Question

Which of the below is constructed above doors, windows?

(a) Joist

(b) Purlin

(c) Lintel

(d) Arch

The question was asked in an interview.

This is a very interesting question from Components of Building in chapter Building Construction of Basic Civil Engineering

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

(c) Lintel

Explanation: A lintel is a horizontal support beam placed above doors and windows to support the structure above it. It helps distribute the load from the upper part of the wall to the surrounding areas, ensuring the stability of the wall and preventing the opening from collapsing.

• Joist: These are horizontal members used in floors or ceilings to support beams.
• Purlin: These are horizontal beams used in roof construction to support the roof covering.
• Arch: An arch is a curved structure that spans an opening and is used to support weight above it, but it is not specifically placed above doors or windows in the same way a lintel is.

Therefore, lintel is the correct component placed above doors and windows.