Not all pavers perform equally in Central Florida's climate. With intense UV exposure, heavy summer rain, high humidity and the occasional cold snap, the material you choose matters a great deal. In this guide we'll walk through the four most popular paver types used in Ocoee, Winter Garden, Kissimmee and surrounding areas — and tell you which performs best for each application.
1. Concrete Interlocking Pavers
Concrete Pavers — Best Overall Choice for Florida
Concrete interlocking pavers are by far the most popular choice for Florida driveways and patios — and for good reason. They're manufactured to tight tolerances, rated for heavy vehicle loads, and available in dozens of colors, textures and shapes.
Florida performance: Concrete pavers handle heat well due to their interlocked structure — each unit expands individually rather than as one continuous slab. Joints also allow water to drain, which is critical during Florida's wet season. UV fading is minimal with quality sealed pavers.
Best for: Driveways, patios, walkways, pool decks. The all-around workhorse of Florida hardscaping.
Typical installed cost: $10–$16 per sq ft in Central Florida
2. Travertine Pavers
Travertine — Premium Choice for Pool Decks
Travertine is a natural limestone that has become one of the most popular pool deck materials in Central Florida — and it's easy to see why. It stays significantly cooler underfoot than concrete, even in direct midday sun, because its porous surface reflects more heat and doesn't conduct it to bare feet as aggressively.
Florida performance: Excellent heat performance. Natural pores provide slip resistance even when wet. However, travertine can require periodic sealing to prevent staining from pool chemicals, leaves and organic material.
Best for: Pool decks, luxury patios, upscale entry driveways in communities like Watermark or Windermere.
Typical installed cost: $16–$26 per sq ft in Central Florida
3. Porcelain Pavers
Porcelain — The Modern Premium Option
Porcelain pavers are growing rapidly in popularity for high-end Florida outdoor spaces. They're extremely dense (water absorption near zero), UV stable, resistant to staining and available in large-format sizes that create a sleek, modern aesthetic.
Florida performance: Outstanding resistance to moisture, mold, mildew and chemicals. They won't fade, chip or absorb pool water. Lighter colors stay relatively cool in the sun. Cutting requires diamond blades and skill.
Best for: Luxury patios, modern pool decks, outdoor dining areas in new construction or upscale renovations.
Typical installed cost: $18–$30 per sq ft in Central Florida
4. Clay Brick Pavers
Clay Brick — Classic Look, Proven Durability
Fired clay bricks have been used for paving for centuries — and they remain a popular choice for homeowners wanting a classic, timeless aesthetic. Unlike concrete pavers, the color in clay brick is baked in, not applied, so it won't fade over decades.
Florida performance: Clay brick is very durable but can be slightly more slippery when wet compared to textured concrete. Also tends to absorb more heat than travertine. Excellent for walkways and front entry paths where heavy vehicle traffic isn't a concern.
Best for: Walkways, front entry paths, garden borders, historic or craftsman-style homes near downtown Winter Garden or Ocoee.
Typical installed cost: $14–$22 per sq ft in Central Florida
Our Recommendation for Central Florida Homeowners
- Driveway: Standard concrete interlocking pavers — best value, handles vehicle load, dozens of colors
- Patio: Tumbled concrete pavers or travertine — depends on budget and aesthetic
- Pool deck: Travertine — unmatched heat performance, naturally slip-resistant
- Walkway: Tumbled concrete or clay brick — classic look, excellent curb appeal
- Luxury outdoor spaces: Porcelain — modern, virtually maintenance-free
Not Sure Which Paver Is Right for You?
We'll show you samples at your property and help you pick the right material for your style, soil and budget. Free estimate — no obligation.