Concrete lintel cracked on top of window cracks in wall +pic

[benjiman]

Hi all,

I noticed cracks in the wall and also it seemed like the UPVC window frame was bowing.

So decided to hack off some of the plaster/undercoat and have discovered that the lintel has a crack running horizontally across (see pics)

What is the best course of action? It is an upstairs bathroom window.

Untitled

• benjiman
• 13 Sep 2013
• 1

Untitled

• benjiman
• 13 Sep 2013
• 1

Untitled

• benjiman
• 13 Sep 2013
• 1

 

[^woody^]

Change it

 

[benjiman]

How long will it take a builder to change?

And will there be collateral damage? Rough costing?

 

[pinenot]

Is this a cavity build wall, if so that would most likely the crack will only be affecting the internal leaf. The worrying thing would be how has this happened?? ...pinenot

 

[benjiman]

Nope it's not a cavity wall pinenot.

The cracking also shows on the outside of the window. It's a 1930 build, no cavity walls. So guess this makes it a more serious issue?

 

[pinenot]

Yep, although that then means it could also be a stone lintel, (delamination) however it doesn't look likely.
OK, first off I would want to brace that with a small Accrow (hire shop or get in a builder) from the cill (all covering removed) then hack off all remaining plaster, see what's under there and what damage is done.
Second - its an upstairs window, is on a eaves wall or gable wall i.e. how much stone/brick is above it?
Third - what is the wall made from, brick or stone and how thick is the wall if stone built??
Also it looks roughcast from the refection in one of your photos, can you confirm??? ...pinenot