About Our Door Canopies 🚪
Door canopies do more than keep the rain off when you're hunting for your keys. They protect your front door from weather damage, stop puddles forming at your doorstep, and instantly boost your home's kerb appeal. Our collection ranges from modern polycarbonate designs with clean lines to traditional GRP canopies that complement period properties. Each model features 6mm polycarbonate panels offering 100% UV protection, polymer frames rated to withstand 75mph winds, and weatherproof construction that lasts for years.
We stock over door canopies, door canopy kits for DIY installation, and metal door canopies built for commercial use. Every order includes free UK delivery, and all models come with a 3-year warranty as standard. You'll find canopies starting from £69 for compact entrance shelters, scaling up to £3,300 for premium commercial installations with extended coverage.
Key Features That Matter
☔ Weather Protection
6mm impact-resistant polycarbonate blocks 100% of harmful UV rays while letting natural light through. The sealed edge design prevents water ingress, even during heavy downpours.
🏗️ Built to Last
Polymer frames resist rust, rot, and discolouration better than traditional materials. Wind load testing confirms stability up to 75mph gusts—critical for exposed front entrances in UK weather.
🔧 Simple Installation
Our door canopy kits arrive with pre-drilled mounting holes, stainless steel fixings, and full instructions. Most homeowners complete installation in 2-3 hours with basic DIY skills.
🧹 Low Maintenance
Unlike wooden porch canopies that need annual treatment, these designs need only occasional cleaning with soapy water. No painting, no staining, no rot to worry about.
🎨 Style Flexibility
Choose from modern flat designs, traditional apex shapes, or classic curved profiles. Available widths from 900mm to 3000mm suit any entrance size.
Choosing Your Door Canopy
Start by measuring your door width, then add 150-200mm on each side for proper coverage. A standard 900mm door works well with a 1200mm canopy, while double doors need 1800-2000mm widths. Consider height clearance too—you need at least 50mm above your door frame for mounting brackets.
Budget between £69 for basic porch canopy models covering small entrances, up to £3,300 for extended commercial canopies with custom dimensions. Most homeowners spend £150-£400 for quality protection that lasts a decade or more. If you're planning a larger outdoor project, browse our Sheds or Summerhouses collections for weather-resistant buildings, or explore our Modern Garden Rooms range for year-round outdoor living spaces.
Material Comparison: Making the Right Choice
🛡️ Polycarbonate Canopies
Weigh just 3-5kg for standard sizes, making them perfect for DIY fitting without help. The clear panels transmit 85-90% of natural light, keeping entrances bright while blocking rain. They maintain clarity for 12-15 years before showing any yellowing. Clean them twice yearly with warm soapy water—no special products needed.
⚙️ Metal Door Canopies
Use powder-coated aluminium or steel frames that never rust when properly finished. They handle snow loading better than lighter materials, important for northern regions. Expect 25-30 years of service with minimal maintenance. The solid construction makes them ideal for commercial premises or exposed rural locations.
🏛️ GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic)
Replicate traditional lead or tile effects without the weight or cost. They suit conservation areas where planning restrictions apply. The moulded construction means no visible joints or seams. GRP resists impact damage better than polycarbonate but weighs 30-40% more, so check your wall can support the load.
DIY Installation Made Simple
Our door canopy kits contain everything you need: pre-drilled brackets, stainless steel screws, wall plugs, and illustrated instructions. You'll need a drill, spirit level, and ladder—tools most homeowners already own.
- Step 1: Mark your fixing points using the supplied template. Check for hidden pipes or cables with a detector before drilling.
- Step 2: Drill holes using a 10mm masonry bit, insert wall plugs, and fix the mounting brackets. Use a spirit level to ensure they're perfectly horizontal.
- Step 3: Clip or bolt the canopy frame onto the brackets, then secure the polycarbonate panels into their channels. The entire process takes 90-120 minutes for first-time installers.
Most installations require no planning permission as they fall under permitted development. However, if you live in a listed building or conservation area, check with your local authority first.
Matching Your Canopy to Your Home
Modern Homes suit flat or gently curved canopies with clear polycarbonate and minimal framework. Look for designs with concealed fixings and clean lines that complement contemporary architecture. Metal door canopies in anthracite grey or matte black create a striking finish against render or brick.
