<P> A lintel or lintol is a structural horizontal block that spans the space or opening between two vertical supports . It can be a decorative architectural element, or a combined ornamented structural item . It is often found over portals, doors, windows and fireplaces . Modern day lintels are made using prestressed concrete and are also referred to as beams in beam and block slabs or ribs in rib and block slabs . These prestressed concrete lintels and blocks are components that are packed together and propped to form a suspended floor concrete slab . </P> <P> In worldwide architecture of different eras and many cultures, a lintel has been an element of post and lintel construction . Many different building materials have been used for lintels . </P>

What is the beam above a door called