Lintel Options

Two angles can work, but I wouldn't put them in opposite sides of the wall. You'd end up with one on the exterior collecting water. I'd put a large angle on the interior to support the CMU and then take all the brick down, put in a traditional lintel, and rebuilt the brick over it. Needle beams could also be used, but on something that small I'm not sure how the economics would play out either way.

How will the wall and opening be finished? Might be some options that can be hidden within the finishes if there are any.

Take all the brick down? I can't imagine them doing that. The customer wants it to look nice. They are requesting stucco on the jambs.
I think I will just stick with the plate as it will likely look the best.

Catnic?




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I'm not sure if you have availability of these over in the states, but I would typically specify multiple 'box' lintels
Link

If you then need to pick up the outer leaf of masonry, a beam with a plate to the bottom would work on the outside.

I don't think we have access to those easily.

Didn't say it was a good idea...just an alternative to the I-Beam with a plate.

Not sure this is a good idea either, but use a flat steel plate, maybe 14 or 15 inches wide with steel angles supporting both sides. Weld the plate to each angle with intermittent fillet welds (I know, overhead welding sucks). Perhaps it's not necessary for the plate and angles to be connected if they're individually fastened to the masonry somehow.

I like that one. I'll present both to the owner/contractor and let them decide. Thanks!