Lightning, sinkholes, and annual pirate invasions are just some things to look out for in Tampa. Our city, known for its "bay breeze and a million knees," also has three festivals dedicated to “liquoring up.” We got The Summer of Rum Festival, The Bourbon & Brew Festival, and The Tampa Bay Margarita Festival. And with your family and friends trying to get to the heart of the party as fast as possible, nobody minds beating up and abusing your paver driveway.
Knowing that curb appeal is a big deal in Tampa, you’d like to make sure that your pavers stand the test of time…and abuse during neighborhood festivities. You don’t want grubby-looking pavers during summer when everyone is hitting the beaches and might pass your home on their way to see local attractions! But how long should a paver driveway last?
Are Paver Driveways Built to Last a Lifetime?
The good news is that if you properly care for your pavers, they could last for 30 to 50 years! Enjoy basking in your neighbors’ envy for a long time before they eventually get over it.
But there’s a kicker. Tampa has a special way of testing structures! We’ve got 246 sunny days and a blistering 91° average temperature in summer. Top that off with occasional rain showers that could do a score to our drainage system. Don’t forget the sandy soil, sinkholes, and salt spray from the gulf.
The Big Factors Affecting Your Paver Driveways
The challenges your pavers have to face may sound daunting. But, there are ways to help your paver remain functional longer. Here are the key players in the Tampa Paver lifespan game:
- Paver Material: You've got options, Tampa!
- Concrete Pavers: This type of paver is a local favorite. It’s like the Tom Brady of Pavers because of the many benefits it offers. For one, it’s highly durable and could handle Tampa’s heat, even in summer. Plus, it won’t easily buckle under the weight of your Gasparilla pirate krewe float. Two, it’s the most affordable at $7 to $16 per sq ft. Three, it comes in various colors and styles. This type could survive 30 to 50 years. It doesn’t last forever, but pavers can last much longer than other type of driveways.
- Brick Pavers: If you want a more classic look and timeless appeal, this type of pavers are for you. If you want to reenact strolling down Bayshore Boulevard in your own yard, this type of paver will give you that, plus an added touch of elegance. With this, expect your driveway to service you well for 20 to 40 years. However, this type’s a bit more expensive at $9 to $20 per sq ft. Moreover, it needs more TLC than good ole concrete.
- Natural Stone Pavers: It’s the Michael Jordan of Pavers! With its luxuriously unique look, it complements Tampa's natural beauty. However, they require more maintenance and might not be the most budget-friendly option. Since it uses travertine, slate, and marble, to name a few, expect the price range to be as high as $15 to $27 per sq ft.
- Installation Quality: Florida's Myakka fine sand and sinkholes might pose problems to any structure, including driveways. The calcareous soil, although good for drainage, is problematic since it’s prone to shifting. Meanwhile, since Tampa Bay sits on relatively flat land, the level of underground water (water table) is high. Moreover, there are also sporadic drizzles that torment ineffective drainage systems in the area. Taking all these into consideration, it’s imperative that you hire a local contractor who understands these challenges. By installing a high-quality solid base and proper drainage, your driveway will be protected from the elements. Don’t skimp on hiring a good contractor. Remember, a cheap installation might end up costing you more on outdoor repairs and replacements.
- Traffic and Weight: Being the busy place that it is, foot traffic and vehicle weight must be considered, too. Think of the daily commutes, weekend trips to Busch Gardens, and the periodic snowbird influx your driveway has to deal with. All these could put a strain on it. Moreover, heavier vehicles and frequent use will speed up your driveway’s wear and tear.
- Maintenance: Your driveway needs some TLC. Just like you’ve always supported the Buccaneers, win or lose, your paver driveway needs some of your attention, too. Though you won’t be required to brush it daily, regular sweeping helps. Pavers also need resealing every 3 to 5 years to protect them from elements and staining. Moreover, to control the growth of weeds, you need to use polymeric sand between the units every 5 to 10 years.
How Sunshine, Rain, and Topography Affect How Long Pavers Last
Now, let's talk about the unique challenges and opportunities Tampa throws your paver driveway's way:
- Sunshine and Rain: Tampa’s not Tampa without the sun and the Bay. Though they allow us to have fun year-round, they could also damage the paver - they cause the color to fade. Sealing helps stall fading. But it’s a good idea to consider the color of your paver so it does not cause you headaches early on. On the flip side, Tampa gets its fair share in summer. Here's where that proper drainage we mentioned earlier comes in. You don't want your pavers turning into a mini Hillsborough River after an afternoon downpour.
- Freeze-Thaw Cycles: This phenomenon isn’t common in the Tampa Bay area. However, it does happen from time to time and causes pavers to jack up. This is less of a concern in Tampa, but something to keep in mind if you live in hilly areas like Westchase in Hillsborough County or Lake Wales Ridge in Polk County, where water pooling may compound the problem.
Culture, Aesthetics, and Keeping it Tampa
- Tampa's Style: Although red brick is a popular choice for Tampa paver driveways, you shouldn’t be afraid to try something else. With different patterns, colors, and shapes, you could have a driveway that’s entirely your own!
- DIY vs. Professional Installation: In Tampa, DIY is the name of the game. We all love getting our hands and knees dirty to work on different home projects. And there’s nothing wrong with that. However, before taking on a paver construction project, do an honest assessment to see if you are able to do the job. Think if you are properly equipped and knowledgeable enough to handle the unique soil conditions and potential for sinkholes of your property. If your answer is no, then hiring a professional installer with experience in our local geography is the smart choice. By hiring a pro, you not only save yourself from the headache of dealing with early repairs, but your property will be safe to use for your family.
Cost Considerations: Investing in Lasting Beauty
Let's talk money, honey (as they might say down in Ybor City). Here's a breakdown of the costs to consider:
- Initial Installation Cost: This depends on the size of your property, the chosen paver material, and labor costs. If you are working on a budget, concrete pavers are the most budget-friendly choice. But if you have money to splurge and want to achieve the grandest-looking pavers, then natural stones are the best. Keep in mind that they come at a premium. But no matter what your choice may be, it all takes a quality construction for it to be useful for a lifetime.
- Maintenance Costs: Besides the initial cost, you also need to clean and reseal pavers. However, if you compare that to loads of repairs or replacement, pavers are still the winner when it comes to lower long-term cost of ownership.
Maximizing Your Paver Concrete Pavers and Brick Pavers Driveway's Lifespan
So, you want your parkway to be the Tom Brady of driveways – lasting for years and always looking sharp. Here's how to make it happen:
- Choosing the Right Pavers: It’s best to consult a professional when choosing the pavers that fit your needs - stability and aesthetic-wise. Consider factors like durability, aesthetics, budget, and Tampa's climate.
- Professional Construction Matters: Find a reputable contractor with experience in Tampa's unique soil conditions and drainage challenges. Don't hesitate to ask for references and check their work.
- Routine Maintenance: You don’t have to spend hours cleaning and scrubbing your floor. But, regularly sweeping the floor to remove dirt and debris can help in maintaining your pavers. You could also pressure wash your pavers from time to time but make sure to use moderate settings to avoid damaging the pavers. Lastly, reseal every 3 to 5 years to defend from staining and natural elements that can cause cracking and spalling.
