When buying a new carport or canopy for your home, you need to feel confident that it will perform well over time, made with materials that will withstand UK weather conditions.
The most popular roofing materials for domestic carport or canopies are GRP, polycarbonate and glass. Do you know which one will work best for your home and garden?

To help you make the best choice, here is our round up of the three materials, and the pros and cons that go with each.

G.R.P (Glass Reinforced Plastic)

Commonly known as GRP or F.R.P, (Fibre Reinforced Plastic), this is a combination of glass fibres within a polyester resin matrix. This mixture produces a composite that is tough without being brittle.

Advantages:

  • Versatility.
  • It has a similar appearance to glass.
  • GRP can be translucent or opaque depending on your requirements, plus it also available in a multitude of colours.
  • When covered with a UV stabilized layer it will provide UV protection to the people and belongings underneath.

Disadvantages:

  • Over time, sunlight can cause clear GRP roofs to discolour, and coloured panels to fade.
  • The same conditions will eventually lead to a deterioration of the GRP.
  • A GRP roof has a lower resistance to impact than a polycarbonate roof.
  • It has a shorter life span than some other options – lasting approximately 10 years.
  • The surface of this material can be rough, making it difficult to clean.
  • GRP requires more regular routine maintenance than other roofing materials.

Glass

A canopy or carport made from toughened glass is a stylish addition to any domestic property, whatever the period of your home.

Advantages:

  • Good acoustic properties, a glass roof will produce less noise during heavy rainfall.
  • Glass gives a clean, polished finish with an attractive appearance.
  • The roof panels will be completely clear – perfect for stargazing and bird watching.

Disadvantages:

  • Glass is a slightly more expensive option.
  • It can be a safety risk if the panels are not high quality, toughened glass from a reputable supplier.
  • Glass offers little or no UV protection. However, it can be fitted with a UV filter upon request.

Polycarbonate

Polycarbonate (PC) plastic is a naturally transparent thermoplastic that allows light to pass through almost as effectively as glass. It is also tough and highly resistant to impact.

Advantages:

  • As stated, PC has a high impact resistance, making it virtually unbreakable
  • PC can be translucent, opal or tinted.
  • It has a life expectancy of up to 25 years.
  • Many varieties of polycarbonate are co-extruded (manufactured) with a UV filter.
  • It is very cost effective and offers excellent structural performance.
  • It will maintain its strength and clean appearance over a long period.
  • Polycarbonate is self-extinguishing once the source of a fire is removed, and it will not promote fire or assist in the spread of a fire.
  • Low heat transmission properties ensure that the area underneath remains cool in hot sunny weather.

Disadvantages:

  • Unlike glass, you will not have a clear view of the sky, unless you choose solid polycarbonate that is clear.
  • A polycarbonate roof will resonate during downpours and can become quite noisy.