Business Details
Expert Metal Roofing & Cladding Specialists
Established in 1877, D Blake has evolved from its origins as a plumbing contractor to become a specialist in architectural cladding and restoration of lead, copper, zinc, and stainless/galvanised steel. Our expertise spans prestigious projects across Scotland, including Holyrood Palace, Edinburgh Castle, and Edinburgh and Glasgow Universities. We deliver high-quality supply and installation services for metal roofing, working as main or subcontractors while offering technical guidance.As a founder member of the Lead Contractors Association (LCA), we uphold British Standards and provide a 25-year guarantee on work using recognised details. Our loyal client base reflects our commitment to excellence in both traditional and contemporary metalwork applications.
Services
Leadwork
Metal Roofing
Cladding
Ornamental Metalwork
Restoration
Zinc Installations
Copper Roofing
Stainless Steel Cladding
Galvanised Steel Solutions
Traditional Metal Fabrication
Highlights and features
- We have over 140 years of experience in metalwork and restoration
- Our team specialises in historic building conservation projects
- We offer technical guidance on metal roofing compliance
- LCA membership ensures 25-year guarantees on approved work
- Proven track record with prestigious Scottish landmarks
Associations and certifications
- Lead Contractors Association (LCA)
- Scottish and Northern Irish Plumbing Employers Federation (SNIPEF)
Services
Leadwork
Specialist leadwork installations and restorations to British Standards. We supply and install rolled lead sheet (BS 12588:2002) for roofing and cladding. Our LCA membership ensures 25-year guarantees when using approved details. Projects include historic buildings like Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace.
Metal Roofing
Comprehensive metal roofing solutions using copper, zinc, and stainless/galvanised steel. We employ traditional and modern long-strip profiling methods for contemporary designs. Our expertise covers both heritage restorations and new-build applications across commercial and residential sectors.
Cladding
Architectural cladding installations in lead, copper, zinc, and steel. We create weatherproof envelopes with traditional craftsmanship and modern profiling techniques. Projects include prestigious developments like Bank of Scotland HQ and Edinburgh College of Art.
Ornamental Metalwork
Restoration and fabrication of ornamental lead and copper features. We recreate historic hopper heads, finials, and mouldings using original patterns or drawings. Completed projects include decorative elements at Borthwick Castle and Perth Congregational Church.
Restoration
Specialist restoration services for historic metal structures. We maintain original design integrity while applying modern techniques. Notable restorations include Edinburgh Castle, Drumlanrig Castle, and McManus Galleries in Dundee.
People
Malcolm Thomson
Managing Director
With over 30 years in architectural metalwork, Malcolm oversees project delivery and quality assurance. He ensures traditional craftsmanship meets modern standards across all restoration projects.
Isabel Waddell
Director
Isabel manages client relations and business development. Her expertise in heritage conservation helps maintain D Blake's reputation for excellence in Scotland's historic building sector.
Questions
What materials do you work with?
We specialise in lead, copper, zinc, and stainless/galvanised steel for roofing, cladding, and ornamental applications.
Do you handle both new installations and restoration work?
Yes, we provide new metal roofing systems and heritage restoration services for historic buildings.
Are you accredited for leadwork projects?
As a founder LCA member, we offer 25-year guarantees on approved leadwork installations.
Which areas do you cover?
We operate throughout Scotland, from Orkney to the Borders, with nationwide capabilities.
Can you replicate ornamental metal features?
Yes, we restore or recreate lead and copper decorative elements from original patterns or drawings.