Traditional Properties benefit from apex or curved GRP designs that echo original architectural details. Choose slate-effect or tile-effect finishes that blend with existing roofing materials. Wider eaves (120-150mm projection) add period authenticity while providing better rain protection.
Commercial Buildings need heavy-duty construction rated for high footfall and extreme weather. Our commercial-grade canopies feature reinforced frames, impact-resistant panels up to 10mm thick, and extended warranties covering intensive use.
📏 How to Measure for Your Door Canopy
Step 1: Measure Door Width – Use a tape measure to record the exact width of your door frame from outer edge to outer edge. Write this measurement down.
Step 2: Add Side Clearance – Add 150-200mm to each side (300-400mm total) to prevent rain blowing onto your threshold. For a 900mm door, order a minimum 1200mm canopy.
Step 3: Check Height Clearance – Measure from the top of your door frame to any soffit, window, or obstruction above. You need 50mm minimum clearance for mounting brackets, plus the canopy's projection depth.
Most suppliers show projection depth in their specifications—this is how far the canopy extends from your wall. Standard projections range from 600mm to 1200mm.
For customers adding outdoor entertaining spaces, our Insulated Garden Rooms provide year-round comfort, while Corner Garden Rooms maximize awkward plot shapes. Those seeking wellness solutions should explore our Home Saunas collection.
Frequently Asked Questions about Door Canopies
-
Do I need planning permission for a door canopy?
Most door canopies fall under permitted development rights and need no planning permission. They must not project more than 150mm beyond your property boundary, and total coverage must not exceed 50% of your original property's footprint. Listed buildings and conservation areas have stricter rules—always check with your local planning authority before ordering. Canopies attached to flats or maisonettes often require permission regardless of size.
-
How do I clean and maintain my polycarbonate door canopy?
Clean your polycarbonate canopy twice yearly using warm water mixed with mild washing-up liquid and a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse thoroughly to remove soap residue, which attracts dirt. Never use abrasive cleaners, solvents, or pressure washers as these damage the UV-protective coating. Remove leaves and debris from the top surface every few months to prevent staining.
-
Are door canopies weatherproof in UK conditions?
Yes, when properly installed. Our canopies feature 6mm polycarbonate rated to withstand impacts, 75mph wind loading, and temperatures from -40°C to +120°C. The sealed panel edges prevent water penetration during storms. However, no canopy eliminates all wind-driven rain—expect some moisture during severe weather with horizontal rain. For maximum protection, choose models with side panels or deeper projections.
-
How much does a quality door canopy cost?
Entry-level porch canopy kits start from £69 for compact 900mm widths suitable for back doors or single entrances. Mid-range models covering standard front doors cost £150-£400 depending on width and features. Premium commercial canopies with extended coverage reach £3,300. Budget around £200-£300 for a quality residential canopy that lasts 15-20 years.
-
Can I install a door canopy myself or do I need a professional?
Most homeowners can fit our door canopy kits themselves if they're comfortable using a drill and ladder. The process takes 90-120 minutes. You'll need a masonry drill bit, spirit level, tape measure, and safety equipment. If you're uncertain about drilling into your wall type, or if your property has unusual construction, we recommend professional installation. Call 0800 098 8877 to discuss your specific situation.
-
What's the difference between polycarbonate and GRP door canopies?
Polycarbonate canopies use clear or tinted plastic panels that transmit 85-90% of natural light, keeping entrances bright. They weigh 3-5kg for standard sizes, making DIY installation straightforward. GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) canopies feature opaque, moulded construction replicating traditional lead or tile effects. They suit period properties but weigh 30-40% more than polycarbonate equivalents. Both materials resist weather damage excellently.
✅ Ready to Protect Your Entrance?
Browse our complete range of over door canopies above, from compact entrance shelters to extended commercial models. Every canopy includes free UK delivery and our 3-year warranty as standard. Need expert advice on sizing, materials, or installation? Call our team on 0800 098 8877 or email sales@greenhousestores.co.uk—we're here to help you find the perfect weather protection solution.