Why Your Pool Deck, Lanai, or Walkway Deserves the Best (Hint: It’s Not Concrete!)
Welcome to the ultimate resurfacing showdown, where we pit rubber surfacing against traditional materials like concrete, pavers, and tile. This isn’t just a technical deep dive—it’s a real, no-nonsense look at what works best for your home or business.
At FLOCO Decking Systems, we know firsthand that choosing the right surfacing isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about safety, durability, and making sure you don’t waste money on repairs down the road. We’ve seen it all: cracked concrete, slippery tiles that turn into ice rinks when wet, and pavers that become a jungle gym for weeds.
So, let’s break it all down. What really makes the best choice for your pool deck, lanai, sidewalk, or playground? Stick with us, and by the end of this, you’ll know why rubber surfacing is taking over Southwest Florida (and why your neighbor with the cracked pool deck wishes they’d called us first).
1. Durability & Longevity: Which One Lasts the Longest?
When you’re investing in resurfacing, you want something that holds up for years, not just looks good for a few seasons. Let’s see how the contenders stack up.
Concrete: Strong But Not Indestructible
Concrete is known for its strength, but let’s be honest—it cracks. Florida’s heat and humidity are brutal on concrete, and if you’ve got a pool, the constant exposure to water and pool chemicals makes it even worse. Once cracks start, they only get bigger, and fixing them? Not cheap.
Pavers: Looks Good… Until It Doesn’t
Pavers have that nice, clean aesthetic, but over time, they shift and settle, creating uneven surfaces. Not only that, but the gaps between pavers become prime real estate for weeds. Before you know it, you’re spending weekends pulling weeds instead of relaxing on your lanai.
Tile: Beautiful But a Maintenance Nightmare
Tile is great when it’s new, but if you’ve ever walked barefoot on a wet tile surface, you know it’s like playing slip-and-slide with your ankles on the line. Cracked or chipped tiles can also become an eyesore (and a tripping hazard).
Rubber Surfacing: Built to Last, Designed for Comfort
Now, let’s talk about FLOCO Rubber Surfacing. Our rubber surfaces are designed to be ultra-durable, heat-resistant, and flexible. They don’t crack, shift, or develop weeds. Plus, because they’re laid thick and bonded together, they absorb impact and movement without breaking down. Unlike concrete or tile, rubber surfacing stays intact for 15+ years with minimal maintenance.
Winner: Rubber Surfacing
Concrete and pavers just can’t handle Florida’s weather the way rubber does. And tile? Well, that’s just a lawsuit waiting to happen.
2. Safety: Which Surface is Best for Bare Feet and Kids?
Whether you’re walking out to your pool, playing with the grandkids, or running a business that sees heavy foot traffic, safety is a top priority.
Concrete: Hot and Hard
Bare feet on concrete in Florida? Ouch. It absorbs heat like a sponge, making it feel like you’re walking on a stovetop. Plus, if you slip, concrete doesn’t forgive—it bruises, scrapes, and breaks bones.
Pavers: Uneven and Tricky
Pavers might seem like a safer bet, but they can shift over time, creating trip hazards. Also, those little edges between each paver? They’re ankle-twisters in disguise.
Tile: A Slip-and-Fall Disaster
Tile is the worst offender when it comes to safety. It’s notoriously slippery when wet, making it a major hazard for pools and outdoor spaces.
Rubber Surfacing: Cushioned and Slip-Resistant
Rubber surfacing is the gold standard for safety. It’s slip-resistant—even when wet—so no more worrying about kids running around the pool. Plus, if someone does take a tumble, the soft, cushioned surface absorbs impact, reducing the risk of serious injury.
Winner: Rubber Surfacing
Unless you enjoy playing “guess who’s going to the ER today,” rubber surfacing is the clear choice for safety.
3. Aesthetic Appeal: What Looks Best Over Time?
Looks matter—no one wants an ugly lanai or a pool deck that screams “fix me.”
Concrete: Plain and Prone to Stains
Concrete is the basic option, and while you can get it stamped or stained, it still fades and stains over time.
Pavers: Beautiful but High Maintenance
Pavers can be stunning, but unless you’re pressure-washing them regularly, they can collect grime, mold, and moss. Plus, uneven shifting can ruin the look over time.
Tile: Fancy but Fragile
Tile looks great when it’s first installed, but cracks and discoloration can make it look old fast. Replacing one broken tile is a pain, and matching the color is nearly impossible.
Rubber Surfacing: 100% Customizable and Always Vibrant
With FLOCO Rubber Surfacing, you get a fully customizable look. Choose from a variety of colors, blends, and even custom in-lay designs. Unlike other materials, rubber doesn’t fade, crack, or lose its visual appeal over time. Plus, it complements tropical landscapes beautifully.
Winner: Rubber Surfacing
No weeds, no stains, no fading. Just a gorgeous, custom-designed surface that stays beautiful for years.
4. Maintenance: How Much Work Are You Willing to Put In?
We’re all for DIY projects—but not when it comes to constant repairs and maintenance.
Concrete: Regular Repairs Needed
Once cracks start, they don’t stop. Sealing concrete can help, but it’s a repetitive, costly process.
Pavers: Endless Weeding and Leveling
Pavers require routine pressure washing, re-leveling, and constant weed control.
Tile: Cleaning and Replacing Chipped Pieces
Tile needs to be cleaned regularly to prevent mildew, and when one tile breaks, replacing it is a hassle.
Rubber Surfacing: Low Maintenance and Long-Lasting
With rubber surfacing, there’s virtually no maintenance. A simple rinse or occasional pressure wash is all it takes to keep it looking brand new. No cracks, no weeds, no endless repairs.
Winner: Rubber Surfacing
Less maintenance means more time enjoying your space.
5. Cost: What’s the Best Investment?
Let’s talk about the bottom line.
Concrete: Cheaper Upfront, Expensive Over Time
While concrete is one of the more affordable options at first, repairs and maintenance add up fast.
Pavers: Mid-Range Cost with High Maintenance Fees
Pavers are a moderate upfront investment but require regular upkeep, which can get pricey.
Tile: Expensive and High-Maintenance
Tile is one of the more expensive choices, and because of its fragility, replacement costs add up.
Rubber Surfacing: Worth Every Penny
FLOCO Rubber Surfacing is a premium product, but you get what you pay for. It lasts 15+ years, requires minimal upkeep, and increases the value of your home or business. Plus, the safety benefits and comfort are unmatched.
Winner: Rubber Surfacing
An investment that saves you money in the long run.
Final Verdict: The Ultimate Champion?
✅ Durability → Rubber Surfacing
✅ Safety → Rubber Surfacing
✅ Aesthetic Appeal → Rubber Surfacing
✅ Low Maintenance → Rubber Surfacing
✅ Best Long-Term Value → Rubber Surfacing
It’s not even close—rubber surfacing wins across the board.
So, if you’re tired of cracks, burns, and slip hazards, it’s time to Get Flocofied. Call us today for a free quote and let’s transform your space into something that’s beautiful, safe, and built to last.
☎️ 239-426-8045
📍 Serving Southwest Florida
Ditch the old-school surfaces. Choose rubber. Choose FLOCO.
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