Moving a Window

[MarkWoody]

We need to move an upstairs window by approx 600mm to make room for a new loft staircase. Currently there is a wooden lintel in place above the window which will need replacing.

The loft extenstion has a large beam directly above the new window position with a loading of 8KN on the wall (although not loaded yet as conversion not complete).

What type of lintel should I consider for this job - concrete, box steel or even a short length of UB? What are the relative strengths of these?

Note: The window is only 820mm wide and the walls are 9" solid (no cavity).

Thanks for any help.
Mark

 

[lostinfens]

I'd go for a 9" "catnic" that's a generic term -there's various types to choose from just go to your local merchants & have a word.

 

[r896neo]

i would imagine the SE who specified the 'large beam' will probably help as if it bears above this wndow his calcs will no doubt be affected..

 

[lostinfens]

Errmm- missed the point about the "beam"
It's difficult to envisage the position of the beam & window, also the relationship with the external structure, ie brickwork, rendering etc.

If there is external brickwork showing above, then a catnic type lintol has to be preferred. If however the window is tight to the eaves- and it's hard to imagine that it is- then your beam will do the trick.

 

[MarkWoody]

Thanks everyone for there input.

We decided to put a new heavy duty steel box lintel above the window just to be on the safe side.

Probably a bit overkill but at last we know it's safe.

Mark

 

[WabbitPoo]

OOI, what did you mean "we" decided? Did you consult an expert on this?

 

[MarkWoody]

WE refers to the wife -

Arn't they experts in everything ?????

Thanks everybody...