A lintel is a horizontal structural support that spans an opening in a wall or connects two vertical supports. It is typically utilized over windows and doors, both of which are weak places in the structure of a building. Lintels are often employed for load-bearing purposes, although they may also serve as ornamental elements. They can be made from wood, steel, or concrete. There are several types of lintels: blocking, beam, paneling, plank, and trimmer. Each type is used in certain situations but can be substituted for one another if necessary. Lintels can be used instead of beams or joists for adding strength to a floor frame or roof structure. They can also be used where space is limited such as under stairs or inside walls. The type of lintel used will determine how it is constructed. Lintels come in different shapes and sizes. They usually range in height from 12 inches to 60 inches and width varies depending on the application. For example, a beam lintel is generally wider than it is high while a trimmer lintel is relatively narrow compared to its height. The purpose of the lintel is to provide support for other elements above it so they do not collapse into the opening it covers. For example, if there were no lintel supporting a window frame, the window would fall out when the window pane was broken.