Replacing Linels Cost - Resonable? - Finally got quotes...

So I should have been more specific, and asked what did you coat it with, then I wouldn't have got the witty remark. I do actually learn a lot from you, it's just hard work.
 
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If the soldier course is removed, then that shape etc would be used. The question here, is about using an angle iron that wouldn't require the solider course to be taken out, at least that's how I assume that the cheap builders are keeping the costs down.
 
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Sorry for the late reply......

So the conclusion is....f*** it and just go with the angle iron.....?

This cannot be an isolated issue as there must be 1000s of properties without external leaf lintels - I assume they just get an angle iron most of the time too...
 
Most times, the old window would have been providing the support for the inner and outer leaves, but when they rot and get replaced with thinner Upvc windows, the window installers just stick them in the most convenient position. They're just paid to install windows unfortunately.

Edit: If Noseall has painted his steel lintel with the smooth hammerite, then I suppose you'll be safe enough to paint an angle iron and use that.
 
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This cannot be an isolated issue as there must be 1000s of properties without external leaf lintels - I assume they just get an angle iron most of the time too...

You start to see saggy ones everywhere once you know what you're looking for. Even my local village hall must have had a cheeky 'windows only' upvc job
 
Just an update to this old thread:

Decided to get a few more upvc companies to give quotes.....at my last tether so I was going to succumb to an angle iron as the only easy solution.

This one came measured up, I explained about the lack of external lintel.

He was very clear from the off they would install lintels for all windows, that this would be expected practice these days. So a positive start.

He also said that they would use a proper lintel! Even Better!

When I checked if he meant angle iron, he said no, a proper lintel (catnic, IG or equivalent). He said that when his father ran the business in the past, they would have as it was the traditional thing to use, but since taking over the company, they realised that using a proper lintel was no more expensive and far more appropriate. So since then, that is what they have used. This sounds good to me.

I have a feeling that they will be more expensive than most....but...when you factor in that they will be doing it all properly....andI do not have to run around finding a builder.... it may be worth it.

My only further query would be, what is the most appropriate way to deal with the soldier course not lining up with the mortar bed at the top of the normal brickwork. As you can see in the image below. The soldier course ends in the middle of a normal brick.


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PS, The current quoter mentioned they would have to rebuild the dropped brickwork too.
 
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To answer your last question I would sit the lintel on the next course higher than the frame, and get the window fitters to use an add-on to the top of the frame... say 25mm or so.
 
Well...........would you believe it......

That last upvc company, that said all the right things......without me asking questions or specifying my own solutions......has pretty much refused to give me a quote....

...speechless....

I just don't understand it.....a upvc company refusing work. It is not like I asked too many questions or said anything stupid. He came, measured up, discussed some window options, I asked about lintels and he gave the best response so far. I asked about replacing a few failed sealed units whilst doing the work. I asked about the option laminating the french door glass. He left. He said the quote would be with me after the weekend (2 working days).

It has now been over two weeks. After two calls, they promised to send the quote thorough, and after the second call, to ring me back.........but nothing!

So it certainly seems like they are ignoring me to the point where I give up.....

Maybe it was the brickwork re-build that put them off......I have no idea....

I am so confused.....

I rang anther firm.....they said over the phone that it is required to install lintels on all windows (sounds good) they normally specify galvanised angle irons....which sounds like the best option at this stage. If @noseall uses them....then I guess...they must be fine....
At least they said they are galvanised.....
 
I changed a 70year old one on my house last week. The angle iron was a little over an inch, I have no idea how they managed to balance the bricks on it

Old:
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New:
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I already noticed your thread, nice work. The angle iron looks a lot thicker too.
Would the angle iron have been 70yo? Or was it installed when the last upvc windows were fitted? I would have assumed the latter.

In fact (before you posted) I paid special attention to what lintel you used over the window....and I was very happy to see you used a proper one..... :)

Is that lintel specifically for just the outer leaf? ( I just checked myself IG L10)

Did you fit a cavity tray into it too?
 
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I'm not sure it's specifically an outer, but definitely for a single leaf.

I didn't fit a cavity tray because the window is so high up. The eaves sheet is directly above it and the facia covers most of the bricks above so I could never imagine any water getting in above it.
 
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