FAQ’s

Bloc offer friendly professional advice and will tell you all you need to know before you make that all important purchase
How to cool
For UK homeowners, cooling down a patio in summer can be achieved with aluminium awnings, retractable patio covers, or pergola awnings that provide shade and allow airflow. Awnings with UV-rated fabrics block heat effectively while still letting in natural light. Pairing a waterproof awning with potted plants or a water feature creates a cooler microclimate, and light-coloured paving helps reflect heat.
Add shade to my backyard
Popular UK backyard shade solutions include patio awnings UK, semi-cassette awnings for flexible coverage, and open awnings for budget-friendly shade. You could also consider a patio roof, outdoor canopy, or a retractable awning UK to create a covered outdoor area. For smaller spaces, a fixed awning or window awning can target specific sunny spots.
Outdoor living space ideas for sun
Mixing sun and shade keeps outdoor living areas comfortable. Ideas include a deck awning for ways to shade a deck, pergola awnings for style, and retractable patio covers for flexibility. Outdoor sunshades or motorised awnings UK allow quick adjustment depending on weather. Waterproof awnings UK also let you enjoy a covered outdoor area year-round.
Solutions for hot windows
Window awnings, conservatory awnings, and fixed awnings are highly effective at reducing solar gain in UK homes. External aluminium awnings block heat before it enters, while metal awnings offer durability. For seasonal shading, a retractable awning UK can be extended in summer and retracted in winter for more light.
How much do awnings cost UK?
In 2025, manual awnings UK typically cost between £900–£1,500 including installation, depending on size and fabric. Motorised awnings UK with sensors and premium waterproof fabrics usually range from £1,800–£5,000+. Cassette awnings and semi-cassette awnings often cost more due to the protective casing.
Are awnings worth it UK?
Yes — awnings, from retractable patio covers to fixed aluminium awnings, provide shade for patios, reduce heat indoors, and offer protection from light rain. They also enhance kerb appeal and make outdoor areas more usable, making them a worthwhile investment for UK homes.
How long does awning installation take UK?
Most awning installation UK projects take 2–4 hours for standard residential awnings. Larger projects such as pergola awnings or motorised retractable awnings may take a full day. In some cases, awning planning permission UK may be required, especially for listed buildings or conservation areas.
Benefits of awnings UK
- Creates a covered outdoor area for year-round use
- Provides patio shade and shelter over patio spaces
- Reduces heat indoors by shading windows
- Protects outdoor furniture from UV damage
- Offers style options: cassette, semi-cassette, open, fixed, or retractable awnings UK
Do awnings keep patio cool?
Yes — waterproof awnings UK can reduce patio surface temperatures by 8–15°C on sunny days. Cassette awnings, open awnings, and pergola awnings all block direct sun, creating a shaded, ventilated patio space.
Do awnings protect from rain?
Most residential awnings provide shelter over patio areas from light to moderate rain when angled correctly. Waterproof awnings UK are ideal for the UK climate, but in heavy downpours or snow, retractable awnings should be closed for protection.
Are awnings good for UK weather?
Yes — retractable awnings UK, especially those made from waterproof, UV-resistant fabrics, are well suited to the UK’s mix of sunshine and showers. Motorised awnings UK make adjusting to sudden weather changes easy, while fixed metal awnings offer durability in coastal areas.
Do awnings add value to a house UK?
While not guaranteed to increase property value directly, professionally installed patio awnings UK or aluminium awnings can boost kerb appeal and make outdoor spaces more attractive to buyers. A high-quality covered outdoor area is seen as a desirable home upgrade in the UK market.
Glass Verandas & Rooms – Frequently Asked Questions
What is a glass veranda or glass room?
A glass veranda or glass room is a glazed outdoor structure attached to your home that provides a sheltered and comfortable space to enjoy your garden year‑round. It typically uses tempered or laminated glass panels for visibility, insulation, and protection.
Do I need planning permission for a glass veranda?
In many cases, glass verandas qualify as permitted development, but this depends on size, location, and local regulations. Check with your local planning authority to confirm.
Can a glass veranda be used all year?
Yes. With the right design, insulation, and optional features like heating and roof vents, your glass room can remain comfortable throughout all seasons.
How do I maintain a glass veranda?
Regular cleaning of glass, checking seals, and ensuring drainage channels are clear will keep the structure looking great and performing well for years.
Are glass verandas energy efficient?
With high-quality double or triple glazed units, a glass veranda can offer good thermal performance and help reduce heat loss compared to standard patio covers.
Aluminium Pergolas – Frequently Asked Questions
What is an aluminium pergola?
An aluminium pergola is an outdoor structure made from lightweight, corrosion-resistant aluminium beams and posts, typically with adjustable or fixed louvres or canopy coverings, designed to offer shade and shelter.
How long does an aluminium pergola last?
Aluminium pergolas are highly durable and can last 20+ years with minimal maintenance. The material’s resistance to rust and corrosion makes it ideal for outdoor use.
Can I have lighting or heating installed in my pergola?
Yes! Many pergolas are fitted with integrated LED lighting, outdoor heaters, and even sound systems to extend comfort and usability into evenings and cooler months.
Do aluminium pergolas require planning permission?
Most pergolas under a certain size are covered by permitted development rights, but it’s essential to check local council requirements, especially for larger or enclosed designs.
Will a pergola protect against rain?
Pergolas with louvred or solid roofing options can be designed to provide rain protection. Adjustable louvres can be closed during showers and opened to let in sunlight.
Seceuroglide Garage Doors – Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Seceuroglide garage doors different?
Seceuroglide doors are premium garage door systems known for high security, smooth and reliable operation, smart automation options, and excellent insulation performance.
Are Seceuroglide doors secure?
Yes. Seceuroglide systems have advanced locking mechanisms and robust construction to protect against forced entry. Some models also integrate additional security accessories for enhanced protection.
Can I automate my Seceuroglide garage door?
Most Seceuroglide doors are motorisation-ready and can be fitted with an electric operator and remote controls for ease and convenience.
How do I maintain my garage door?
Regular maintenance includes checking rollers and tracks for debris, lubricating moving parts, and making sure sensors and safety edges are functioning correctly. Annual professional servicing is also recommended.
Do Seceuroglide doors come with a warranty?
Yes. Seceuroglide products typically include a manufacturer’s warranty covering manufacturing defects. Always check specific warranty terms before purchase.
Innovative Solutions
Always Tailored to Your Needs
Made in Europe
Award Winning Design