A portico is more than just a porch; it's a statement. It's the architectural flourish that adds grandeur, character, and a welcoming focal point to any property. While traditional materials like stone and timber have their charm, Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP), also known as fibreglass, has emerged as a superior choice for modern porticos. GRP offers the classic look of traditional materials with the modern benefits of durability, low maintenance, and ease of installation that make it an increasingly popular option for homeowners looking to enhance their home's curb appeal.
But with so many styles, sizes, and considerations, how do you choose the best GRP portico for your home? This complete guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from the benefits of GRP to practical installation tips, and crucial dos and don'ts.
Why GRP? The Unbeatable Benefits
Before diving into the specifics of choosing a portico, let's understand why GRP is such a fantastic material for this application:
• Durability and Longevity: GRP is incredibly strong, weather-resistant, and won't rot, warp, or crack like timber. It's impervious to moisture, insects, and UV degradation, meaning it will retain its pristine appearance for years to come with minimal fuss.
• Low Maintenance: Say goodbye to endless sanding, painting, and sealing! GRP porticos require virtually no maintenance beyond occasional cleaning with a mild, ammonia-free detergent solution.
• Lightweight and Easy to Install: Unlike heavy stone or concrete porticos that require extensive structural support and specialist lifting equipment, GRP is remarkably lightweight. This makes for easier, quicker, and often more cost-effective installation. It also means GRP porticos can often be retrofitted to existing properties without major structural alterations.
• Versatility in Design: GRP can be moulded into an incredible array of shapes, sizes, and designs, replicating the intricate details of traditional architecture. You can choose from various column styles (plain, fluted, round, square), roof profiles (apex, lean-to or flat), and a wide range of colours and finishes, including lead-look upstands.
• Cost-Effective: While the initial outlay might be comparable to some other materials, the long-term savings on maintenance and the ease of installation make GRP a more cost-effective solution in the long run.
Choosing Your GRP Portico: Key Considerations
1. Style and Aesthetics
The portico should complement your home's architectural style and enhance its overall aesthetic. That doesn’t necessarily mean that you can’t chose a traditional design for a modern home or vice versa. While this is the most obvious choice you can also mix them if this achieves the look you want.
• Traditional vs. Modern: Do you have a period property (Georgian, Victorian, Edwardian) that would benefit from a classic, ornate design with fluted columns and a grand apex roof? Or does your modern home call for a sleeker, simpler design with clean lines. Perhaps you want to add more modern colours like Anthracite grey or Black.
• Column Design: GRP columns come in various styles. Plain columns offer a minimalist look, while fluted columns add a touch of classical elegance. You can also consider if you prefer round or square shafts.
• Roof Profile: Apex (pitched) roofs are more common for traditional styles, while flat or lean-to roofs can also suit more contemporary designs.
• Colour and Finish: Most GRP porticos are available in a range of colours, including shades of white, oak, and mahogany. More modern Anthracite grey and black are also available. You can also mic colours e.g a portico with the soffit and columns in white and a grey top and upstand to replicate traditional roof finishes and flashing. The wide range allows you to choose a colour that harmonises with your existing windows, doors, and brickwork.
2. Size and Proportion
Getting the dimensions right is crucial for a balanced and visually appealing portico. You also need to take into account any obstacles or limitations that may be in place.
• Portico Width: Take into account the width of your doorway itself and the surrounding wall / brickwork. The portico soffit should as a minimum be wide enough to cover your doorway and include the size of the columns which will sit beneath it. Look out for recesses or protrusions in the surround which may interfere with fixing and any obstructions like pipes or wires that may need to be avoided or moved. You will also take into account the surface below that it will sit on. You need a flat and level hardstanding structural base which again is big enough to sit the column atop. Once these elements are considered you can choose the size you want based upon adequate shelter and the sense of grandeur you are looking for.
• Depth or projection: Once again you must consider the base the portico columns will sit atop ensuring you have room for them. Then you can again think about how much projection you need for shelter and aesthetic balance.
