Miami Gardens Homeowners Love Concrete Walkways

Heat Resistance and UV Protection

The sun is always shining brightly on South Florida’s sidewalks and walkways. Concrete naturally has a higher reflectivity level than dark colors, so they stay cooler for people walking on it during those long, hot summers. Today’s concrete mixes are made with special additives to increase the UV resistance of concrete. These additives work to slow down the fading and degradation of the surface due to UV exposure. Even in extremely high heat (low to mid-90 degrees) that Miami-Dade experiences from May to October, the concrete still holds its shape and does not expand or contract like other products do. Additionally, properties close to Lester B. Brown Park enjoy the fact that concrete will not be damaged by the heat-related expansion and contraction that may occur in other types of materials.

Moisture and Water Management

Miami Gardens receives about 60 inches of rain each year. It is common for the most rain to fall during the summer storms. Concrete walkways are great at draining water from homes when the concrete is graded and drained correctly. There is no place for water to pool on a solid surface. The solid surface also helps to eliminate the possibility of slippery surfaces that lead to erosion of the surrounding landscape. Unlike porous materials, such as pavers, that absorb water and promote mold and mildew growth, sealed concrete is resistant to water penetration. People who live near Miami Carol City Park enjoy how their concrete withstands the frequent afternoon storms that we get in South Florida, and how the concrete does not need to be repaired often.

Hurricane Season Durability

Since South Florida is prone to tropical storms and hurricanes, it is important to know that the concrete will remain stable during severe weather. Unlike pavers or other unstable materials that will wash away with strong wind and rain, the weight and proper reinforcement of the concrete will keep it grounded. With hurricane season taking place from June to November, you can feel confident knowing that your concrete walkways will remain safe and in good condition. Many residents living in neighborhoods near Myrtle Grove Park have concrete installations that have been able to endure multiple storm seasons without being significantly damaged.

Less Maintenance in Higher Humidity

Humidity is usually very high in South Florida, with average humidity levels ranging from 70% to 75%. Many types of materials used outdoors will deteriorate quickly in this type of environment. Compared to wood, which rots, and pavers, which shift and grow weeds, concrete needs much less maintenance. Regular cleaning and occasional sealing of the concrete will keep the look and feel of the surface fresh and new for many decades. In addition to being less prone to mold, mildew, and algae, which affect many walkway options in humid areas, homeowners will save both time and money over the life span of their walkways with the low-maintenance aspect of concrete.

Thermal Mass and Temperature Regulation

In addition to providing a durable surface, concrete acts as a thermal mass, helping to regulate the temperature extremes of your property. During hot days, well-designed concrete pathways absorb heat slowly and then release it slowly during cool evenings. By regulating temperature in this way, you will have a safer and more enjoyable outdoor space for family gatherings and evening strolls. In addition, concrete’s density provides a natural cooling effect that makes walkways more comfortable to walk on, regardless of the outside temperature.

Root Damage Prevention

Trees and shrubs that exist in the landscaping of Miami Gardens can cause problems with poorly built pathways. However, concrete installations are far more resistant to damage from roots when properly reinforced with steel and installed deep enough to accommodate tree roots. The strength of concrete prevents cracking and lifting that can occur when tree roots push against weaker surfaces. Contractors install the pathways with a root barrier and proper spacing to protect both the pathway and valuable plants in the landscape. Neighborhoods throughout the area have pathways that remain in good shape despite having mature oak trees and tropical palms growing nearby.

Local Building Code Compliance

Miami Gardens follows the Florida Building Code, which sets certain guidelines for building and constructing outdoor projects. Installing concrete walkways that meet the requirements of the Florida Building Code will ensure that your pathway will be safe, accessible, and long-lasting for your residential property. Contractors in the area are familiar with the process of obtaining permits for building and installing pathways with the city’s Building and Code Compliance Department. A properly installed pathway will include a correct grade for drainage, sufficient width for access, and expansion joints that will prevent cracks in the pathway. If you hire an experienced contractor, they will ensure that your project meets all of the local regulations and will perform optimally.

Cost-Effective Long-Term

Although the cost of initially installing a concrete pathway may be greater than some other alternatives, the long-term savings of maintenance and replacement are unmatched. A concrete pathway installed by a professional contractor can last anywhere from 30 to 50 years in Miami Gardens’ climate with little to no maintenance. Due to the weather, foot traffic, and environmental elements, homeowners avoid the repeated costs associated with repairing or replacing rotted wood, resetting displaced pavers, and controlling weed growth. Additionally, attractive concrete pathways add to the beauty of your property and increase the value of your home in residential neighborhoods.

Variety of Designs

With modern technology, there are endless design options available for customizing your concrete walkway to fit any architectural style found in Miami Gardens. Using a variety of stamped designs, decorative borders, and different textures creates visually pleasing pathways that enhance your landscape design. With color additives and various staining techniques, you can create a pathway that ranges from a natural earth tone to a modern color. Homeowners can achieve the look of expensive materials, but with the added benefits of concrete’s superior durability and weather-resistance. An experienced contractor will assist you in designing a pathway that complements your current landscape design and architectural elements.

Experience Counts

There are many variables involved in getting the best out of your concrete pathway, including site preparation, material selection, and the installation techniques that are specific to the South Florida region. Site preparation, placing the reinforcing steel, and finishing the surface in a manner that allows the pathway to withstand the extreme weather conditions of the South Florida region is critical. At Miami Gardens Concrete Pros, we have many years of experience working with properties in the Miami Gardens area; we understand the soil conditions and drainage requirements of the area. We use high-quality concrete mixtures that are specifically developed for the tropical climate of South Florida and utilize time-tested installation methods that result in successful outcomes. We strive to deliver the highest quality of service possible with every project we complete, and we want to exceed the expectations of homeowners regarding durability and aesthetics.