Installing a lintel

[Wonderhorse]

I'm creating an opening of 1500mm in an internal block wall.

I have a lintel (1800mm long), I've checked the joists above, they run parallel to the wall so there's no joists resting on the blockwork.

However, the blockwork does continue up as it forms the wall to our bedroom.

Am I okay to just cut the letterbox opening and slide the lintel in, without propping anything up?

Thank you in advance.

 

[Ian H]

I think it's a bit too wide for that. I'd want 2 props.

 

[Doggit]

If the cement is good, as it's blockwork rather than bricks, I'd say that if you use a diamond blade with a controlled amount of water over it, then you could get away with it. With brickwork, that distance would drop, but blockwork should hold. You could fit a piece of 3x1 across the opening, and put a couple of bolts in each block to support it, and that'll give you easier access to the opening whilst you work.

 

[Wonderhorse]

Thank you for your replies.

Should I cut my hole to the exact depth of the lintel, or cut it slightly bigger and stuff dry cement between the top of the lintel and the existing blockwork?

 

[Ian H]

Wet mix of sand and rapid set cement.

 

[Wonderhorse]

No need for props in the end. The blocks above held in place a treat.

Thanks for your help.

 

[tomfe]

Can i just ask a quick question?
Why have you made a large opening then blocked up half of it with studwork?
Also is that 4x2 pse?