Which masonry element is placed above doors and windows to carry loads?

• A. Arch
• B. Lintel
• C. Sill
• D. Beam

Answer: (B)

The horizontal member that spans over a door or window to carry the wall’s weight is called a lintel. It sits directly above the opening and transfers the load from above to the sides, into the surrounding wall or jambs. Lintels can be made from stone, brick, steel, or reinforced concrete, and they’re sized to handle the span and loads involved.

An arch is another way to span an opening, but it works by compressive forces through wedge-shaped pieces, which is a different method from a straight lintel. The sill sits at the bottom of the opening and doesn’t carry loads from above; it’s mainly for finishing and weather protection. A beam is a general term for a load-bearing member, but the specific term used for the load-carrying piece directly over doors and windows in masonry is lintel.