Brick Arch Repair

Brick Arch Repair In London

Has your Brick Arch dropped or cracked and need repaired?

London Structural Repairs are a small company that can cary out brick arch repair no matter what the situation is with your brick arches.

Brick arches are usually a weak part of a building and usually rely on support from below as in a window frame or door frame.

Disturbing brick arches can be a costly mistake?

Some builders change windows and doors and do no not prop or support the brick arches successfully, this can cause the brick arch to fail by causing downward movement and use cracking to the arch and also cause vertical cracking above the arch.

Brick arches are a clever piece of engineering and some designs can result in high structural loads being placed upon them. Brick and stone arches have been used for hundreds of years. Some arches rely on a keystone to lock them into place.

We are always carrying out brick arch repairs in London and the surroundings by using a method known as masonry reinforcement. Home owners contact us with concerns of cracking on or above the brick arches.

This project is in South Woodford, East London where the property owner was worried about some cracks that were present in and above their brick arches as they were about to get their windows changed. The window fitting company advised them to get the cracks fixed before they would carry out their works.

We carried out brick arch repair by installing Helical bars and grout to create masonry beams above the brick arch, taking the weight off the arch and installed pinning ties up through the arch to help stabilise and resist against any further cracking.

 

If you have any failed or dropped brick arches that need repairing then get in touch with us for a free quote.

 

 

Bed Joint Reinforcement

Bed Joint Reinforcement

Bed Joint Reinforcement Is What We Use Frequently To Strengthen Unstable Masonry Walls

Has your building or property got structural stabilisation problems?

If yes you have come to the right place, here at London Structural Repairs we are a company of structural repairs experts with a wealth of experience in dealing with structural instability in period and modern buildings.

We often use a repair technique called bed joint reinforcement. This is basically a helical bar and grout system installed in the bed joint of the masonry to help strengthen and spread structural loads.

We use bed joint reinforcement to create masonry beams above lintels, windows, door openings and to help with subsidence stabilisation in certain circumstances.

There are a few companies that provide us with the bed joint reinforcement bars and grout with Helifix and Thor Helical  that are both leading companies in the industry that supply these products.

Engineers and Architects contact us regularly with their bed joint reinforcement designs that have drawn up to stabilise structural instability and restore structural integrity. It is often cheaper and less inconvenience to clients by using this repair method.

We use specialist diamond twin bladed machines to a predetermined depth attached to a powerful dust extractor to remove the mortar beds for a dust free cut before the installation of bed joint reinforcement.

People that ask us to carry out structural repairs stabilisation works are home owners, property developers, loss adjusters, property management companies, engineers, architects and surveyors.

Here at London Structural Repairs we have to deal with lots of structural repair situations on a daily basis, check out our services page to see a comprehensive list of services we have on offer to anybody that needs help with structural repairs issues in and around London.

 

If your property is in need of Bed Joint Reinforcement or any other structural repairs stabilisation the contact us for a free quote.

Movement Joints-Thermal Cracking

Movement Joints – Thermal Cracking

Movement Joints

London Structural Repairs were asked by a structural engineer consultant to create a movement joint to a property in South East London, which was suffering from thermal cracking. Our skilled operatives cut a slot in the brickwork and made good the surrounding bricks then used backing foam and appropriate mastic to create the movement joint.

Movement joints are often required to provide a break in extensive spans of masonry or in instances where Thermal Movement has caused extensive structural damage which requires remedial Movement Joint installation.

Thermal Movement is a growing cause of concern with our ever changing weather having adverse effects to our masonry by causing the expansion and contraction of masonry.

Bricks and mortar have extremely high compressive strength and can with stand extremely high downward forces but unfortunately bricks and mortar are relatively low in tensile strength so under expansion and contraction unfortunately the structural integrity will be lost.

Thin vertical cracking will appear and if Movement Joints are not installed unfortunately further cracking will occur which could result in catastrophic loss of structural integrity.

The introduction of Movement Joints is carried out by cutting a slot through the external skin of masonry to a predetermined width with horizontal slots chased into the mortar for the installation of slip ties in cavity walls.

Movement Joints consist of a foam backing cord installed in between the masonry previously cut and slip ties installed to resist against wind forces ensuring that structural integrity remains whilst the Movement Joint installation remains.

