This type of canopy is available in many different styles, the most popular being sloped, casement (like a sloped canopy, but with a flat section at the top), convex, rounded, gabled and dome. They can cover just a small area above the entrance way, or extend several yards outwards from the building.
Whilst they are generally covered with vinyl or canvas materials, rigid glazed entrance canopies are another option and are especially useful where you need the canopy to provide shelter from the elements.
Most entrance canopies are designed to fit a specific requirement and are therefore made to measure by specialist suppliers. Make sure the work is carried out by professionals and you should ask to see references or samples of work the company has done. Selecting a firm which is a member of PAMA (the Professional Awning Manufacturers Association) is a good idea.
A canvas-type canopy should last a bare minimum of 5 years, normally considerably more. This of course depends a great deal on climatic conditions. Other than regular cleaning, they shouldn’t require any maintenance.