Lintel Replacement

How Lintel Replacement Works

Lintel Replacement

How Lintel Replacement Works

What is a Steel Lintel

A lintel is a piece of steel that spans the top of an opening on Your property, (e.g., a door or window) supporting the weight of the wall and its components above openings such as windows, doors, or portals. As the steel lintels and beams age, they rust, swell, and deform, creating pressure in Your brick masonry wall. As this pressure grows, even the hardest masonry blows apart and can seriously damage or destroy sections of Your property.

Supporting a heavy load isn’t always the only function of the lintel, sometimes it is just a decorative, architectural feature.

Most of the steel lintel replacements we see in the Chicago area are the by-product of significant steel attrition, resulting in mortar cracks, masonry wall damage, displacement, and reduction in the structural integrity of Your property.

What are the signs of a bad steel lintel?

1. Mortar cracks near the upper corners of doors, windows, and other openings

2. Line cracks, step-cracks, and wall component cracks or position changes. This type of damage means the issue has become serious and besides the lintel replacement, often requires a complete rebuilding of the wall or the damaged section

3. Bricks above the window or door appear to be deflected or wavy instead of laying straight and plumb.

4. Stones or brick above lintel protruding outward from the upper corners of the windows or doors.

5. Cracked bricks in the upper corners of the window and door.

You may be curious as to why Your bricks are needing to be repaired so often, when it is in fact the failing steel lintel constantly creating new damage.

Filling cracks with mortar, or covering a corroded steel lintel with paint or an aluminum cap provides only a temporary solution, leaving the actual issue to fester and become worse. The deterioration of the steel lintel will occur at a faster rate because of trapped moisture.

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Supporting a heavy load isn’t always the only function of the lintel, sometimes it is just a decorative, architectural feature.

What are the signs of a bad steel lintel?

1. Mortar cracks near the upper corners of doors, windows, and other openings

3. Bricks above the window or door appear to be deflected or wavy instead of laying straight and plumb.

4. Stones or brick above lintel protruding outward from the upper corners of the windows or doors.

5. Cracked bricks in the upper corners of the window and door.

You may be curious as to why Your bricks are needing to be repaired so often, when it is in fact the failing steel lintel constantly creating new damage.

Read More Read Less

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Why are These Issues Commonly Seen in Chicago Steel Lintels?

Humidity, significant amounts of rainfall, and cold winters are the main culprits here. Keeping an eye on Your masonry walls will allow You to notice the signs of a failing steel lintel as they occur and can save You from spending a lot of money on more serious structural stability issues.

If Your wall becomes compromised, You may need to bring in a structural engineer to assist with restoration, raising the cost of the repair/replacement. In serious cases this is unavoidable.

Why are These Issues Commonly Seen in Chicago Steel Lintels?

If Your wall becomes compromised, You may need to bring in a structural engineer to assist with restoration, raising the cost of the repair/replacement. In serious cases this is unavoidable.

What are the signs of a bad steel lintel?

Bricks above the window or door appear to be deflected or wavy instead of laying straight and plumb.
Line cracks, step-cracks, and wall component cracks or position changes. This type of damage means the issue has become serious and besides the lintel replacement, often requires a complete rebuilding of the wall or the damaged section
Mortar cracks near the upper corners of doors, windows, and other openings.
Stones or brick above lintel protruding outward from the upper corners of the windows or doors.

Bricks above the window or door appear to be deflected or wavy instead of laying straight and plumb.

Mortar cracks near the upper corners of doors, windows, and other openings

Bricks above the window or door appear to be deflected or wavy instead of laying straight and plumb.

Stones or brick above lintel protruding outward from the upper corners of the windows or doors.

Line cracks, step-cracks, and wall component cracks or position changes. This type of damage means the issue has become serious and besides the lintel replacement, often requires a complete rebuilding of the wall or the damaged section

Good to Know

How is a Steel Lintel Replaced?

