Insert Window Lintel without taking out Soldier Course...

[RichA]

We will be removing windows, and replacing 3x lintels in a cavity wall.

The original external leaf lintels are flat bars; these will be replaced with L-shaped Catnic lintels.

Just a thought, but... Is it ever possible to insert a lintel without removing the soldier course. Can this be done by:
(i) removing the window,
(ii) removing the brick under the lintel,
(iii) removing the lintel,
(iv) inserting (and propping) L-shaped lintel (under/behind soldier course)
(v) inserting a new brick under lintel
(vi) installing new windows

Thanks,
Rich

 

[geraldthehamster]

We did this once using Luck. The soldiers didn't fall out

 

[RichA]

I take from this that it is a bad idea, but may work if i am lucky.

 

[banjodeano]

I take from this that it is a bad idea, but may work if i am lucky.

i just think you have to be really careful, i asked a question about a multi tool cutter that i bought, i was taking an old wooden window out and planned using the multi tool cutter to take the frame out gently, a little piece at a time, i had a row of soldier bricks just resting on the old wooden window frame, i managed to replace the window without disturbing the bricks, and the window was 2.4 mtre wide..
but i see some of my other windows have been replaced by the previous owner, and they have made such a pigs ear that the bricks have moved considerably..just go nice and steady and take your time

 

[garyo]

I did this with a 1.8m wide lintel, and used two acros/strongboys to increase the luck factor.

In your step ii) you'll probably need to remove 2 or 3 bricks to be able to swing the lintel in, but it's certainly doable.