In your property is suffering from Thermal Movement and requires an experienced specialist contractor to design a free no obligation specification and quotation be sure to contact London Structural Repairs today and arrange your free survey on 020 8936 7699

 

 

Bay Window Repair - Reinforcement

Bay Window Repair – Reinforcement

The structural integrity of a bay window is critical to your home’s overall health. These architectural features add aesthetic appeal and space but face unique stresses that can cause damage over time. Understanding these issues and knowing how to address them is key to preserving your home’s value & safety. This guide covers the essential aspects of bay window repair and reinforcement. Bay windows with their protruding design introduce complexities not found in simple flat windows. The outward thrust against the wall coupled with external weather forces and internal pressures creates a unique set of challenges. The larger glass area also means increased weight supported by a projecting structure.

Stress Points Above and Below the Window

The primary structural points of concern for a bay window are the areas above and below the unit. The header is the horizontal beam that supports the weight of the wall above the window opening and must be robust enough to carry the load. Improperly sized or installed headers can sag and cause stress on the surrounding structure. The sill or floor of the bay window and the supporting joists or foundation beneath it must be able to bear the weight of the window itself and any additional loads such as furniture or occupants within the bay. Rot or insect damage or inadequate support can compromise this area. Moisture Ingress and Its Consequences Moisture is a relentless adversary to any building material. For bay windows the potential entry points are numerous. Improper flashing or sealant failure around the perimeter or damaged external cladding can allow water to penetrate the structure. Once inside water can cause significant damage and then require bay window repair.

Rotting of Wood Components

Wooden frames & sills and supporting structures are particularly vulnerable to moisture. Rot can set in gradually & soften the wood and reduce its load-bearing capacity. This can manifest as soft spots or crumbling material or visible fungal growth. As wood decays it loses its strength like a tree weakened by disease.

Corrosion of Metal Fasteners

Metal screws and nails and brackets used in the construction of bay windows can corrode when exposed to moisture. Rust weakens these components & diminishes their ability to hold materials together. This can lead to loosening of joints or separation of components and ultimately structural compromise.

Damage to Surrounding Wall Materials

The impact of moisture extends beyond the immediate window structure. Water that penetrates the bay window can damage surrounding wall materials including drywall & plaster and insulation & sheathing. This can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew and impact indoor air quality and further degrade the building envelope.

Settlement and Foundation Issues

Homes can experience gradual settlement over time where the foundation shifts slightly. While minor settlement is normal significant movement can put undue stress on all parts of the house including bay windows. If the foundation supporting the bay window settles unevenly it can cause the window structure to warp or crack or become misaligned.

External Environmental Factors

Bay windows are directly exposed to the elements. Wind and rain & snow and ice all exert pressure on the structure. High winds can cause the window to flex and repeated exposure to freeze-thaw cycles can degrade materials and loosen seals. Ice buildup particularly in colder climates can add significant weight and stress. Recognizing the early warning signs of bay window damage is crucial. Proactive attention can prevent minor issues from escalating into major structural problems and save both time and money. Addressing damage when it’s a small crack is far simpler than dealing with a sagging bay.

Visible Cracks and Gaps

The most obvious indicators of trouble are visible cracks in the wall surrounding the bay window or gaps appearing between the window frame & the wall. These can be signs of the structure settling or the outward pressure of the bay window exceeding the wall’s capacity. Cracks in the framing or sill are also cause for concern.

 Sagging or Uneven Appearance

If the top of the bay window appears to be sagging or if the entire structure seems to be leaning or uneven it indicates a loss of support. This is a serious sign that the structural elements beneath or above the window are failing. An experienced observer might notice that the upper part of the window has dropped slightly like a tired shoulder.

Water Stains & Discoloration

Water stains on the interior walls or ceiling particularly around the bay window are a clear sign of a leak. Discoloration of the exterior siding or trim can also indicate water intrusion. These are symptoms of the underlying problem of moisture ingress.

Drafts and Air Leakage

An increase in drafts or cold air entering the room around the bay window suggests that the seals have failed or the structure has shifted.This creates gaps that affect comfort and shows the window no longer protects the interior properly from weather conditions.

Windows or Doors That Stick or Are Hard to Operate

When the sashes of your bay window or any doors in the bay structure start sticking or become hard to open and close it can mean the frame is warping from moisture damage or structural movement. The window frame has become stiff like a limb that has been in a cast for too long.

Growth of Mold or Mildew

Finding mold or mildew through a musty smell or visible dark spots means moisture is building up in or around the bay window structure. This shows there is a breach in the building envelope. Reinforcing a bay window is not just about appearance but is essential for maintaining your home’s structural integrity. A reinforced bay window works as a strong anchor that stops further damage and protects the entire house.

