Universal Hardscapes
Are Pavers Better Than Concrete in Florida?
Pavers can be a good choice for Florida driveways and patios when repairability and design flexibility matter. Poured concrete is another option. Compare the complete installed systems, including the base, drainage, maintenance and project cost.
Project planning · Universal Hardscapes
Published
Side by side
| Concrete pavers (60 mm) | Poured concrete slab | |
|---|---|---|
| Cracking | Joints allow some movement; units can still crack or settle if the system is unsuitable | Control joints help, but slabs commonly crack as soil shifts |
| Repairs | Lift and reset the affected area; matching depends on product availability and weathering | Patch or replace sections; patches rarely match |
| Rain and drainage | Conventional pavers need planned drainage; they are not a permeable pavement system | Water sheets off the surface toward edges and drains |
| Heat | Lighter colors such as Ice Gray, Sand Stone and Siesta may absorb less solar heat; compare samples | Plain gray concrete reflects some heat but offers few color choices |
| Look | Featured colors and patterns include Atlas, Troy, Olympia, Milano and Valencia | One flat gray surface unless stamped or stained |
| Installed cost | Compare quotes for material, preparation and installation | Compare a quote for the same scope |
| Long-term upkeep | Top up joint sand as needed; read the warranty terms before sealing or pressure-washing | Fill cracks and clean; deep cracks mean replacement |
Reference links: warranty terms.
Why the ground matters in Tampa Bay
Both systems need a design that accounts for soil support, roots, drainage and loads. Interlocking pavers can be lifted to repair a localized base problem, but they cannot correct inadequate preparation on their own.
Are 60 mm pavers strong enough for a driveway?
Our concrete pavers are 60 mm thick. Suitability for a residential driveway depends on the selected format, vehicle loads, soil, base, drainage and installation. Confirm the complete pavement design with your installer before ordering.
Which pavers stay coolest around a pool or patio?
Lighter colors can absorb less solar heat than darker colors, but all paving can become hot in direct sun. Compare Ice Gray, Sand Stone and Siesta samples under your own conditions; Universal has not published comparative surface-temperature tests.
How long do pavers last?
A paver surface installed on a properly compacted base typically lasts for decades, because damaged sections can be lifted and reset instead of torn out. Universal Hardscapes pavers carry a 1-year limited warranty from the date of purchase. See the full warranty terms for coverage and care conditions.
What does a paver driveway cost compared with concrete?
Compare written installed quotes for the same project scope. Material, excavation, base preparation, access, drainage and labor all affect the total; there is no universal cost advantage.
- For material pricing, call (813) 884-0010 with your square footage and pattern.
- For a full installed price, get quotes from installers. Use Find a Contractor to request help finding an independent installer.
How much do I need?
One cube of our pavers covers 118–130 sq ft depending on the pattern. Plan about one cube per 100 sq ft of project area, including waste. See how many square feet a pallet of pavers covers.
Ready to compare colors? See driveway pavers made in Tampa or browse concrete paver colors. Homeowners can see samples at our Tampa showroom, 6005 Anderson Road (call (813) 885-6900 for hours). Contractors can order for pickup at our plant, 7720 US Hwy 301 N, (813) 884-0010. We deliver within 100–120 miles of our Tampa plant, covering all of Tampa Bay plus Orlando, Ocala and Fort Myers. We offer free truckload delivery within a 20-mile radius of the plant.
For background, see the CMHA guide to paver bases and site conditions.
Frequently asked questions
Are pavers better than concrete in Florida?
Pavers can be a good choice for Florida driveways and patios when repairability and design flexibility matter. Poured concrete is another option. Compare the complete installed systems, including the base, drainage, maintenance and project cost.
Are 60 mm pavers strong enough for a driveway?
Our concrete pavers are 60 mm thick. Suitability for a residential driveway depends on the selected format, vehicle loads, soil, base, drainage and installation. Confirm the complete pavement design with your installer before ordering.
Which pavers stay coolest around a pool or patio?
Lighter colors can absorb less solar heat than darker colors, but all paving can become hot in direct sun. Compare Ice Gray, Sand Stone and Siesta samples under your own conditions; Universal has not published comparative surface-temperature tests.
How long do pavers last?
Service life depends on the product, base, drainage, loads and care. Individual pavers can be lifted and reset for localized repairs. Universal’s published limited warranty is one year from purchase; read its coverage and care conditions.
What does a paver driveway cost compared with concrete?
Compare written installed quotes for the same scope. Material, excavation, base preparation, drainage, access and labor affect the total. Contact Universal for material pricing and independent installers for installation quotes.
Planning a project?
Talk with Universal about the materials, samples and pricing for your project.
Discuss your material order