Remove brick/stone section above the window
Remove old steel lintel
Install new steel lintel,
Coat the new lintel with a rust inhibitor
Install new flashing system, install flashing membrane attached with termination bar to interior
wythe of masonry wall
Install aluminum drip edge
Install weep ropes/tubes
Reset brick section above new installed lintel with salvaged brick, or implement a new custom design
After the initial set, the mortar joints will be tooled and/or brushed to achieve the correct finish

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The Benefits of Replacing Your Failing Lintel

It Will Make Your Building Safer

A steel lintel plays a huge role in maintaining Your buildings structural integrity and keeping it in good condition is essential. A cracked, broken or expanded lintel will result in serious structural issues that can damage or destroy parts or Your building and injure bystanders or the people inside.

Increased Home or Building Value

Your property’s value is determined by its structural stability and visual beauty. Since a steel lintel is integral in maintaining structural integrity and adding visual appeal, it is important to make sure repairs are made as soon as they are required.

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How Much Does a Steel Lintel Replacement Cost?

Steel lintel replacement is priced per linear feet of the lintel replaced, this typically ranges between $240-$550/linear foot, and depends on;

Lintel location (the easier it is to access the lower the price will be)
Ornamental setup (lintels with brick above it will be less expensive than those with ornamental stone or terracotta)
Exposure to public ways such as city sidewalks (requires safety canopy installation)

To give You a better understanding of lintel repairs/replacements and pricing please refer to the examples below. These examples may have been completed within the last couple of years and are provided using current pricing and estimates rather than what they may have cost in the past. This is done to give You the best and most accurate idea possible.

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Good to Know

How is a Steel Lintel Replaced?

Remove brick/stone section above the window
Remove old steel lintel
Install new steel lintel,
Coat the new lintel with a rust inhibitor
Install new flashing system, install flashing membrane attached with termination bar to interior
wythe of masonry wall
Install aluminum drip edge
Install weep ropes/tubes
Reset brick section above new installed lintel with salvaged brick, or implement a new custom design
After the initial set, the mortar joints will be tooled and/or brushed to achieve the correct finish

Read More Read Less

The Benefits of Replacing Your Failing Lintel

It Will Make Your Building Safer

Increased Home or Building Value

Read More Read Less

How Much Does a Steel Lintel Replacement Cost?

Steel lintel replacement is priced per linear feet of the lintel replaced, this typically ranges between $240-$550/linear foot, and depends on;

Lintel location (the easier it is to access the lower the price will be)
Ornamental setup (lintels with brick above it will be less expensive than those with ornamental stone or terracotta)
Exposure to public ways such as city sidewalks (requires safety canopy installation)

Read More Read Less

Your Journey Starts Here

Explore Our Collaborative Process

Join hands with Jagra Masonry
for Your next project

Your Journey Starts Here

Explore Our Collaborative Process

Join hands with Jagra Masonry
for Your next project.

What Set’s Us Apart

Where Professionalism Meets
Personalized Service

What Set’s Us Apart

Where Professionalism Meets
Personalized Service

Premium Service

At Jagra Masonry, we pride ourselves on providing premium service. Our dedicated workers are committed to delivering consistent, high-quality work to our valued customers. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we strive to exceed Your expectations with every project.

Communication

When You choose Jagra Masonry, our dedication to quality ensures clear communication and transparent services, keeping You informed and at ease. We aim for outstanding results, always prioritizing Your satisfaction and keeping You well-informed throughout the process.

Fast Response Time

You can trust our service team to respond promptly to Your inquiries, ensuring Your needs are addressed quickly and effectively. We prioritize Your satisfaction and are committed to providing attentive support tailored to Your requirements.

