A crack in the bricks at the top of a doorway or window usually indicates what?

A crack in the bricks at the top of a doorway or window often suggests that there is a structural issue related to the load-bearing capabilities of the opening. Specifically, it typically indicates that a lintel, which is the horizontal support beam placed above doors and windows to bear the weight of the wall above, may be missing or damaged.

When a lintel is not properly integrated or has deteriorated, it can fail to adequately support the weight above, leading to cracking in the masonry below. This phenomenon results from the downward pressure that the wall exerts, which can cause bricks to shift and crack if they lack proper support. Understanding this relationship helps in identifying potential weaknesses in building structures and ensuring that they are correctly managed to avoid further damage.