lintels/window strength

[bec29]

Hi,
ok, this isn't exactly a diy question, but i'm hoping you can help anyway.
How would i know if my upvc windows have a lintel above them? Are there signs i can look for from the outside (because there is no way of seeing from the inside on my windows). We are actually going to be replacing our windows. The company we have chosen to use stated that 2 of our windows (bays) will be reinforced with metal poles (however, this was only when he was directly asked, and he mumbled something about it being calculated on a computer). Now the written quote has arrived it says all of the frames will be heavy duty high impact PVCU - does this mean the same as strengthened/reinforced?
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you x

 

[Chukka63]

dont know about the window question.
lintels.depending on the age of the house will determine whether you can see a lintel fromt he outside.if it has a metal "catnic type lintel then you should be able to see a small amount of the lintel sticking out from the window but will finish just short of the brickwork.if its an older property it may well have a concrete on the inside and bricks supported by wall ties on the outside.no visible sign can be seen from the outside.
sorry i cant be mor eprecise,any decent builder would be able to tell you on inspection of the house