• Height: Consider the height of your doorway and any architectural features above it. The portico's soffit (underside of the roof) should sit at an appropriate height, typically level with or just above the door head. Make sure you a big enough area above to cover the depth of the soffit and roof.
3. Structural Requirements
While GRP is lightweight, the portico still needs to be securely installed.
• Load-Bearing vs. Decorative: Some GRP columns are purely decorative, while others are designed to work within the sizes of the soffits and can happily accommodate them without further support.
• Wall Construction: Ensure the wall your portico will be attached to is in good sound order and condition. Its type e.g. brick, block etc will influence the choice of fixings you will use.
• Installer Expertise: While GRP canopies are designed for DIY installation, an experienced fitter will be used to working with that material and ideally have knowledge and expertise to fit a Portico with columns more quickly and to a high standard.
4. Drainage
Drainage consideration is essential to prevent water pooling and protect your property.
• Integrated Gutters: Some portico designs feature integrated gutters that discharge rainwater along the eaves beam and down the columns.
• Pitch of the Roof: Even flat-looking GRP roofs will have a slight pitch to ensure water run-off. Discuss drainage solutions with your supplier or installer.
5. Budget
GRP porticos are generally more affordable than their stone counterparts, but prices can vary based on size, complexity of design, and manufacturer. Get quotes from reputable suppliers and check what's included in the price (installation, delivery, warranty, etc.).
Do's and Don'ts for Choosing and Installing a GRP Portico
To ensure a successful project, keep these dos and don'ts in mind:
Do's:
• Do measure accurately: Precise measurements of your doorway and desired projection are essential for a perfect fit.
• Do consider your home's architecture: Choose a style that complements your property, not clashes with it.
• Do choose a reputable supplier and installer: Look for positive reviews about their service, this is a good measure of how helpful they will be if help or advice are needed. Check that you get a warranty.
• Check lead times: custom colours or sizes make take longer to manufacture. Check delivery to your area as more remote locations can also add to lead times.
• Do understand the installation process: Even if you're hiring professionals, knowing the steps involved will help you ask informed questions. Your supplier should have detailed assembly instructions for the portico.
• Do ensure proper storage: If you're receiving the portico before installation, store it flat, protected from wind and moisture, and avoid stacking heavy items on top.
• Do clean regularly: A simple wash with mild detergent will keep your GRP portico looking its best.
Don'ts:
• Don't underestimate the impact of proportion: A portico that's too small will look insignificant, while one that's too large can overwhelm your home.
• Don't compromise on quality: Investing in a high-quality GRP portico from a reputable manufacturer will ensure longevity and performance.
• Don't attempt complex installations yourself unless you are a good DIYer: GRP porticos require specific fixing techniques to ensure stability and watertightness. Check the installation instructions for a product if you are in doubt.
• Don't use abrasive cleaners: These can scratch or damage the GRP surface.
• Don't forget about local planning regulations: While most porticos fall under permitted development, it's always wise to check with your local council, especially for larger or more complex designs, or if your property is listed.
Practical Considerations for Installation
Even if you're not installing it yourself, understanding these practicalities can help you work with your chosen professional:
• Site Safety: Installation involves working at height and with potentially heavy (though manageable) components. Ensure your chosen installer prioritises site safety.
• Fixings: The type of fixings used will depend on the weight of the portico and the wall construction. Reputable installers will use appropriate, high-quality fixings to ensure secure attachment. Some suppliers offer fixings with their porticos which are ideal for certain surfaces i.e brick, block etc.
• Sealing: Proper mastic sealing around the flashing upstand where the portico meets the wall is crucial for preventing water ingress.
• Lead Flashing (optional): For a traditional look, lead flashing can be used over the GRP upstand where it meets the wall, further enhancing weatherproofing and aesthetics.
Conclusion
A GRP portico is a worthwhile investment that can transform the entrance of your home, adding elegance, architectural interest, and practical shelter. By carefully considering style, size, structural requirements, and partnering with a reputable supplier and installer, you can ensure your new GRP portico becomes a beautiful and enduring feature that enhances your property for years to come.