TrueLite™ Lintels and Window Sills: Lightweight Solutions for Masonry Openings

Lintels and window sills are important components of concrete masonry unit (CMU) construction. Lintels provide structural support over window and door openings, while window sills form the base of masonry openings and can help direct water away from the wall. Selecting these components involves more than choosing the correct dimensions. Structural performance, code requirements, dimensional accuracy, component weight, and installation requirements can all influence product selection.

County Materials’ TrueLite™ Lintels and Window Sills are designed to address these considerations with a lightweight, precision-manufactured alternative for masonry construction. TrueLite Lintels provide structural support with minimal camber, while TrueLite Window Sills are available in face and flush styles to accommodate different masonry opening details. Both are manufactured to specified dimensions to support consistent fit and efficient installation.

What to Consider When Selecting Lintels and Window Sills

Selecting lintels and window sills requires consideration of both design requirements and construction conditions. Structural capacity, applicable codes, dimensional accuracy, component weight, and installation requirements can all affect how well a component performs within a masonry wall system.

Engineers typically evaluate factors such as opening dimensions, span, anticipated loads, material properties, and applicable design requirements. Contractors and masons may also consider component weight, handling requirements, placement, and dimensional consistency when planning installation. Considering these factors together can help project teams select components that meet design requirements while supporting efficient construction.

TrueLite Components:

• Lintels – Precast lintels span masonry openings and transfer loads to the surrounding wall. TrueLite Lintels are designed to provide structural support with minimal camber.
• Window Sills – Window sills form the base of masonry window openings and contribute to the finished appearance and water management of the opening. TrueLite Window Sills are available in face and flush styles to accommodate different masonry details.

TrueLite lintels ready for installation.

Weight and Installation Considerations

Component weight can influence transportation, handling, and placement at the job site. Heavier precast components may require additional manpower or lifting equipment, particularly around masonry openings or in areas with limited access.

At approximately 22 lbs. per lineal foot, TrueLite Lintels weigh nearly one-third less than a traditional residential lintel, which typically weighs about 33 lbs. per lineal foot. This lighter-weight design allows TrueLite components to be installed by two people without specialized lifting equipment, helping simplify handling and placement during masonry construction.

TrueLite lintels and window sills can be installed as part of a completed masonry wall system.

Dimensional Accuracy, Fit and Finish

Precise dimensions are important when lintels and window sills must align with surrounding masonry units. Consistent sizing can help support proper fit, maintain uniform joint lines, and minimize adjustments during installation. For projects with nonstandard opening dimensions, custom sizing can also help components align with project-specific requirements.

TrueLite components are manufactured to specified dimensions and are available in custom sizes. TrueLite Lintels are designed for rigidity and minimal camber, while Window Sills are available in both face and flush styles to accommodate different masonry opening details.

When components remain visible in the completed wall, finish can also influence the appearance of the opening. TrueLite Window Sills feature a smooth, clean finish and are available in grey to complement CMU construction.

Structural Design and Code Considerations

Structural performance is a primary consideration when selecting lintels for masonry openings. Engineers should evaluate opening dimensions, span, anticipated loads, bearing conditions, and applicable design requirements to determine the appropriate lintel for a project. Proper sizing and detailing are important for transferring loads through the masonry wall and maintaining the intended structural performance.

TrueLite Lintels are designed in accordance with applicable requirements of TMS 402/602-22 and ACI 318-22 and are certified under FPA Cert. No. FL 48018. These requirements and certifications provide a basis for evaluating structural performance and suitability for specific project conditions.

TrueLite offers custom sizing capabilities to accommodate project-specific opening dimensions and design requirements. Project teams should review applicable specifications and technical information when determining whether a particular lintel or sill configuration is appropriate for the intended application.

Applications for Residential and Commercial Construction

TrueLite Lintels and Window Sills can be used in masonry construction where openings require precast components designed for consistent fit and efficient installation. Common applications include window openings and patio overhangs, with component selection based on the opening dimensions, structural requirements, and project-specific conditions.

• Window openings – Lintels provide structural support above window openings, while window sills form the base of the opening and contribute to its finished appearance.
• Patio overhangs – TrueLite Lintels can provide support over masonry openings associated with patio and similar exterior openings.

Evaluating TrueLite for Masonry Openings

Selecting lintels and window sills requires balancing design requirements with the practical conditions of construction. Project teams should consider opening dimensions, span and loading requirements, applicable codes and specifications, component weight, installation conditions, and the desired finished appearance when evaluating precast components for masonry openings.

TrueLite Lintels and Window Sills provide a precast option for projects where these considerations must be addressed together. Reviewing product dimensions, technical information, and applicable design requirements early in the planning process can help engineers and contractors determine whether TrueLite is appropriate for a specific application.

For additional technical information, specifications, and product details, visit the TrueLite product page: https://www.countymaterials.com/masonry/true-lite