Testimonials

Experience The Difference” Hear from
Satisfied Chicago Homeowners

Testimonials

Experience The Difference” Hear from
Satisfied Chicago Homeowners

Jagra Masonry & Tuckpointing

4.9

Based on 80 reviews

review us on

Andri Mile

02:46 05 Sep 24

Andrew Coates

14:23 29 Aug 24

Jagra gave us a thoughtful and thorough plan to remedy a badly deteriorated wall that was allowing water penetration. They worked incredibly hard and did a great job in difficult, hot weather while being respectful of the neighbor's property as well. Couldn't be more pleased and we will look to them for future work as well

Elizabeth Del Castillo

01:51 16 Aug 24

Very quick and professional. Great communication and reliable. I would definitely recommend this company. I will be using for all future brick work. Thanks for the fantastic work! Look at the before and after

Liz

18:07 12 Jul 24

Very profession and polite. Showed up on time for both the quoting of the job and doing the tuck pointing on the house. Great communication. Cleaned up after. Very happy with their worker.

David Komie

12:52 10 Jul 24

Jagra Masonry was an excellent choice for my tuck-pointing needs. They came out and gave a thorough estimate, and then were in frequent and close communication both before and after the job. They followed through on every aspect of the task, did the job in a professional, efficient way. I was thoroughly satisfied with the result.

Jean Johnson

16:08 09 Jul 24

Jagra Masonary completed the job at my home with professionalism. They worked diligently and with expertise. The job was completed on time. They cleaned up and left the site tidy. I'm completely satisfied with the work done!!!!

Bradley Gottloeb

23:23 02 Jul 24

Used Jagra to do some repair work on tuck pointing. They were the most responsive to my initial inquiry, the fastest to be able to schedule a time to come out and estimate, and their estimate was the most organized. It was easy to schedule the job once we agreed on the estimate and their work is great. We’ll be hiring them to tuck point our entire wall when it’s time. Highly recommend.

barbara coughlin

20:58 29 Jun 24

The chimney on our 1960 house had some crumbling bricks caused by water damage. Jacob gave us a quote to rebuild it and set up a date. On the scheduled date they arrived, set up all their equipment and got to work, cleaning up the area and causing no damage to our vegetable garden below. The mortar dried and today they returned to paint it ... good as new. Jacob communicated with us every step of the way. Great service + good workmanship. Very happy customers.

Joel Tabang

22:44 21 Jun 24

The work was done very well, and in a timely manner. Our inquiries were also answered very quickly.

Anastasia Belozertseva

17:02 21 Jun 24

We had a great experience with Jagra Masonry and would hands down use them again! We had an urgent repair involving rebuilding an CMU wall, and fixing a large crack in our garage, and we are so happy we moved forward with Jagra Masonry. Given the urgency, Jacob was able to come out and provide us with an estimate within a day or two of our first conversation. We received a few estimates, and Jagra’s was one of the most detailed one, outlining the full scope of work, and all the necessary information I needed for insurance purposes. I had a number of follow-up questions regarding the technique and materials used, and they were always very patient and gracious with me, explaining the process and answering all of my questions. We were able to schedule the project within the timeframe I was hoping for, and the crew was on time, professional, and respectful. They also went above and beyond for us in helping to pick out a garage utility door replacement, and arranging its pickup, even thought it’s not their area of expertise. We are very happy with the outcome and would highly recommend considering it for your next masonry project!

Chesly Manly

23:03 19 Jun 24

After receiving five bids, we selected Jagra Masonry to rebuild and waterproof two parapet walls and replace several lintels on an apartment building and we couldn't be more satisfied with the result. They provided a detailed estimate outlining exactly what work would be done. They were able to start the job quickly and complete the work promptly and neatly. The rebuilt parapet walls are now waterproof and the masons were able to clean and reuse much of the existing brick so you can hardly tell where the work was done. We would highly recommend Jagra Masonry for any parapet wall repair.

patrick koman

10:45 20 May 24

Not an inexpensive company to use. Not flawless either. The brickwork i had dine was impressive. The concrete work was very nice as well...but that crew made a few bad decisions. That said, after some chats, Jagra came back and made things right. I am now very happy with the job. They have helped me keep my 100+ year old house looking like it could go another hubdred.

