When deciding to build your dream house, what is the most important thing you should consider for your family’s safety - a solid, sturdy, and unshakable foundation, right? The same applies to pavers. Pavers must be built atop a solid base for them to withstand long exposure to various natural elements like intense heat in summer and freezing temperatures in winter. You need a durable yet aesthetic hardscape – and that’s what pavers have in store for you. Tampa Paving Company is here to bring your vision to life—get in touch!
We all know that Tampa’s climate is a unique one. We experience high humidity because of the city’s subtropical weather. We also have to deal with frequent summer downpours – making our pavers and concrete totally exposed to damaging elements. More so, our sandy soil also poses problems when creating impenetrable bases for our pavers.
Putting pavers above concrete in Tampa is doable. However, there are major drawbacks when doing this, which is why it is not recommended. Let’s talk about these in detail.
When considering this, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of this project. While this choice might be a quick and cost-effective solution, the long-term effects may prove it not to be so.
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
It is, therefore, wise to carefully consider these important factors when deciding whether to lay one type of paving on top of another or follow the proper process of demolition, base preparation, and installation.
The unique climate characteristics of Tampa obviously pose unpredictable challenges when adding pavers to existing structures. Hence, it is important to keep in mind these challenges and prepare for possible solutions. These challenges are the following:
Oftentimes, the best long-term solution is to demolish the old paving and start anew with a proper base. This method ensures better drainage, prevents uneven surfaces, and provides a solid foundation for your pavers. Though you need to cash out more initially, it will save you money and hassle in the long run.
Whether you decide to do this project all by yourself is up to you, but there are professional paver installers who have the expertise and equipment to tackle the job. Getting an expert to do this project is important to guarantee durability and longevity. Also, instead of spending too much time learning the entire process, having an expert do the work will allow you to spend time with your family or work.
Q: Can I install pavers directly on concrete?
You can do it. But you need to be sure the existing structure is in good shape. Any cracks, uneven spots, or areas where it's lifting might be problematic. Make sure the surface is cleaned with a pressure washer to remove any dirt or debris.
Q: Should I remove the concrete before putting in a new flooring?
Although this is possible, it's advisable to remove the concrete first and then create a proper base. This method typically offers better durability and a nicer look.
Q: How long do pavers last when laid on concrete?
Pavers over concrete typically don't last long since they are not laid on a proper base. Remember, their durability also depends on factors like drainage, maintenance, and weather conditions. When all these play against the structure, it gets compromised, shortening its lifespan.
Q: Will Tampa’s unique climate affect this type of installation?
Tampa's humidity, sandy soil, and hurricane season do affect this type of flooring. Guaranteeing good drainage, proper base preparation, and choosing the right materials are essential for its longevity.
Q: Should I do it myself or hire an expert?
While you could do it on your own, installing pavers requires expert skill and precision. For the best results, it's usually advisable to hire a professional paver installer.
