Discover the Pros and Cons of Concrete Driveway Installation

In Tampa, the beach, the sun, and the culture are all major draws. But a beautiful house and functional outdoor spaces that allow us to enjoy all three is like the cherry on top. Say you are done beautifying your house, and all that’s left is a parkway that looks like it’s been forgotten with time. Well, now is the right moment to get that fixed. A gorgeous driveway not only gives a good impression. But, it’s also like beloved arms warmly welcoming you home.

It’s normal to want to have that picture-perfect home beyond your front door. It won’t come as a surprise if you are now considering having concrete driveways installed in Tampa - you’ve heard lots of people raving about it. But before you start looking for a contractor, let’s first talk about the concrete driveway pros and cons you need to consider. We want to make sure a concrete parkway is the right choice for you. Remember that here in Tampa, we have to consider the climate and natural elements. Why? Because they are keys to keeping our parking area beautiful and functional longer. 

• Built for Tampa's Sunshine: Remember the 246 days out of 365 sunny days we have in Tampa? How about the high temps ranging from 88°F to 91°F we suffer through in summer? Flooring materials are affected by those too! The good news is, unlike some materials, concrete reflects sunlight (Backatcha sun!) Your patio remains cool and crack-free. What’s more, a parkway without cracks gives your home a touch of class. It gives the impression your property is well-maintained.
  
  
• Standing Strong Through Tampa's Storms: Florida's rainy season is not to be laughed at. Although there are a few elevations, with Florida’s relatively flat topography, flooding is a major concern for many. But no need to panic! Concrete driveways have superior drainage (with proper installation and a working drainage system), preventing puddles. Without water pooling, you don’t have to worry about creating the perfect breeding ground for mosquitos. Molds and mildews are also out of the question. You may get drenched braving the thunderstorm trying to catch a concert at the historic Florida State Fairgrounds, but at least your driveway will be the least of your worries!
  
  
• Low-Maintenance Beauty for the Busy Tampa Lifestyle: Tampanians have a lot to live for! There are just so many things to do! And might not even get to do everything in this short life we have. You must experience Ybor’s City nightlife. You got to kayak through the Hillsborough River. Would love to spend the day at the Tampa Riverwalk! Now, who has time for endless driveway upkeep? Nobody! But guess what? Concrete is a dream come true for busy(body) homeowners. Just do some quick sweeping with your trusty broom or hose it down for a few minutes and you are good to go. If you feel it’s time-consuming, maybe do some quick pressure washing, and you can have a clean and polished-looking entryway.
  
  
• A Timeless Look for Tampa's Architectural Gems: Diverse does not just apply to people living in Tampa. It definitely applies to the culture and architecture in the Bay Area. And you can integrate that diversity into your concrete driveway. Do you live in a fancy Victorian mansion at Old Seminole Heights? Or could it be that you want to copy the artistic deco masterpieces of Downtown Tampa? With concrete, you can make your driveways complement a wide range of architectural styles. From the classic looks and timeless appeal of South Tampa to the more modern elegance of Carrollwood homes, concrete has something in store for you.

• Upfront Cost: Compared to asphalt driveway, concrete is pricier. Now it may be tempting to choose cheaper materials. But if you think about how long concrete can last (30 years or so) compared to what you are paying for upfront, it’s actually worth every penny! What’s more, concrete requires less upkeep than other materials. In essence, the benefits are more valuable than the drawbacks.
  
  
• Susceptibility to Cracking: You read earlier that concrete can last for years. And that is true! But, when it is not installed correctly, there’s a high risk of it cracking from too much heat, high foot traffic, heavy load, freeze-thaw, water damage, and shifting sand underneath. This is why choosing a qualified concrete company in Tampa is important. The contractor must have experience working with our sandy soil, hot and humid climate, and sporadic thunderstorms. With professional skills and modern techniques, the contractor can set a proper foundation to minimize the risk of cracks and guarantee you’ll be able to use your driveway for years.
  
  
• Limited Customization (Optional): Concrete has come a long way. But it is nowhere near pavers. If you are looking for a highly customized driveway, concrete may not be a good choice. However, if you are happy with classy textures and simple designs with just a pop of color, with the help of stamps and stains, concrete might just do the work.  

While the initial price of a concrete driveway might seem higher compared to some alternatives, it's crucial to consider the long-term cost perspective.

• Lower Long-Term Expenses: Concrete is durable and does not scratch easily. It can last for years without a need for repairs. It’s durability and low-maintenance features make it a more cost-effective choice in the long run.
  
  
• Sealing and Maintenance: Concrete needs to be resealed every 3 to 5 years. Yes, it is an added cost. But the seal protects the concrete from the sun, other elements like salt spray, dirt, and stains, so you can use it longer. When concrete is properly maintained, you can save yourself the trouble of dealing with early repairs, resurfacing, or replacements.

Tampa presents a remarkable blend of old and new. And we love it! This city embraces individuality. From the historic bungalows of Hyde Park, our go-to stomping for Gasparilla, to the animated murals lining the streets of Ybor City, a neighborhood steeped in Cuban heritage - it is apparent in the eclectic neighborhoods that make it up. So, how can you show that with your driveway?

• Matching Your Tampa Style: Go for a classic and clean look to match the architectural heritage of some of Tampa’s communities. For bungalows in Seminole Heights, using a classic concrete finish can give your home a touch of timeless elegance. Or picture it creating a modern contrast against the art deco buildings of Downtown Tampa, where you might find yourself grabbing a post-work drink at Bern's Steak House, a Tampa institution frequented by local sports heroes like the legendary Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady.
  
  
• Tampa's Topography: You need a good drainage system for your driveway. With our relatively flat topography, we’d have to make sure water does not pool when it rains - that could weaken or damage the concrete. But if you live along the rolling hills of Carrollwood, concrete's stability is an extra benefit.
  
  
• Local Expertise Matters: Tampa's unique soil conditions, predominantly sandy, require special considerations during concrete driveway installations. A local concrete construction company will understand the nuances of the Tampa Bay area's soil and take the necessary steps to prepare a sturdy foundation for your driveway. They'll also be familiar with local building codes and permitting processes, saving you hours of frustration with their services.