Bill Canning

16:25 07 May 24

Jacob from Jagra tuckpointing was very quick to reply to me from setting up the estimate to completing the project. I am very happy with the work completed and his crew did a great job cleaning up also. I am very happy with their work and would recommend Jagra tuckpointing.

Laura Mantzoros

15:05 06 May 24

Jacob and his team were great to work with. Professional, responsive, detailed and thorough, efficient. They answered all of our questions and did a great job on repairing our 2004 8-unit condo building.

Robert Ballmaier

16:41 03 May 24

Working with JAGRA was an amazing experience. Jacob was prompt, professional and a great communicator. His crew repaired the chimney on my roof in one day. I can’t recommend hiring JAGRA enough.

Johnathan McDowell

20:31 25 Apr 24

JAGRA handled tuck-pointing for our 100+ year house. Their team of experts helped restore our bricks and clean up a project that had gone unchecked for far too long. They were quick, reliable and helped educate us along the way. Would recommend and will be using them again in the future.

Michael Yohanan

17:58 23 Apr 24

Thank you Jakub and Jagra crew for full 4 story historic brick building and garage restoration done in 3 weeks. We also did several lintel replacements. Jakub was super responsive to all questions and had the most comprehensive proposal compared to the 5 other companies I got bids from. They were the only company that immediately offered to use the correct mortar type for 1920s brick and the crew got a compliment from my neighbor for keeping the area so clean. Not the cheapest but also not the most expensive.

Trevor Wurtzebach

16:37 22 Apr 24

They did a great job for our tuckpoint project. Great overall experience from initial quote, scheduling the work, and final product.

Joe McMullen

16:02 22 Apr 24

Expert, efficient, professional, and exceptionally reasonable. I cannot recommend more highly.

Mickey G

00:17 28 Mar 24

Jagra Masonary & Tuckpointing CorpFrom the 1st call, you will know they are experienced and they will get the job done right.They provide an initial consultation,followed by a detailed proposal for recommended services and cost.(Lol....pictures are included for visual learners like myself)They are flexible with scheduling and manage all things needed to complete the job without any problems eg., permits.The customer service is OUTSTANDING, they communicate the job status and any new concerns or needed changes.The mason workers are VERY skilled, they set up 2 days before the start date, so that day one is productive.They quickly identify any problems so they can be addressed immediately.My neighbors even commented on the fact that the job site was neat and never dirty at the end of the day.My building required layers of work : (tuckpointing, replacement of lintels, flashingsystems, weep tubes plus a rebuild of a parapet wall), and ALL the work was completed on time as promised.I am so greatful...I paid attention to the work Jagra completed on another building in my neighborhood and I stopped and asked Jakub#1 for a card.Thank you Jakub#1 and Jacob#2 for answering ALL of my questions.Jagra Corp has exceeded my expectations.When doing my research, none of the other masonry contractors had 4 or 5 star reviews like Jagra...and now I know why.However, my review is 5 Stars plus+!Will be in touch..for my next project..CMG

Nefertiti Fulks

15:02 14 Mar 24

This review is long overdue! The work JAGRA Corp performed on my home years was amazing and still looks good til’ this day. I’ve vetted so many masonry professionals and decided JAGRA will be my best choice. They rebuild my chimney that was much needed. I’m not utilizing anyone else services for masonry work. Will be using them again for tuckpointing.

Joe Abella

01:25 25 Feb 24

They did the outside and inside of my 125 year old masonry foundation and I was happy with the results.

Anthony Winburn

23:24 14 Nov 23

Great service and great professionalism. I had a problem that I was discovered on the roof and wanted it taken care of before the snow. The service exceeded my expectations.

Jonathan McCaslin

17:46 13 Nov 23

Jakub and his team were very professional and helpful and have done the work requested to a very high standard. Will definitely use them again.

Felicia Hollie

20:34 10 Nov 23

I got stamped concrete for my front yard. This company is very professional. They answered all of my questions and responded in a timely manner. The communication was great. Satisfied with finished product.