Stopping More Structural Damage

Reinforcement fixes the main causes of bay window problems like poor support or outward pressure. Strengthening the weak areas stops rot from spreading & prevents cracks and sagging from getting worse. It works like supporting a weak bridge to stop it from falling down.

Keeping Home Value

A bay window in good condition adds to your home’s appearance and overall value. Visible damage or structural problems can reduce your property’s appeal and worth. Spending money on reinforcement protects your property’s future value.

Making Sure It Is Safe

A damaged bay window can be dangerous. Sagging structures put stress on nearby walls and ceilings and could collapse. Water damage weakens materials & makes them unstable. Reinforcement keeps the bay window secure and stable.

Better Energy Efficiency

Bay windows that are sealed properly & structurally sound provide better insulation. Damage & structural problems often cause air leaks and poor insulation that increase heating and cooling costs. Reinforcement restores the seal and structural integrity for a more energy efficient home.

Defense Against Future Weather Problems

Reinforcement often means upgrading materials and construction methods to handle future weather and environmental challenges. This can include better sealants and stronger framing materials or improved flashing systems for greater protection from weather. Different methods can reinforce bay windows depending on the damage type & severity. These techniques redistribute weight & strengthen weak areas for long term stability.

Making the Supporting Structure Stronger

The foundation & framing under the bay window are most important.

Adding More Joists or Support Beams

If the floor joists under the bay window are too small or show rot then additional joists can be installed next to existing ones to increase their strength. In serious cases steel or engineered wood support beams may need to be installed under the bay. This is like adding more pillars to hold up a failing roof.

Foundation Repair or Underpinning

When foundation settlement causes bay window problems then foundation repair specialists may be needed. This could mean underpinning the foundation with new concrete piers or other structural repairs to stabilize the ground under the bay. Making the Header and Framing Stronger The structure above & around the window opening needs attention.

Installing Stronger Headers

If the existing header is weak or damaged it may need replacement with a stronger beam. This often means temporarily supporting the wall above the window while removing the old header and installing a new properly sized one. Laminated veneer lumber or steel headers are common upgrades.

Adding Structural Bracing

Diagonal bracing can be added to the framing inside the bay window structure to resist sideways forces and prevent shifting. This makes the entire bay rigid. These braces work like the internal skeleton of the bay & stop it from twisting.

Fixing or Replacing Rotted Wood

Any wood parts with rot must be fixed. This usually means cutting out rotted sections and replacing them with solid pressure treated lumber. For extensive rot larger framing sections may need replacement.

Better Weatherproofing and Sealing

Stopping future water damage is critical for reinforcement.

Advanced Flashing Techniques

Proper flashing is essential to direct water away from the window and surrounding wall. All Structure Upgrading to stronger flashing materials & making sure there is a continuous waterproof membrane around the bay window can stop leaks. Flashing works like an umbrella for the vulnerable edges of your window.

High-Performance Sealants and Caulking

Using quality durable sealants around the window frame perimeter & where different materials connect is essential. These sealants must stay flexible to handle movement and resist damage from UV rays and weather.

Exterior Cladding Repair or Replacement

Damage to exterior siding or trim or brickwork around the bay window can let water in. Repairing or replacing these parts helps with overall water management of the bay.

Interior Reinforcement & Aesthetics

While structural reinforcement comes first, interior repairs are often needed too.

Plasterboard and Plaster Repair

After fixing the underlying structural problems, interior drywall or plaster may need repair or replacement because of water damage or cracking.

Insulation and Vapor Barrier Restoration

Damage to the bay window structure can also harm insulation & vapor barriers. These should be fixed to keep energy efficiency and prevent moisture problems inside the wall cavity. While some small DIY repairs might work bay window reinforcement usually involves complex structural issues. Hiring a qualified professional is strongly recommended to make sure the work is done correctly and safely.

When to Call a Professional

If you see any signs of damage mentioned before, especially sagging or extensive cracking or evidence of rot it is time to get professional help. Trying major structural repairs without proper knowledge can cause more damage or create safety risks.

Choosing the Right Contractor

When looking for a contractor for bay window repair and reinforcement think about these factors:

Specialization in Window or Structural Work

Find contractors who focus on window replacement and repair or those with solid experience in structural carpentry and home renovation. A company that has worked with bay window systems will know more.

Experience and Reputation

Ask about their experience with similar projects. Look at online reviews or testimonials or request references from past clients. A contractor with a solid track record will likely deliver quality work.

