Excited to go home for some lunchtime lobster and Key Lime Pie treat? Who wouldn’t be? But as you drive up to your property, you come to a realization. Compared to that of your neighbors, your cracked concrete driveway in Tampa, FL looks dull and grubby! Don’t let it ruin your appetite. Enjoy your lobster first. Then, while drinking coffee with a slice of that heavenly pie, consider if you should upgrade your driveway into something more ritzy.
Now, hold your horses! Before you jump in with both feet (like a tourist at Gasparilla!), let's first find out the pros and cons of using pavers for driveways, the types to choose from, and other considerations to know if it’s really for you. We'll uncover how these little stones can transform your driveway. Let’s go from a forgettable afterthought into a functional work of art!
Paver Driveways in Tampa: Weighing the Pros and Cons
Tampa Bay's summers can reach a blistering 91°F temperature. But high temps are not the only problem. There’s the frequent rain showers that test drainage systems and often cause water to pool. While traditional concrete is a common choice, paver is a better one. Not only is it stylish, but it is also a much more functional alternative. Now, let’s check if the benefits can outweigh the drawbacks.
Pros:
- Built for Tampa's Heat: Paver’s design and composition reflect heat better than asphalt or concrete. Pavers are lighter in color and do not absorb as much heat as darker color materials. They come with textures as well. That helps scatter sunlight, further increasing the amount of heat reflected away from it. Moreover, as per the law of thermodynamics, the size of the paver matters. Since it has a small mass, it absorbs less heat and cools down faster than a big slab of concrete.
- Standing Strong Through Sunshine and Storms: Poured concrete is impermeable and blocks water from passing through. So, when it rains, there’s always a risk of surface run-off on concrete driveways. On the other hand, pavers are permeable and allow water to seep through, reducing the risk of flooding. As an added benefit, the water that passes through replenishes local water tables. Thanks to it, Tampa’s water cycle remains healthy.
- Long-Lasting Beauty: Another advantage of a paver driveway is how long it can last. With proper care, it can be used for up to 50 years! This exceeds an asphalt lifespan, which is only around 10 to 15 years tops. Another thing is that units are individually built and laid. This means if one gets damaged, you don’t have to replace the entire flooring. This bonus feature can save you a lot on costly repairs or replacements.
- Curb Appeal Champion: You can create a custom-designed driveway with pavers. It comes in various colors, textures, and patterns and can be made to complement the architectural style of your home. For example, if you have terracotta roof tiles, you can use bricks for a classic, harmonious look. If you want a more modern touch, then groovy travertine is a great choice.
- Low Maintenance Marvels: Pavers require minimal upkeep. They don’t need regular sealing or scrubbing. Regularly sweep the floor with a broom. Occasional cleaning with a pressure washer goes a long way. But how about weeds growing between the gaps? For this, you can use polymeric sand between the gaps to stave off the growth of weeds.
Cons:
- Higher Upfront Cost: Pavers are more expensive than other materials. But if you consider how long they last and their low-maintenance requirement, you’d agree that they are more cost-effective in the long run.
- Professional Installation Recommended: While some paver types are DIY-friendly, especially for smaller areas, pro installation is highly recommended in Tampa. Our sandy soil requires specific base preparation and leveling for optimal performance and longevity. A skilled paver installer will ensure your driveway is built to withstand Tampa's unique weather patterns and avoid costly repairs down the road.
- Maintenance Needs: Another disadvantage is the upkeep. While generally low maintenance, occasional cleaning with a pressure washer might be needed. Additionally, polymeric sand along the joints may require periodic reapplication to maintain its weed-resistant properties.
Types of Pavers Perfect for Tampa's Terrain
The neighborhoods in Tampa Bay, just like its culture are diverse. Each has its own architectural charm and topography. Climate and soil type also vary. So, when choosing which one to use for your driveway, consider all these factors to create a beautiful but functional driveway.
- Concrete Pavers: This type of paver is more affordable than the rest. It is durable and can be made to look like bricks and flagstones. However, since it’s made of concrete, you have limited design options available.
- Best for: Budget-conscious homeowners in established neighborhoods like SoHo (South Howard Avenue) or Hyde Park with flat topography and sandy soil. These areas experience frequent rain showers, and this paving offers a budget-friendly solution with good drainage capabilities in sandy soil. They can be chosen in a traditional red or terracotta hue to complement the classic bungalows and Craftsman homes prevalent in these areas.
- Brick Pavers: Made with clay, this type of paver is durable and has high resistance to stains. Although a bit pricier than its counterpart, this paver offers better heat resistance. They are not susceptible to erosion which is a major concern for other materials.
- Best for: It is best for neighborhoods with flat topography and sandy soil. Also a great option for areas steeped in Spanish Colonial Revival architecture like SoHo or Ybor City. Bricks, with their earthy tones like terracotta or chestnut, blend well with the red tile roofs and stucco walls common in historic areas. Brick's natural heat resistance is also a plus during summers.
- Stone Pavers: If you need flooring with superb heat resistance and sturdy on slopes, this is the paver for you. Not only that, stone pavers that use travertine can give your home a boost in terms of elegance. Keep in mind, though that sophistication comes at a price.
- Best for: Upscale neighborhoods like Davis Islands or Balcony Heights with potential for rolling hills or slopes and sandy soil. Stone pavers, particularly granite, offer superior durability on slight inclines compared to other options. Their natural heat resistance is also ideal for Tampa's climate. Flagstone offers a natural charm that complements the Mediterranean-style homes and waterfront estates found in these areas.
- Permeable Pavers: Do you have flooding problems during rainstorms? Well, permeable pavers might be the answer. This durable paver made from fired clay bricks or concrete, is especially for directing water to underground aquifers. With it, you can say goodbye to surface run-offs, mold, and mildew! However, keep in mind that it requires frequent maintenance so weeds won’t grow between the units.
- Best for: Eco-conscious homeowners throughout Tampa Bay, especially in neighborhoods with flat topography and sandy soil conditions like Carrollwood or Westchase. Permeable pavers are ideal for these areas as they promote responsible water management, a crucial consideration in our rain-prone city. The sandy soil allows for proper drainage to prevent water pooling.
Pavers vs. Asphalt and Concrete
- Pavers vs. Asphalt: Asphalt may seem cheaper at face value. But you have to agree that it can't compete with paver driveways in terms of heat resistance, style, and long-term value.
- Pavers vs. Concrete: These two materials have some similarities. Both are durable and cost-effective. Concrete is cheap upfront but costs more to repair, offsetting the initial savings. Pavers are more expensive when installed, but are a lot cheaper when it needs to be repaired or replaced. However, when talking about design flexibility, pavers can offer more. Don’t forget that pavers are also more permeable, so less worry of water pooling.
