Lintel failure or subsidence

[Nozzle]

If the line of the crack happens to align with the edge of the lintel... is there really enough extra length to sit on the brick? I don't know what the over hang is supposed to be, but that looks short

Nozzle

 

[ss152]

Would I be right in thinking that was a window originally rather than french doors?

I dont know to be honest. We only moved in 5 weeks ago. As far as I am aware the entire house was UPVCd approx 10 years ago - I'd imagine they were doors but made of timber which has a better support?

 

[ss152]

If the line of the crack happens to align with the edge of the lintel... is there really enough extra length to sit on the brick? I don't know what the over hang is supposed to be, but that looks short

Nozzle

Our plasterer took one look and said not subsidence as no cracks on outside at the same place, but likely that some movement in building from the hot summer had put pressure on weakest part which is that lintel. Comparing that lintel with all the others in our house it looks incredibly narrow and weaker and old. Putting a new metal lintel in as replacement, is that a big job?

 

[^woody^]

I'd be wary of a plasterer giving structural advice, although he's on the right track regarding subsidence.

There is no such thing as a lintel not being strong enough. If it's not strong enough you will see a pile of bricks in the front room and on the patio.

A new lintel won't stop the wall moving

 

[catlad]

I wouldn't be to concerned as it only looks to be about 4' wide
If a new floor has been added then maybe that's put additional loading on the lintel.