How to Design Paver Steps the Right Way in Florida
Homeowners in Broward and Palm Beach interested in upgrading the outdoor spaces often turn to installing pavers everywhere they can. Pavers don’t have the vulnerabilities of concrete and other masonry materials, because the installation methods are entirely different. Brick steps installed in south Florida, along with cinder blocks and cement, will eventually crack as the ground under them settles over time. These materials rely on stability and rigidity to maintain their structural integrity, which ironically, causes these stress cracks.
Pavers, including those used to build steps, are among the most durable step solutions you can use in warm, humid climates, like south Florida. Paver steps are designed to move slightly when the temperature fluctuates, releasing the stresses that would otherwise create a crack.
By using paver steps, south Floridians save themselves money, time, and hassles, compared to regular masonry. Paver steps can be integrated into an elegant patio, walkway, or driveway, without any of the hassles of standard masonry, such as curing.
Custom Paver Steps Installation Tips: Broward and Palm Beach County, Florida
What Goes Wrong
Modern outdoor paver steps in south Florida are a blessing to many frustrated homeowners. Old, worn outdoors steps are particularly unsafe when handrails detach, steps are uneven, and the weight is too much for the footings.
Paver steps do not fade, crack, chip, or otherwise degrade, because unlike concrete, paver steps can move with the ground. The south Florida climate, the soil mixture (loam), and the constant wind cause slight movements, which are not friendly to rigid materials.
Why Choose Paver Steps?
Paver Steps vs Concrete
Pavers used in step construction are never completely immobile, but rather adjust to the south Florida climate. Brick, concrete, and other masonry is used primarily for its strength and stability, which actually work against the materials in the hot, humid air south Florida is famous for.
Paver Durability
Pavers won’t fade, disintegrate, or require additional support in the Florida climate. No rebar or metal lathe is needed to hold them in place either. Paver steps rest on compacted stone and sand, not hardened cement.
Aesthetic Value
Modern buyers understand the value of curb appeal and low maintenance materials. When shopping, many place low maintenance materials high atop their list of priorities. Great looks and low maintenance requirements make pavers ideal for outdoor steps, and buyers are willing to pay for them.
Paver Steps Planning and Design for South Florida
Paver steps are the perfect solution for homes in Broward and Palm Beach, and can be installed virtually anywhere, and accommodate common tread and rise dimensions. Treads and risers can be selected by color to form unique patterns and textures.
Key Factors
Location
Where will the paver steps sit? What is the grade of the soil? Is additional reinforcement needed, such as a retaining wall? These types of questions will help you sort out the details of your outdoor steps project, and select the best outdoors steps design for south Florida.
Dimensions/Size
Are the pavers you prefer appropriate for the size of the project? There are so many available options when choosing pavers the decision can become difficult. Involving a paver step professional at this point is a great idea, as they will have the latest designs available.
Safety Requirements
Safety is first and foremost when professionals design a set of outdoor paver steps. The rise, or what the vertical distance is from step to step, is critical for safely using the steps, as is the depth of the tread, which is the part you walk on.
Design Styles For Broward and Palm Beach
With professional help, any homeowner can design a durable, beautiful set of outdoor steps using pavers. Not only will the project likely cost less than traditional construction, but will also require exponentially less maintenance over time. Pavers are available in a huge variety of colors and textures, which can be combined for effect.
Color, Texture, and Edge Options
Paver steps do not require any curing, drying, or other process before they can be used. Hundreds of color, texture, and edge options can be combined for a truly unique look.
Cost and Maintenance
What Affects the Price Of Paver Steps?
Generally, the overall cost of an outdoor steps project will depend on the design, size, and location of the project. The best way to get an accurate estimate is to request a free one from a local paver steps pro.
Maintenance tips for long-lasting steps (cleaning, sealing)
Keeping your pavers in good condition is very easy. A simple wash every now and then is it takes, but you can add extra life by applying a sealer. These sealers keep tiny dust and dirt particles from lodging themselves into the pavers, so they look new for years to come.
Comparing Cost-Effectiveness Of Pavers vs. Concrete Over Time
Concrete is considerably more expensive than paver steps for a few reasons. Concrete usually requires machinery, lots of labor, yet still cracks and fades. Resealing and painting concrete is messy and expensive, but the only way to protect it outdoors.
Paver steps are less expensive to install, require virtually no costly maintenance, and offer virtually unlimited design options.
Need Help Choosing Paver Steps For Your Project?
In Broward and Palm Beach counties, you can do no better than to replace your old outdoor steps with more modern, durable, outdoor paver steps. To get the answers you need right away, click here to speak with a professional at Perfect Pavers of South Florida. They will answer all of your questions, and maybe a few you didn’t know you should ask.
