A lintel or lintol is a type of beam (a horizontal structural element) that spans openings such as portals, doors, windows and fireplaces. It can be a decorative architectural element, or a combined ornamented structural item.

What is the purpose of lintel beam?

A lintel is one type of beam which used to support the above wall when openings like doors, windows etc. are necessary to provide a building structure. The main function of the lintel is to take loads coming from above wall and transfer its load to the side walls.

What is the difference between lintel and beam?

The beam carries the load from slab and transfers it to the column from, column it is transferred to the footing and from footing finally to the soil. Whereas lintel carries the load of the wall above the openings and transfers it to walls only.