What Is A GRP Door Canopy? Everything You Need to Know
If your front door canopy is starting to look tired, rotten, or simply past its best, you’re probably searching for a replacement that will last much longer and need less maintenance. One of the most popular options available today is the GRP door canopy.
But what exactly is GRP? Why is it so good for making canopies? And are there any downsides you should be aware of before choosing one?
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about GRP canopies and GRP porch canopies – from how they’re made to their benefits, drawbacks, and alternatives. By the end, you’ll feel confident enough to decide whether a GRP or composite canopy is the right choice for your home.
What Does GRP Mean?
GRP stands for Glass Reinforced Plastic. It’s sometimes also called fibreglass, though the two aren’t exactly the same. GRP is a strong and lightweight composite material made by combining fine strands of glass with plastic resin.
This combination creates a tough material that’s much stronger than standard plastic, but still light enough to be moulded into all sorts of shapes and finishes. It’s been used in many industries for decades – from boat hulls and car panels to roofing systems and, of course, door canopies.
The reason it works so well in these areas is simple: GRP is durable, weather-resistant, and doesn’t rot or rust like timber or steel.
Why Is GRP Used for Door Canopies?
When choosing a front door canopy, homeowners are usually looking for four main things:
A long-lasting material that can handle the British weather.
A smart, stylish look that adds kerb appeal.
A practical option that keeps the front entrance sheltered.
low-maintenance.
GRP canopies tick all of these boxes. Here’s why:
Weather resistance: GRP is naturally resistant to rain, frost, and UV rays, meaning it won’t warp, swell, or fade easily.
Lightweight strength: It’s strong enough to hold shape and resist damage but light enough to install without huge structural supports or lifting equipment.
Design flexibility: GRP can be moulded into a wide variety of shapes, including classic apex styles, flat canopies, and ornate porch designs.
These qualities make GRP porch canopies one of the go-to choices for replacing an old timber canopy that’s started to rot or sag.
The Benefits of GRP Door Canopies
If you’re considering a GRP canopy for your home, here are the main advantages that make them so appealing to homeowners:
1. Long-Lasting Durability
Unlike wood, which eventually rots, or steel, which can rust, GRP is naturally resistant to decay. It holds up well against the unpredictable UK weather. A well-made GRP canopy can last for decades with very little maintenance.
2. Low Maintenance
If you’ve had a timber canopy before, you’ll know the regular upkeep they demand. Sanding, painting and treating against rot. With GRP, that’s not necessary. A quick wash down with soapy water once or twice a year is usually all it needs.
3. Lightweight but Strong
GRP is much lighter than materials like stone or concrete, making it easier to handle and install. At the same time, it’s strong enough to resist cracks and everyday knocks. This balance of lightness and strength is one of the key reasons GRP is used for canopies.
4. Versatile Styles and Finishes
GRP can be moulded and coloured in a variety of ways. That means you’ll find GRP door canopies available in different finishes – from traditional tiled-look apex canopies to sleek flat styles. Many can even be colour-matched to blend in with your home’s exterior although it can be expensive.
5. Cost-Effective
Compared to other long-lasting materials like stone or aluminium, GRP tends to be more affordable while still offering excellent durability. For many homeowners, it provides the best balance between price, performance, and appearance.
6. Adds Kerb Appeal
A front door canopy isn’t just practical – it can also transform the look of your home. Because GRP canopies are available in so many designs, it’s easy to find one that enhances your property’s style and gives your entrance a fresh, welcoming appearance.
GRP vs Composite Canopies – Which Is Better?
If you’ve read this far, you’re probably convinced that GRP door canopies are a solid option. But it’s worth knowing there’s another choice: composite canopies.
Composite materials are similar to GRP in that they combine multiple elements for strength and durability. The difference is that modern composite canopies are often designed to be more eco-friendly, with improved finishes that look more natural.
Here’s a quick comparison:
Durability - GRP & Composite is equally as durable and can both last decades - Our composite canopies come with a 10 year manufacturers warranty.
Maintenance - both need next to no maintenance.
Appearance - They have a similar appearance with Composite looking slightly more natural
Eco-friendliness - GRP is extremely hard to recycle and made from plastic, Composite is also plastic based but is made from 80% recycled materials and is recyclable.
Price - GRP is normally quite cheap but composite is often equally as cheap or even less depending on size.
So, if you want a budget-friendly, low-maintenance, long-lasting canopy, GRP is an excellent choice. But if you’re after something that looks a bit more natural and eco-conscious, a composite canopy may be the better long-term investment.
Should You Buy a GRP Canopy?
If your main goal is to replace a rotten, old canopy with something that will last for decades without regular maintenance, then yes, a GRP canopy is a fantastic option. It offers excellent durability, is available in a wide range of styles, and won’t break the bank.
At Apex Canopies, we offer high-quality composite options, so whichever route you choose, you’ll be getting a canopy that’s designed to protect your home and improve its appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions About GRP Door Canopies
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A well-made GRP canopy can last several decades with minimal maintenance.
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No – unlike timber, GRP doesn’t need regular painting or treating. It usually comes with a protective gel coat finish that lasts for years.
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Yes, GRP canopies are versatile and can be fitted to most types of homes, including modern new builds and older properties.
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Just wash it down with soapy water and a soft sponge a couple of times a year. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could scratch the surface.
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For longevity and low maintenance, yes. Timber canopies look beautiful but require far more care and don’t last as long in the British climate.
Final Thoughts
A GRP door canopy is one of the most practical and cost-effective ways to update the entrance to your home. It’s tough, weather-resistant, low-maintenance, and available in styles to suit every property.
That said, if you’re looking for the most realistic finish or a more sustainable option, a composite canopy might be worth considering.
Either way, replacing your old, tired canopy with a modern GRP or composite canopy is a smart investment that will not only protect your doorway but also improve the look of your entire home.