Do I need a Lintel??

[aja1976]

My builder has knocked a doorway from the side of the house into a new garage hes built. I noticed there was no lintel above the new doorway and he said it doesn't need one as the wooden frame acts as one (the wooden door surround etc).

This doesn't sound correct to me but Im not a builder. Can anyone confirm?

 

[terrypin]

Was the wall an external wall or is it load baring?
If so he's talking ******, it needs a lintel.

 

[aja1976]

It is the external wall. Is this very dodgy? How can I convince him he's talking rubbish? Obviously I want it done right before he disappears

 

[terrypin]

There's too much weight for there not to be a lintel.

Was there nothing in the plans/regs stating the use of a lintel? If there was/is point this out or talk to building control/inspector.

 

[aja1976]

There was no plans. He said it doesn't need planning permission.

Can I still get buildings regs out to inspect his work?

 

[terrypin]

Can you supply some photos or more info on what you've had done?

 

[aja1976]

I'll add some pictures when I get home. He's knocked the old detached garage down and built a new smaller one on the side of the house. He's knocked a doorway through from the hall to the new garage.

 

[terrypin]

I would have thought building regs approval would be needed.

 

[EFLImpudence]

Is there another floor above? - not a bungalow.

 

[aja1976]

Yes there's a floor above

 

[terrypin]

Lintel needed, absolutely no question about it, do not accept any BS from your builder.

 

[EFLImpudence]

The door frame may only be on some shims at the bottom and

you may want/have to replace it.

 

[tony1851]

As well as the poor structural support which a door frame would give, there is also the fire issue to consider;
any structural element (such as a beam and posts) is required to have 30 minutes fire resistance.

 

[aja1976]

Does anyone know a good builder in the Stockport area? I want to get someone out to finish the job properly

 

[terrypin]

Alexander Builders
Cheadle Hulme
Or
Look up Paul Stansfield on Facebook, can't remember the company name but he's very good.(Cheadle Hulme)
Or
Dave Lewis(Action Builders, Offerton)
http://www.actionbuildingroofing.co.uk