New Concrete Driveway Installation Guide

Everything you need to know about installing a durable concrete driveway that withstands Florida weather.

By Ridgeback Builders
New Concrete Driveway Installation Guide

Adding a gazebo, pergola, shed, or any other outdoor structure to your Florida property is a great way to expand your living space, entertain guests, and increase property value. But the success of that addition depends on a solid foundation — specifically, a properly built concrete slab.
At Ridgeback Builders, we've poured concrete pads and foundations for homeowners across Fort Myers, Naples, Port Charlotte, Sarasota, Tampa, Bradenton, West Palm Beach, and Port St. Lucie. Whether you're adding a shed, workshop, or outdoor retreat, her's everything you need to know before installing a slab.

Emergency response

Identify the Structure for Shed

For sheds, we recommend:

  • 4–6 inches of slab thickness
  • Vapor barrier to control moisture from the ground
  • Over 3000 PSI reinforced concrete
  • Control joints to minimize concrete cracking

Identify the Structure Gazebo or Pergola

For Gazebo or Pergola, we recommend:

  • A clean, level finish with decorative options
  • Built-in deep footers (perimeter) for post anchoring
  • Slope planning for water runoff
  • Aesthetic touches like colored concrete or stamped finishes
Build & Implementation

Concrete Mix and Finishing Options

Ridgeback Builders uses the right mix for Florida's hot and humid conditions. Our standard is over 3,000 PSI concrete, with optional air-entrainment or additives for extra moisture resistance.

  • Smooth or broom finish
  • Stamped patterns, colored concrete, or exposed aggregate
  • Slip-resistant coatings
  • UV-stable sealers

Anchoring and Florida Code Compliance

Outdoor structures must meet Florida Building Code wind-load requirements. That means we embed anchor bolts, tie-downs, or post brackets based on the slab type and local wind zone.
In a Naples project, Ridgeback Builders installed a 10x14 shed slab with hurricane-rated tie-downs and passed all inspections on the first visit.

Ready to Start?

We blend smart design with technical excellence to build projects that last and impress.

Serving Lehigh Acres, Fort Myers, Naples, Port Charlotte, Sarasota, Tampa, Bradenton, West Palm Beach, Port St. Lucie, and nearby cities.

New Concrete Driveway Installation Guide | Ridgeback Builders