Michael Alexander

22:27 07 Nov 23

Our 1920s Condo building was in need of masonry work due to water penetration. Jakub at Jagra was extremely helpful in guiding us through our options and working with our timeline because of the approval needed. In the end we got a parapet wall rebuild that looks great and kept the original look of the building. They do amazing work and feel confident that we made the right decision with Jagra after going through multiple bids. Thank you!

april lillstrom

18:54 30 Oct 23

We actually got 5 quotes from different companies for tuck pointing on our two flat (because it was a pretty big expense for us, and wanted to make sure we understood what work needed done) and we're really happy that we ended up going with Jagra. Jacob and Jacob are very responsive and easy to communicate with, and great about thoroughly answering questions. They checked with us at several points during the project to give us updates and ensure our satisfaction, and the team did a great job. I would recommend Jagra to anyone!

Stephen Shirk

19:20 17 Aug 23

Jagra Corp just completed a large brick replacement and tuck point project at my work/studio building in West Town It's an old flat roof brick bunker built in 1890 and modified for various uses over the coarse of its life. The goal of my project was to make the building solid and sound. Do to the mismatch of brick used over the years, beautification would take a backseat. Jacob was prompt with communication, providing clear explantations and estimates. They were able to start the project a few days earlier than originally planned and finish ahead of schedule as well. The foreman and crew were friendly and did great work. They cleaned up the building and surrounding area when the project was done. Even though I explained that this wasn't a beautification project, the building looks better than ever expected and now it is good to go for years to come. Thank you, Jacob! I will be calling you again for other masonry projects.

Julie Zeng

02:28 16 Jul 23

The stubborn leak we have had for many years was finally fixed thanks to Jagra. This is a very experienced team with in-depth construction knowledge. They are capable of solving more complex issues such as replacing beams above window and door openings. I first saw Jagra’s work on Instagram and decided to reach out. The owner personally came to my house to do initial valuation. It turned out that our water intrusion was caused by structural problems around the window and door openings. He gave us a reasonable quote and was able to fit us in within a couple of weeks. The crew showed up on time and did proper protection around the house before beginning the work. The bricks were first carefully taken out, an old rusty beam above the window opening was replaced, and old waterproof flashings were replaced. The crew was able to preserve and reuse the original bricks. They also did a great job cleaning up afterwards. We have had several large storms following the repair and no leaks! We are very happy with the quality of the service and the result. Great team to work with.

emma kaplan

22:01 20 Jun 23

Jacob and Jacob of Jagra Masonry did a fabulous job on our home. Jagra tuck pointed the front of our home, replaced two failed window lintels, and made spot repairs on the rest of the exterior. They were very patient with our multitude of questions, and explained what should be done in the near and long term (very helpful if you’re a new homeowner and are trying to prioritize!) The masons worked quickly and neatly to complete the job. We would absolutely recommend them.

Stefany Roman

18:05 14 Apr 23

I found Jagra Masonry on Instagram. I am so glad I did! I needed to redo the tuckpointing on my two flat rental property. I constantly found mortar on the floor and pieces of brick on the sidewalk. I knew it was time for maintenance. I contacted them to get a quote. Jakub was very professional walked me through the entire process of what the job was going to entail. He also made a couple of recommendations of redoing the front parapet wall because it was caving in due to years of deterioration. He also saw I was missing bricks towards the roof. Everything that we talked about in our initial walk through meeting was completed and exceeded my expectation. The workers were very clean after each work day. That's very important for me to keep my tenants and neighbors happy. They started and completed the job as on the promised date. I appreciate that Jakub followed up with me the day after the job was completed to make sure I was happy with their work. I will be using them in the near future for my other properties. Jagra Masonry did an exceptional job and I highly recommend!

More Services

More Services

Grinding & Tuckpointing

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Brick Restoration & Repair

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Chimney Repair & Rebuilding

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Lintel Replacement

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