Retrofitting Balcony Systems in 2025: What You Need to Know

Across the UK and Ireland, thousands of residential buildings are under review due to outdated or non-compliant external elements. For contractors, developers, and housing associations, retrofitting balcony systems with non-combustible solutions is essential. But what does a successful retrofit look like in 2025?

The rise in retrofit projects is being driven by a combination of regulatory reform, leaseholder pressure, and funding support for building safety upgrades. The introduction of the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) has placed a clear responsibility on dutyholders to ensure that all components of a building are fire safe. Timber decking, combustible soffits, and inadequate drainage systems are now being replaced with compliant materials.

In addition, media attention and resident concerns have increased scrutiny of high-rise residential buildings. This has pushed many landlords and managing agents to act, even in cases where funding has not yet been secured.

The new building safety framework mandates the removal of combustible materials from balconies on buildings over 11 metres. This includes timber decking and plastic-based composite boards, as well as any materials used in soffits or balustrades that do not meet Euroclass A1 or A2-s1,d0 ratings.

AliDeck aluminium systems meet this criteria across the board. Our decking, soffits, and balustrade systems are made from fire-rated aluminium and powder-coated in-house. This ensures complete system compliance and a consistent finish that meets modern building control expectations.

One of the key challenges with retrofitting is access. Many of these buildings remain fully occupied during works, which limits the ability to scaffold extensively or carry out invasive installation methods. AliDeck’s lightweight aluminium systems are ideal in these scenarios. They can be quickly transported and are designed for quick installation.

Another consideration is ensuring like-for-like replacement where possible, especially when dealing with planning restrictions. AliDeck offers a variety of colours and finishes to match existing aesthetics without compromising fire safety.

Retrofitting a live building demands meticulous planning. From noise management and resident communication to clear working zones, every detail needs to be considered. Our team supports main contractors with pre-installation advice, site visits, and ongoing technical support throughout the project.

Our modular systems are designed to work around existing structures. With options like surface-mounted or side-mounted brackets, AliDeck makes it possible to install compliant systems even where traditional retrofitting would be difficult.

AliDeck’s range includes:

• System 7 – ideal for remediation projects, which includes a full system from our Lite Board, Eco 30, and Adjustable Pedestals
• XL Decking Board – for large-spanning balcony surfaces
• AliClad Flow soffit and deck-level drainage system for integrated water management
• AliRail Insight glass and vertical bar balustrades for safe environments

Each product is designed to meet the specific needs of retrofit projects—lightweight, quick to install, and tested for performance under the latest regulations. Many of our systems are already in use on live retrofit projects across London, Birmingham, and Dublin.

We don’t just supply materials—we help ensure correct installation. Our support includes installation training, digital and print guides, and direct assistance on-site. In many cases, we’ll visit in person to assist with issues or provide installation support to subcontractors.

By offering this, we help contractors work more efficiently, reduce snagging issues, and ultimately deliver safer, more compliant projects.

Recent remediation schemes include:

• Edward De Vere Court, Hackney: Remediation of 11 balconies with our XL decking boards and AliClad Flow soffits
• Southsea Balcony Upgrade: Drainage and decking retrofit for a seaside development
• Aldwych House: Remediating two large terraces using our Supa Joist and System 9.

These projects demonstrate our ability to support retrofitting at scale while maintaining design continuity and resident satisfaction.

Whether you’re working on a single building or a multi-site framework, AliDeck’s retrofit solutions are designed for compliance, speed and reliability. We provide product guidance, testing data, and design assistance to make sure every stage runs smoothly.

Our in-house UK manufacturing and powder coating mean you’re not waiting on overseas deliveries, and our four-week lead time means faster starts and earlier completions.

Talk to the retrofit experts: 📧 info@alideck.co.uk
📞 01622 534050

Replace unsafe systems with confidence using AliDeck’s complete aluminium balcony solutions for retrofit and remediation.