Qualifications and Insurance

Make sure the contractor has proper licensing and insurance. This protects you from responsibility if accidents or damage happen during repairs.

Detailed Written Estimates

Get detailed written estimates from several contractors. The estimate should clearly list the work scope & materials and timeline and cost. Compare these estimates carefully.

Bay Window Repair Process

A professional approach to bay window repair usually includes:

Initial Inspection & Diagnosis

The contractor will do a complete inspection of the bay window and surrounding structure to find the exact cause and extent of damage.

Developing a Repair Plan

Based on what they find, the contractor will suggest a detailed repair plan including the methods & materials for reinforcement.

Executing the Repairs

The team will do the necessary structural work to reinforce the bay window and make any needed repairs to surrounding parts.

Final Inspection and Cleanup

After repairs are done, the contractor will do a final inspection to confirm the work meets quality standards. They will also clean up the work area.

Preventing Future Bay Window Damage Active maintenance & attention to detail work best against future bay window damage. Many problems come from preventable causes like neglect or poor upkeep.

Regular Inspections

Make it routine to visually check your bay window at least twice yearly, perhaps in spring & fall. Look for any new cracks or gaps or signs of wear in the sealant or discoloration on the exterior. A quick look can be as valuable as a routine checkup for your home.

Maintaining Sealants and Caulking

The seals around your bay window are its first defense against water. Check the caulking and sealant regularly. Over time these materials can crack or shrink or become brittle. Reapply or replace any worn sealant quickly.

Ensuring Proper Drainage Around the Bay

Make sure water drains away from the base of your bay window instead of pooling around it. Check that gutters and downspouts are clear and directing water away from the foundation. If landscaping slopes toward the house, consider changing it to create proper drainage.

Cleaning & Maintaining Exterior Surfaces

Keep the exterior surfaces of your bay window & surrounding cladding clean. Remove any debris that might hold moisture against the structure. Trim back any plants or trees growing too close to the window that could cause damage or trap moisture.

Addressing Minor Issues Promptly

Small problems should not be ignored. A tiny crack in the sealant or a piece of trim that has come slightly loose can turn into a major water damage issue if not fixed quickly. Take care of any problems as soon as you notice them.

Professional Inspections

It is a good idea to have a professional examine your bay window & its structure every few years. This is especially important if your home is older or if you live in an area that experiences harsh weather conditions. A trained professional can identify potential problems before they turn into serious issues. Think of it as taking your car in for regular maintenance to keep it running well. When you understand what can go wrong with bay windows and know how to spot damage early, you can take steps to strengthen them and maintain them properly. This approach will help ensure your bay window stays attractive and structurally solid for many years.

 

REQUEST A FREE QUOTE

Remedial Repairs South London

Remedial Repairs South London

One of our recent projects on a victorian house to carry out remedial repairs South London

London Structural repairs carried out a variety of remedial repairs South London for a private property developer.

The property was a period property that was suffering from bowing walls on the side elevations of the house and there was also cracks in the property that needed remedial crack stitching works carried out.

We were asked to strip the house bare internally for the client before carrying out the remedial Repairs, removing all plaster from the walls and ceilings.

Get in touch for a free quotation

LSR provided a full Structural survey and designed the remedial solutions for the properties defects.

Lateral Restraint ties were installed to the bowing side elevation walls, connecting to the floor joists to stop any further outward movement of the wall.

Bowing walls outward movement in most cases is due to insufficient lateral restraint, tying the wall to the ceiling and floor joists. Without these lateral restraint ties the building is vulnerable and with the continued outward movement the building is at risk of collapsing.

Carrying out essential structural repairs will protect your investment

Helifix bars were installed to all external and internal walls where cracks were present this is known as crack stitching.

Cracks In buildings can develop for a number of different reasons. It is important to diagnose the root cause of the cracking in order to be able to recommend the correct crack repair method. Most cracks can be diagnosed by the crack pattern and the position on the crack on the wall or building. Remedial repairs South London is an area we carry out works in quite frequently.

London Structural Repairs specialise in investigating, diagnosing, repairing and the monitoring of cracks or any remedial Repairs South London or any parts of London.

London Structural Repairs are specialists in these type’s of works and these works  are not usually carried out by general builders.

REQUEST A FREE QUOTE

If you own a property and it is in need of remedial repairs south London or any other part of London then feel free to contact London Structural Repairs on

020 8936 7699 for a free consultation.

