To LINTEL or not to LINTEL that is the question? Newbie Forum Discuss To LINTEL or not to LINTEL that is the question? in the Good Background Information forums; I am at a point in my build where I need to decide this (before this weekend). I've seen pictures ...

[pzachef]

I am at a point in my build where I need to decide this (before this weekend). I've seen pictures on this site and others where lintels are not used. What is the concensus out there?
I attached two such photo's, I don't remember if it was from this site or not..

[splatgirl]

it doesn't matter. If it's going to be covered up with whatever exterior finish you use, make things a little easier for yourself and use one. if that area will always be exposed, then I'd opt for not using one since it looks nicer. And if not using one scares you, there's no reason you couldn't place one piece at the inside edge of the block opening so that it's not visible from the outer, front edge of the slab.

[dmun]

Yes, it's a design choice. If it's made of concrete blocks, it really isn't much stronger then the angle iron that holds it up. Besides, the couple of pieces of extra rebar are cheaper than two pieces of angle iron anyway.

[pzachef]

I forgot to mention I will be cantalevering a 12 inch landing over the front.
Thanks for the feedback, please keep it comming. Where the photo above stops the slab at the end of the vent landing, I will extend out 12 inches on the angled front.

[pzachef]

It's done, I poured my top slab without a lintel.