Timber Lintel: In olden days of construction, Timber lintels were mostly used. But now a days they are replaced by several modern techniques, however in hilly areas these are using. The main disadvantages with timber are more cost and less durable and vulnerable to fire.
Stone Lintel: These are the most common type, especially where stone is abundantly available. The thickness of these are most important factor of its design. These are also provided over the openings in brick walls. Stone lintel is provided in the form of either one single piece or more than one piece.
Brick Lintel: These are used when the opening is less than 1m and lesser loads are acting. Its depth varies from 10 cm to 20 cm, depending up on the span.
Reinforced Brick Lintel: These are used when loads are heavy and span is greater than 1m. The depth of reinforced brick lintel should be equal to 10 cm or 15 cm or multiple of 10 cm.
Steel Lintel: These are used when the superimposed loads are heavy and openings are large. These consist of channel sections or rolled steel joists. We can use one single section or in combinations depending up on the requirement.
Reinforced Cement Concrete Lintel: At present, the lintel made of reinforced concrete are widely used to span the openings for doors, windows, etc. in a structure because of their strength, rigidity, fire resistance, economy and ease in construction.