How to tell if i need lintel repair/replacement? Brickwork, drystone walling, render are a few subjects covered here. Click here to post questions and get answers

[Chris8oii]

Hi All,

I am in the process of replacing some very old single glaze windows in a house built around 1900.

The survey report suggests there maybe internal timber lintels above any openings but you cant see obiosuly as everything has been rendered over. Is there a way to investigate safely if there are lintels above openings and how can you tell if they need repairing or replacing? If lintel work does need to be carried out what is the best course of action? concrete replacements or steel bars? The house is a solid masonary construction and has no cavity. I am not sure if this has any bearing on anything.
I have attached pics. Any advice would be greatly appreciated as I am a renovation newbie.

Chris

[stoneyboy]

Hi chris8oii
It look like your first floor windows have curved arches above them so lintels should not be needed. For the ground floor ones the render will have to be hacked away to expose what is underneath.
Regards S