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How Dales Fabrications is Helping Deliver the UK’s Next Generation of Social Homes
The UK government’s £39 billion Social and Affordable Homes Programme aims to deliver 300,000 new homes by 2036. For housing associations, local authorities, and registered providers, however, the challenge goes beyond delivery targets.
Evolving regulations, including updates to the Decent Homes Standard, the introduction of Awaab’s Law, and new requirements to proactively manage damp and mould are raising expectations for social housing throughout a home’s entire lifecycle, not just at handover. Meanwhile, Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) require rental homes to meet EPC Band C, where feasible, by 2030.
These changes are shifting focus toward long-term performance. The materials and systems specified at the design stage can have lasting effects. Choosing the right solutions early is crucial for creating homes that are durable, energy-efficient, and low-maintenance – while avoiding costly repairs in the future.
Aluminium in Social Housing
Aluminium is increasingly being specified across social housing projects due to its combination of durability, low maintenance requirements, and design flexibility.
Unlike timber or untreated steel, aluminium does not warp, rot, or corrode in typical UK conditions. This makes it particularly well-suited to applications exposed to the elements, where long-term reliability is essential. Its stability over time helps reduce the need for ongoing repairs – an important consideration for housing providers managing large portfolios. Additionally, its lightweight nature aids installation, making it safer, faster, and more efficient.
Practical Aluminium Solutions from Dales Fabrications
A range of aluminium systems can be integrated into social housing developments to support both durability and occupant comfort, with Dales Fabrications offering solutions across each of these key areas. These include:
- Eaves systems – protect roof edges and manage water runoff.
- Solar shading – reduce heat in homes, keeping residents comfortable and energy bills down.
- Rainscreen cladding panels – create modern, durable façades that are easy to maintain.
- Wall coping systems – protect parapets and exposed roof edges.
- Rainwater systems – gutters and downpipes designed to control runoff and reduce the risk of damp.
Dales Fabrications’ aluminium systems are available in standard sizes or can be customised to suit specific project requirements. An extensive range of colours and finishes – including RAL, BS, metallic, and anodised options – also helps specifiers meet aesthetic and planning requirements, as well as enhancing durability.
Each project is supported by a dedicated Dales Project Manager, with CAD drawings, BIM models, NBS specifications, and early-stage technical guidance provided to assist design integration. Dales also holds professional indemnity insurance of up to £5 million, offering added reassurance, and can support installation through its Preferred Installer network with supply-and-fix options.
Building Homes that Last
Social housing is judged not only at completion but over decades of use. Materials that can withstand environmental exposure, reduce maintenance demands, and support compliance with evolving regulations are essential.
Through its range of aluminium systems and technical support, Dales Fabrications helps housing providers and specifiers deliver homes that remain safe, dry, and efficient over the long term – supporting both residents and asset performance.
About Dales Fabrications
Founded in 1977, Dales Fabrications has nearly 50 years of experience designing and manufacturing aluminium building products. Operating from their factories in Ilkeston, Derbyshire, and holding ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 14001:2015 certification, they bring proven expertise to every project.
To explore Dales full product range or order their standard rainwater goods online, visit www.dales-eaves.co.uk.
Edward Street in Stockport provides 131 social and affordable homes – 63 for Affordable Rent and 68 for Social Rent. Dales contributed Weatherstruck Copings in RAL 7006 to the project, supporting the building’s modern and durable finish. Photography by Bowker Sadler. Photography by Bowker Sadler.
Acton Gardens in London is a mixed-tenure development delivering high-quality social housing. Dales supplied Round Contemporary Rainwater Pipes, Meridian Copings, and Balcony Soffit Cladding finished in Interpon YW255F Golden Beach and RAL 7016, enhancing both the appearance and longevity of the building. Photography by Adrian Toon.