 

 

 

Masonry Repairs

Masonry Repairs

Masonry repairs 

London Structural Repairs LTD are Masonry Repairs experts providing a wealth of knowledge and services to our clients in and around London. If you ever need professional Masonry Repairs  specialists, LSR cover all these services. Masonry Repairs can cover a wide range of services and LSR cover them all.

This is one of our Masonry Repair projects in London.

Our client had recently purchased this property and contacted us having already had a structural survey completed, with recommendations to some Masonry Repair works to be carried out. For expert help with repairs, it is always a good idea to choose specialists familiar with both Masonry Repairs and the London market. When you have a Structural Survey the survey can be quite vague as to what remedial works are required, thats why it is important to get in touch with a structural repair company if any remedial works are recommended who have the knowledge and experience to provide a repair solution.

This particular building needed structural Repairs carried out as it was suffering from cracks to a side flank wall, a bowing flank wall on the opposite side and also cracks in and around the front Masonry Bay Window. These are typical issues that often require skilled Masonry Repairs London professionals to address. The client was intending on doing a full rip out and refurbishment to the inside of the building but needed to have the Masonry Repairs carried out first.

LSR started out by dealing with the side flank wall with the cracks in it. For local buildings, our Repairs  team cut out and replaced the cracked bricks and installed crack stitch bars to strengthen the wall.

Contact Londons Crack Repair Experts

LSR are one of Londons leading  specialists.

We then carried our the  Repair works to the Bay Window. Masonry Reinforcement was installed to to the ground floor and 1st floor bay window and the external masonry was reattached to the internal joists with the use of drive pins and then all the chases and making good to the bay window was carried out with the use colour matched lime mortar. As experts in Masonry Repairs London, our team ensures every detail is professionally resolved.

Our last job on the property was to install Lateral Restraint ties to the bowing flank wall. lack of lateral restraint is a common fault on period properties and the works are to reconnect the the internal floor joists to the outer walls to stop any further movement. The works are usually carried out from the outside of the property but on this occasion we had to install straps instead of ties as the flank wall was to close to the next door neighbours property. LSR lifted floor boards and cut out pockets in the masonry and used a non shrinking grout to hold the straps into the pockets as well as noggins in-between the floor joists. For these specialist jobs in London, trust a company deeply experienced with Masonry Repairs  approaches.

If your property is in need of Masonry repairs then give our experts a call or fill out an enquiry form on our website. Choosing our Masonry Repairs  professionals will ensure quality and peace of mind.

020 8936 7699

Make An Enquiry

AESTHETIC Repairs & Period Restoration

AESTHETIC Repairs & Period Restoration

Period Restoration

Below is one of our recent Period Restoration projects in South West London where we undertook the cleaning of the facial bricks by bead blasting.  We then installed masonry reinforcement bars and redecorated the exterior of the property.

Many of London’s period properties have suffered years of neglect and with a fast paced housing market, and ever increasing property value, you shouldn’t neglect the AESTHETIC’s to the exterior of your property.
The first thing a potential buyer or client will see is the exterior of your property and by enhancing the external features of your property you will not only make it look more appealing, you will also add extensive value.
By carrying out cost effective AESTHETIC repairs we can enhance your property so that its former glory is returned.
London Structural Repairs can carry out brick cleaning to remove dirt and grime from the masonry after years of carbon attack, pollution and dirt.
With the brickwork cleaned a freshly repointed property will provide a practical solution to preventing moisture ingress.
LSR can also employ a range of brick tinting techniques to match brickwork and repair failed or crumbling brickwork when bricks have eroded or suffered impact damage or in instances when poor quality materials have previously been used.
Make sure to contact London Structural Repairs, one of London’s leading Period Property Repair specialists today for your free survey.

REQUEST A FREE QUOTE

Cracks in Walls

Cracks in Walls

If your property has cracks in Walls then its time to get them fixed

London Structural Repairs are specialists in dealing with cracks in walls to period and modern properties in London and surrounding areas.

Cracks In walls can develop for a number of different reasons. It is important to diagnose the root cause of the cracking in order to be able to recommend the correct crack repair method. Most cracks in walls can be diagnosed by the crack pattern and the position on the crack on the wall or building.

Feel free to check out our services page

We specialise in investigating, diagnosing, repairing and the monitoring of cracks in walls.

London Structural Repairs can offer you an in depth survey to find out the root cause of the cracks in walls to your property, then we can provide you with the most economical modern repair methods, with the least disturbance to all involved.

