Types of Lintels

While timber is as yet utilized in the development of homes, heavier materials, for example, block, concrete, and stone, can likewise be used, particularly in the event of business structures and private condo squares. Thus, the utilization of stirred steel lintels has developed increasingly well known. Depending on the cost and availability of materials, different materials are used for lintel construction. Lintel beams are classified into the following types according to the elements of their development:

1. Timber lintel
2. Stone lintel
3. Reinforced concrete lintel
4. Brick lintel
5. Reinforced brick lintel
6. Steel lintel

After seeing these six types of lintel you may ask a simple question.

Which one of these lintels should you use for your construction project?

It's you who should decide the answer. But to help you decide, a brief description of these six types of lintels is discussed below.{adselite}

Timber Lintel

Wooden or Timber Lintels are the most seasoned sorts of lintel. They are fundamentally used in hilly areas where timbers are accessible. But in open areas, uses of timber are constrained as a result of the significant expense and accessibility of present-day materials. If there should be an occurrence of more great dividers, timber lintel beam is made out of two wooden pieces avoided as much as possible with the assistance of wooden separation pieces. Sometimes, timber lintels are reinforced by the arrangement of mild steel plates at their top and base; such lintels are called flitched lintels. It has a few other disadvantages-

• It is less durable.
• Timber being combustible it is vulnerable to fire.
• These lintels tend to be structurally weak.
• Without appropriate ventilation, timber is obligated to rot.

Stone Lintel

Rectangular bits of stone can be utilized as a lintel. This type of lintel is mainly used in this area where the stone is plentifully accessible. On the off chance that the length of the opening is long, by then, in any event, two bits of timber are joined to give the lintel all things considered openings. They are merely used in mountainous buildings as they weigh too much and due to the non-availability of other materials for their construction. Its use is intrinsically bound to stone masonry structures. Stone lintels must be utilized according to an understanding of the characteristic layering. The thickness of the stone lintel is a significant factor in its design. As a thumb rule, the thickness is taken as 4 cm. Per 30cm length of span and the minimum thickness should be 8 cm. This sort of lintel beam will be firm and solid. There are a few inconveniences also of the stone lintel.

• Its high cost and secondly its inability to withstand excessive transverse stress.
• Due to their weak tensile nature, they are not used in buildings where vibratory loads are subjected to the structure.
• It is difficult to deploy them in cities as transportation is a very complex task.

Reinforced Concrete Lintel

At present, reinforced concrete lintels are very common in use. In this type, reinforcement is used to overcome the low malleable issue in concrete. They are developed in present-day structures. They are suitable for heavy loads and larger spans. Their thickness is kept around up to 8 centimeters for every meter. RCC lintels can be either precast or cast in situ. Generally, precast reinforced cement concrete lintels are used when the lintel span is smaller. Lintel width should be the same as wall width. The depth of the lintel beam depends on the length of the span and the loading's magnitude.

Concrete, though strong in compression, is fragile to tensile stress, so main reinforcement bars are used at the bottom to resist the tensile stress. Half of these bars are cranked at the ends. Shear stirrups are provided to withstand shear stress. Typically, cement, sand, and aggregates are mixed in 1:2:4 ratio to form cement concrete mortar. This lintel has a handful of advantages:

• They are durable, rigid, and strong.
• The reinforced concrete lintel has fire-resisting properties.
• They are economical and easy to construct.
• The main advantage of the RC lintels is their adaptability to suit any size and shape.

Brick Lintels

Brick lintels are constructed with hard, well burnt first-class brick. It can be formed as bricks on the end, bricks on the edge, and coursed bricks laid horizontally over openings. This type of lintel is used when the opening is small (less than 1m) with light loadings. Their depth varies from 10 cm (thickness of one brick) to 20 cm depending upon the span. Bricks with frogs filled with mortar give more shear resistance at end joints than the standard blocks.

Reinforced Brick Lintels

Heavy loadings and more substantial span lengths are the problems for brick lintels. These can be overcome by using reinforcement bars. Reinforced brick lintels thus provide more support than brick lintels. The depth of the reinforced brick lintels is equal to 10 cm. or a multiple of 10 cm (or one brick thickness). The arrangement of the bricks should be such that there is enough space lengthwise between the adjacent bricks for the insertion of mild steel bars as reinforcement. After insertion bars, the remaining gap is filled with 1:3 cement mortar. 6 mm bars are used as vertical stirrups at every 3rd vertical joint. 8 to 10 mm bars placed at the bottom are used as primary reinforcement.

Steel Lintels

A steel lintel beam can be suitable when the superimposed loads are heavy, and the opening gaps are significant. Steel lintels are preferable when the depth of lintel plays an essential role because the designer cannot ignore the depth of reinforced concrete lintels due to heavy loads. These lintels consist of channel sections or rolled steel joists or channel sections either used singly or in the combination of two or three units. Depending upon the requirements, the lintel can be a single section or a combination of two or more. A single steel joist is either embedded in concrete or cladded with stone facing to keep the same width as the wall. A combination of two or more units is placed side by side and held in position by a tube separator. Relieving with water is accomplished in any event for ten days. It has many advantages:

• Steel lintels can be utilized to help heavier loads over more prominent separations without the need to change or strengthen.
• They are impervious to rust, erosion, or distortion.
• Steel lintels are more practical and less labor-intensive.

FAQs

What is the difference between lintel and beam?

Lintel and beam are both horizontal building members. A member is identified between these two names based on its function.

lintel supports only the weight of the wall above the openings and it transfers the load to walls only.

Whereas beams carry the dead and live load from the slab. These loads are then transferred to the supporting columns. Also beams act as diaphragm elements.

What is meant by door lintel? What is a door lintel?

A horizontal beam that is positioned across a door opening to bear the load of the structure above it is designated a door lintel.

Do you need a lintel above a window?

If brick walls or other heavy nonstructural members exist between the window and the structural beam above, a lintel is mandatory above a window. This window lintel will distribute the loads to the masonry wall beside the window. Window lintels can also secure the window frame from damage. 

What is a window lintel?

The horizontal structural member constructed above the window to support the brick wall above is called a window lintel. 

When Do you need a garage door lintel replacement?

Garage door lintel replacement is not typically recommended unless the door itself is severely damaged. If the garage door is only slightly bent or has a small hole, then a new lintel may be all that is needed. If the garage door is severely damaged, a new door may be the only solution.