PROFESSIONAL MASONRY CONTRACTOR

Detroit Lintel Repair | Fix Cracks Above Windows & Doors

Lintels are the unseen supports that sit above your windows, doors, and garage openings—usually steel or angle iron in brick homes. When they start to rust, shift, or fail, the bricks above begin to crack, sag, or separate. It’s the kind of issue that creeps in slowly and then suddenly demands immediate attention.

At Detroit Brickwork Brigade, we specialize in catching lintel issues early and replacing failing supports with the right structural fix. Whether it’s a small window or a wide garage span, we handle the job from start to finish—careful removal, proper waterproofing, and seamless brick restoration once the new lintel is in place.

Most homeowners don’t notice their lintels until they fail. Our job is to make sure you never have to.

We work on homes of all ages—from century-old brick buildings in Midtown and Indian Village where moisture and rust have taken a toll, to newer homes in places like Ferndale or Royal Oak where bad flashing or poor installation caused early failure. Every job starts with a full inspection to determine whether the problem lies with the lintel itself or stems from drainage issues, settling, or surrounding brick movement.

Once we’ve diagnosed it, we remove the damaged area, install the correct support for the opening, and rebuild the brickwork above with precision and care. It’s technical work, and we don’t leave until it’s done right.

MASONRY CONTRACTOR IN DETROIT

professional work is guaranteed

How We Handle Structural Lintel Repair in Detroit

When it comes to structural repairs, there’s no room for guesswork. Lintel replacement has to be done with precision—and cutting corners only leads to bigger problems later on. That’s why we back every lintel job with a simple guarantee: the work will be done properly, or we’ll make it right.

We follow time-tested, industry-standard methods for removal, installation, and brick restoration—no shortcuts, no flimsy materials. We know what’s at stake when you’re trusting someone to open up a structural part of your home, and we take that responsibility seriously. You’ll know what we’re doing, why it matters, and what to expect when it’s done.

Replacing a lintel isn’t just swapping out a piece of steel. It takes planning, care, and the right tools to keep everything safe and secure—during and after the job. Here’s how we do it:

Inspection and Prep

We inspect the existing lintel and surrounding brickwork to understand what’s failing and why. Then we create a plan that ensures the structure stays supported throughout the process.

Support and Removal

Before anything comes out, we brace the structure to carry the weight. Then we remove the failing lintel and any surrounding bricks that have shifted, cracked, or absorbed moisture.

Installation and Sealing

We fit the new lintel—usually galvanized steel—with proper bearing on both sides. Flashing and sealants are added to keep moisture out and prevent future corrosion or movement.

Rebuilding and Cleanup

Once the lintel is set, we rebuild the brickwork around it to match your original façade as closely as possible. Then we clean up the site and leave it looking like we were never there.

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Expert & Professional

Years of hands-on masonry experience—done right the first time.

Satisfaction Guaranteed

We don’t stop until you’re happy. Simple as that.

High Quality Work

Built to last, with attention to detail in every brick.

LINTEL REPAIR AND LINTEL REPLACEMENT IN DETROIT

Why Are There Cracks Above My Windows and Doors?

Is Your Lintel Failing?

If you’re seeing stair-step cracks above windows or your garage, bricks starting to sag, or gaps forming in the mortar just above an opening, there’s a good chance your lintel is starting to fail. A lintel is the hidden steel support that carries the weight of the bricks above doors, windows, and garages. When it rusts, shifts, or starts to bend under pressure, the surrounding brickwork can crack, bulge, or collapse.

This kind of damage doesn’t happen overnight. You might see a small crack one season, a bigger one the next. Left alone, it turns from a cosmetic issue into a serious structural problem.

We specialize in identifying failing lintels early and replacing them with new ones that meet proper load and span specs for your home. Once installed, we rebuild the surrounding brickwork so it blends cleanly with the rest of the wall—no mismatched patches, no obvious scars.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a lintel, and why is it important?

A lintel is the horizontal support that sits above windows and doors in your brickwork. It carries the weight of the wall above and helps distribute that load evenly. In Detroit’s older homes, lintels can crack, rust, or deteriorate over time — leading to sagging walls and dangerous structural issues.

How do I know if my lintel needs repair?

Look for signs like cracked bricks above windows and doors, sagging masonry, or visible rust stains. These are often the first warnings that your lintel might be failing. If you notice any of these issues, it’s time to call a professional for an inspection.

Why is foundation repair important in Detroit?

Detroit’s soil can expand and contract with the freeze-thaw cycles, leading to foundation cracks and shifting. A damaged foundation can cause uneven floors, sticking doors and windows, and even structural instability. Early repairs can prevent bigger problems down the line.

What are the signs of foundation problems?

Keep an eye out for cracks in the walls or foundation, doors or windows that won’t close properly, or gaps between walls and ceilings. These are common indicators that your foundation might need attention.

How much does lintel or foundation repair cost in Detroit?

Costs vary depending on the extent of the damage and the type of repair needed. Lintel repairs are usually more affordable than full foundation work, but both are crucial investments in your home’s safety and value. We always provide free, no-obligation estimates.

Can I fix lintel or foundation issues myself?

Lintel and foundation repairs require specialized tools and expertise. DIY repairs often make the problem worse and can lead to costly damage. It’s always best to hire a professional who understands Detroit’s unique soil and weather conditions.

How long does it take to repair a lintel or foundation in Detroit?

Most lintel repairs can be completed in a day or two. Foundation repairs might take longer, depending on the severity of the problem. We’ll provide a clear timeline and keep you informed throughout the process.

MASONRY CONTRACTOR IN DETROIT

Signs Your Foundation May Be Shifting

Most people don’t think about foundation issues until they start seeing cracks—but by then, the damage is already underway. If you know what to look for, you can catch foundation movement early and prevent it from turning into a major structural problem.

Here are the most common warning signs in brick homes:

Stair-step cracks running through brick or mortar
Horizontal cracks near the base of the wall
Bricks pulling apart near corners or window frames
Doors and windows sticking or no longer closing properly
Gaps forming between walls and ceilings or floors
Uneven floors or visible sloping in parts of the home

If you’re noticing any of these around your home, don’t wait. These issues don’t go away on their own, and Detroit’s freeze-thaw cycles and shifting soil only make them worse with time.

We’ll inspect the affected areas, explain exactly what’s going on, and walk you through your options. Whether the repair is something we can handle directly or requires a structural contractor, we’ll give you honest guidance and help you protect your home.

STEEL LINTEL REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT IN DETROIT

Ready to Fix It Right?

Lintel repair isn’t something to delay. The longer you wait, the more pressure builds on the surrounding brickwork—and the more costly the fix becomes. If you’re seeing cracks, sagging, or anything that looks off above your windows or doors, it’s worth getting it checked out.

We’ll take a look, give you a straight answer, and put together a repair plan that’s solid, lasting, and done right the first time.