Cost of Lintel Replacement in Chicago: Real Up-to-Date Pricing Guide
Cost of Lintel Replacement in Chicago: What Property Owners Need to Know
If you’ve noticed cracks above your windows or doors, it might be more than just age showing. Behind that brick wall could be a failing lintel—a hidden problem that, if left unresolved, can compromise your building’s structural integrity.
Replacing lintels isn’t just about maintaining appearances. It’s about keeping your structure safe, sound, and up to code. And when it comes to lintel replacement costs in Chicago, there’s more to the equation than just material.
Whether you're a homeowner, building manager, or someone planning their next project, this guide offers a clear, practical look at the real-world cost of lintel replacement in Chicago, plus insight drawn from industry experts and local experience.
What Is a Lintel, and Why Does It Matter?
A lintel is a vital part of your masonry structure. It’s the horizontal support system above a window or door—commonly made of steel, wood, concrete, or even ornamental stone in historic Chicago buildings.
In most brick buildings, steel lintels are the standard. They act as load-bearing members, transferring weight from the structure above to the sides of the opening. When a lintel begins to rust, bend, or fail, the brick wall above it can start sagging or cracking. That’s not just cosmetic—it’s a serious structural issue.
As Chicago lintel replacement contractors, we’ve seen step cracks, crumbling mortar, and bricks literally falling from above door lintels—all tied to one corroded steel beam. Scary stuff if ignored.
Common Signs You Need Lintel Replacement
So, how do you know if your window lintels or door lintels are due for replacement?
Look for these red flags:
Horizontal cracks above windows and doors
Bricks shifting or sagging downward
Rust stains bleeding through mortar or paint
Bowing in the surrounding area of a window or doorway
Gaps forming between the window frame and masonry
In some cases, visible damage means the lintel has already failed. In others, a thorough inspection can reveal deterioration just beginning. Either way, early action avoids additional repairs down the road.
What Affects the Cost of Lintel Replacement in Chicago?
The overall cost of replacing lintels depends on several variables. Here’s what typically influences lintel replacement costs in real-world projects:
Lintel location (ground floor, second story, etc.)
Type of material: steel lintel, wood lintel, or decorative/ornamental stone
Number of units being replaced (one lintel vs. multiple)
Required masonry repairs and tuckpointing around the opening
Accessibility (whether safety canopy installation is needed on city sidewalks)
Condition of the brick and whether any other components need replacement (like flashing)
Local labor costs, which vary seasonally and with demand
For example, replacing a steel lintel above a storefront requires safety canopy installation per Chicago building code if it overhangs public space. That can add several hundred dollars just in labor and permitting.
Average Cost of Lintel Replacement in Chicago
Let’s talk numbers—because we know that’s what you came for.
Based on market studies, labor statistics, and our own real-world projects, here’s what you can expect:
Window Lintel Replacement Cost (Single Unit, Residential)
Typically ranges: $800 – $2,500 per lintel
Depends on height, size of opening, and condition of the surrounding brick
Door Lintel or Multi-Unit Replacement
Typically ranges: $2,000 – $6,000+
Larger spans require heavier-duty steel lintel replacement, more labor, and may include steel beams or custom materials
Commercial or Ornamental Setup
Can exceed $8,000–$10,000+, especially when ornamental stone or custom decorative masonry is involved
Linear Foot Pricing (most Common)
Most projects are priced by length: expect $200–$600 per linear foot, depending on complexity
Of course, these are estimates. Every building is different, and the only way to get accurate pricing data is through an on-site inspection.
Additional Costs to Keep in Mind
Beyond the new lintel, other line items may factor into your quote:
Tuckpointing and masonry restoration in the surrounding brick
Matching historical finishes or mortar
Permitting fees, especially for commercial or multi-unit structures
Scaffolding or canopy setups for upper-level or public-facing work
While it’s tempting to delay repairs, replacing lintels early almost always costs less than rebuilding a failed wall later. One clear example of this among many, is when every year for four years we gave a quote to replace damaged lintels on a building in Lincoln Park, and each year the owner decided to not have them replaced. Until the 5th year, when the failed lintels caused a huge structural shift in the parapet wall, meaning that not only did the lintels have to be replaced, but now most of the parapet wall had to be rebuilt. This dramatically increased the cost of the project as you would expect.
If you take one thing away from this article, it’s to replace your lintels when it’s time to do so, because failed lintels are one of the core causes of further masonry damage on a building if left unchecked.
Can You DIY Lintel Replacement? (Short Answer: No)
Lintel work requires precision, support bracing, and deep understanding of structural integrity. Get it wrong, and the entire wall above could shift—or worse, collapse.
We do not recommend trying this as a DIY weekend project. You’ll need:
Correct masonry services experience
Understanding of building codes
Proper equipment and safety gear
Professional assessment of repair options
Hiring a licensed masonry contractor in Chicago means your lintel is replaced correctly, safely, and in a way that protects the long-term health of your structure.
Our Process: How Krisbud Construction Replaces Lintels
At Krisbud Construction, we follow a proven process that ensures clean, safe, and lasting results:
Inspection of the opening, surrounding masonry, and drainage path
Careful removal of affected bricks and the failing lintel
Installation of the new steel lintel, complete with proper flashing
Rebuilding of the masonry around the opening to match the original look
Final cleanup and walk-through to ensure full satisfaction
Whether you're restoring a historic brick building in Wicker Park or handling building maintenance on a three-flat in Lincoln Square, our team delivers precision and care every step of the way.
Need Lintel Work Done? Don’t Wait Until It Gets Worse
Regular inspections can help you spot problems early—but if you’re already seeing cracks, rust, or separation above a window or door, it’s time to act.
At Krisbud Construction, we specialize in lintel replacement in Chicago and all forms of masonry repair throughout the Chicago area. With decades of experience, fair pricing, and a deep understanding of local codes and materials, we’re the partner you can trust for your next project. If you’re curious about the cost of other masonry services, visit our article on the cost of tuckpointing in Chicago.
👉 Contact us today for a free estimate and let’s get your lintel—and your building—back in shape.