Structural defects can devalue your property and even stop the sale of your property

We recently carried out Helifix bar installation to a period property in High Wycombe. The property was suffering from lintel failure, which was the cause of the cracks. London Structural Repairs trained operatives installed deep masonry, helical beams and crack stitch bars to restore the structural integrity to the property, the pointing was colour matched to the existing masonry.

Attention to detail will make all the difference 

Expensive specialist tools are used to carry out the repairs and it is important for the works to be carried out neatly and professionally with a high standard of finish because the last thing you want is an unsightly repair drawing your eye to the repair area.

London Structural Repairs operatives are highly skilled and trained in dealing with all types of modern day repair systems for cracks in walls repairs.

This may mean installing masonry reinforcement (Helical Bars), underpinning or rebuilding.

REQUEST A FREE QUOTE

If your investment is suffering from cracks in walls then we will be glad to hear from you to provide you with a free quotation on 020 8936 7699

 

 

Lintel Failure

Lintel Failure

Is your Property suffering from this common problem of Lintel Failure

London structural repairs are specialists in the repair and reinforcement of failed lintels which have caused structural defects such as cracking and downward movement. We use various repair techniques to suit each individual situation of Lintel Failure.

LSR carried out lintel failure repairs to a property in London, the properties lintel had failed and we installed masonry reinforcement as well as pinning up the lintel with our modern repair methods.

Cracked or sagging lintels will make your property look unsightly

Lintel Reinforcement is necessary when Lintel Failure has occurred, in many instances the only method of repair was costly and disruptive remove and rebuild techniques but with London structural repairs modern repair method’s this can be avoided with our sympathetic non disruptive repair technique.

By combining a range of Bed Joint Reinforcement techniques combined with Pinning Ties and grout injection LSR can introduce concealed reinforcement within the Bed Joints this will carry the new imposed loads alleviating the stress from the lintel failure , combined with pinning ties which reconnect the sagging lintel and high strength grout injection we can reinforce the masonry whilst retaining the original aesthetics.

Why not take a look at our services page for other repairs we carry out

London structural repairs have carried out a vast amount of Lintel failure Reinforcement works to both the domestic and commercial sectors.

In domestic applications where the home owner would like to retain the original aesthetics to their period property our installation method will include the complete Lintel Repair including the repair of all cracks with the mortar, replacement matching bricks restoring the structural integrity of the failed masonry whilst providing an almost hidden repair.

In commercial applications LSR can save a vast amount of time and money by carrying out Lintel failure Reinforcement without the need for disruptive and time consuming remove and re-build methods. Often when window replacement schemes are being carried out Lintel Failure is common cause of concern and disruption to schedules and planned works.

REQUEST A FREE QUOTE

In instances of Lintel Failure be sure to contact London structural repairs for your free no obligation specification and quotation to restore the structural integrity of your failed lintels today 020 8936 7699

 

 

Cracks above windows and doors

Cracks Above Windows and Doors

Has your property got Cracks Above Windows and Doors ?

This is one of our recent projects in south London. The property was a period property suffering from cracks above windows and doors. LSR had to work on the masonry above a set of patio doors and two windows. London Structural Repairs installed masonry reinforcement beams and pinning ties to stabilise the brick arch lintels and then made good the pointing and cracks to a near invisible repair but with a bit of weathering will become a perfect repair as seen from the photos below. This type of repair method is quick, cost effective and non disruptive to the residents of the property.

Cracks above windows and doors are usually caused by failed lintels. This a common fault on Victorian and Edwardian properties as the brick lintels known as boot lintels do not span across the opening into the main wall of the house as modern lintels do taking the load of the brick work above it.

Lintels are usually made up of bricks, concrete or steel and also it is not uncommon for us to come across timber lintels. When the lintels fail you get cracks above openings and this is usually because of window replacement, eroded mortar joints or if in London we come across it to be bomb damage from world war two frequently.

Have your Cracks Above Windows and Doors looked at by our experts

Brick arch lintels were designed to sit on top of well made timber windows or doors on period properties. Routine maintenance to the doors or windows is important to maintain the structural integrity of the wood. A lot of home owners have the timber windows removed and replaced with modern type UPVC windows. It is important during the window exchange to try not to disturb the above brick arch lintel or you run the risk of cracks above windows and doors.

London Structural Repairs LTD are specialist masonry repair experts and are here to solve any issues you may be facing with your your property no matter how big or small.

 

Make An Enquiry