The city with a "bay breeze and a million knees," as they say. Tampa Bay area sees millions of people every day. And each one has his or her own back story. How about you? Are you a lifelong resident enjoying the sunshine in Hyde Park? Could you be a snowbird escaping the winter chill in the Davis Islands? Or, are you a newcomer settling into SoHo? No matter your origin, you'll likely find yourself at some point sprucing up your piece of paradise. And when it comes to patios, driveways, or pool decks, two main contenders vie for your attention: concrete and pavers.

But which one reigns supreme in the battle of "better for your Tampa Bay backyard"? Let's dive in and crunch some numbers (and other considerations) to help you make the winning choice.

Let's face it; the "C word" (cost) is a big factor. Here's a breakdown to help you wrap your head around the financial side of things:

Equipment aside, concrete is consistently known to be cheaper than pavers. Basic concrete costs around $6 to $10 per sqft in Tampa. Now, if you use decorative finishes like stamping or staining, expect a price increase of about $12 to $15 per sqft, depending on detail and style. You also have to factor in the budget for pouring and installation, which will cost you $7-$19.

However, pavers come in a LOT more materials — concrete pavers, brick pavers, natural stone — so your price is going to reflect that. Installing a basic concrete paver patio costs $9-$13 per square foot. A brick paver, depending on the quality, costs around $12-$16. Paver material costs $4-$8 per square foot, and paver installation by a reputable Tampa concrete contractor costs $8-$14 per sqft.

Here's where things get interesting. For large projects like sprawling driveways, concrete's lower material cost can translate to significant savings. However, for smaller, intricate designs like pool decks with curves or patterns, pavers might be more cost-effective due to less material waste when cutting and fitting individual pieces.

Tampa's sandy soil conditions are mostly forgiving for both concrete and pavers. However, if your specific location has drainage issues or requires extensive excavation, that could affect the overall cost for either option. Also, if there’s an existing concrete or paver that needs to be demolished, it will cost you $2 to $6 per sqft for concrete and $3 to $8 per sqft for pavers. 

While permits for smaller projects might be minimal, larger ones in designated historic districts like Ybor City or Bayshore Beautiful might have specific requirements that could impact permitting costs for either concrete or pavers.

While cost is a crucial factor, Tampa throws some unique curveballs into the mix:

• Cultural and Aesthetic Considerations: Tampa's architectural landscape boasts a mix of styles. For the historic feel of neighborhoods like Hyde Park or Seminole Heights, traditional concrete or brick pavers might complement the aesthetic beautifully. On the other hand, in sleek, modern communities like Westshore or Channelside, contemporary stamped concrete with clean lines could be the perfect match.
  
  
• Local Availability: Tampa Bay is known for its love of all things nautical. So, it's no surprise that pavers mimicking the look of cobblestone or weathered seawall stone are particularly popular choices here.

The weather in Tampa is the greatest enemy you will face. Let’s see how each of your options match up against the Florida sun and rain:

• Concrete: On the hottest summer days in Tampa, with average temperatures reaching 90s(°F), uncured and improperly laid concrete can crack. But when cured, concrete is so low-maintenance that it’s nearly no effort at all to keep it in good condition. What’s more, it offers the same flat, slick look that was once reserved for pool tables and bowling alleys. If you choose the right pigments and striations, you can convince casual observers that you spent a fortune on pavers. You can even make concrete look like expensive wood when, in fact, you have spent far less.
  
  
• Pavers: Drainage can be strained from Tampa's frequent afternoon rainstorms. But this can be mitigated with the use of pavers. With a proper sub-base installation, pavers allow water to drain into the ground and prevent pooling. Additionally, since pavers are built individually, repairs are easier. Unlike concrete, where you have to repair or replace an entire slab, with pavers, you only have to replace the specific unit that’s cracked or damaged. Finally, DIY enthusiasts can do paver installation for smaller projects.

Harsh winters are uncommon in Florida. However, Tampa's climate does have some unique characteristics that may present challenges:

• Drainage: Tampa has frequent rain showers. These downpours require proper drainage, or repairs from water damage could cost you. In cases like this, pavers with a well-compacted sub-base can significantly outperform concrete. It is better at channeling water away from your property.
  
  
• Heat and Freeze-thaw Cycles: Here in the Sunshine State, we don’t really experience the dramatic freeze-thaw cycles they see up north. However, Tampa's hot summers can be brutal on concrete. When improperly set, concrete slabs can crack under the incessant heat. Pavers, on the other hand, can better withstand high temperatures, even during the hottest of days. 

So, is there a clear winner in the concrete vs. pavers battle in Tampa? Not quite. Like a perfectly chilled glass of sweet tea on a hot sunny day, the answer lies with you. It all depends on your specific needs and preferences.

• Affordability and large, straightforward project: This points out that if your main concern is saving money, then concrete is more cost-effective. If you have a big, simple project like a long driveway, then concrete might be the better choice. Poured concrete is less expensive per sqft compared to driveway pavers. Additionally, for large, uncomplicated projects, there's less cutting and fitting involved, minimizing material waste, which can further reduce the overall cost of concrete.
  
  
• Aesthetics, customization, easier repairs: This section highlights the advantages of pavers if you prioritize these aspects.  Concrete offers a more classic look. Pavers, meanwhile, come in a wider variety of materials, colors, and styles. With pavers, you have more design flexibility. You can customize it to match your taste and improve your home’s overall curb appeal. As for repairs, if a paver gets damaged, it can be replaced individually. In comparison, repairing a cracked section of concrete requires more work.

Ultimately, the best choice for your outdoor space depends on your project's size, complexity, desired look, and budget. 

Q: Can I install pavers myself?

A: You can improve your paving skills by working on your small DIY projects. However, for larger or more complex projects, professional installation is highly recommended. This guarantees the project has a solid sub-base preparation, leveling, and compaction, that are necessary for a long-lasting structure.

Q: How long do concrete driveways last in Tampa?

A: Concrete driveways in Tampa can last 20-30 years or even longer. But to achieve this, the concrete must be properly installed and maintained. You also need to consider changes in climate. You can use expansion joints to address rapid cooling and heating.

Q: What ongoing maintenance does each option require?

A: Concrete requires minimal maintenance after the initial curing period. Regular cleaning with a hose and occasional resealing (especially for exposed driveways) will help maintain its look and longevity. Pavers generally require low maintenance as well. Simply sweep the dirt and debris to keep your property looking tidy. Add in some occasional power washing to remove mildew or grime. Doing these minimal maintenance steps helps keep your flooring look its best. Stain removal might be necessary depending on spills or weather conditions.

Q: Are there any environmental considerations for each option?

A: If sourced locally and installed properly, both materials are environment-friendly choices. Concrete can be recycled and reused in some cases. Meanwhile, permeable pavers are great at water drainage management.