Designing a Hardscape Design with Concrete Pavers

If you’re feeling bored and dissatisfied with your current landscape and would like to give it a makeover without spending too much money, concrete pavers are the perfect solution.

Concrete pavers are designed and manufactured to look just like natural stone, featuring interesting cuts, textures, shapes and colors – all at an affordable price. They’re simple to work with, are extremely strong and durable and they provide users with a wide number of design possibilities.

So how can you come up with the perfect design for your dream hardscape using concrete pavers? This post features some of our top hardscape design tips so that you can get the most out of your upcoming project.

Pinpoint Your Motives

Why are you planning on using concrete pavers in your hardscape design to begin with? Are you looking for a way to create an attractive and clear path from your backyard to your swimming pool?

Or do you need a space large enough to accommodate your barbecue, your patio furniture and your closest family and friends? It’s important to sit down and really think about what’s motivating you to give your landscape a makeover.

This will make it easier for you to begin visualizing the overall design and lay the groundwork for all of your other hardscape design plans.

Research Leading Products

Not all concrete pavers are created equally. In order to ensure that you end up working with the highest quality materials, it’s important that you spend some time doing a little bit of investigative work.

Find out who the biggest brand names are in the concrete paver manufacturing business. During this research phase, you’re very likely to come across brand names like Techo-Bloc, Belgard and Cambridge Pavingstones.

These three industry giants have cornered the market on designing and engineering gorgeous concrete pavers that look and feel exactly like natural stone, and they all offer affordable prices. Each of these brands have earned solid reputations for using care and precision throughout the manufacturing process, as well as guaranteeing quality and consistency.

Visit a Local Showroom

Now that you have a better idea about which brands you might be interested in, you’ve probably begun looking through their website portfolios to discover what styles of concrete pavers they have for sale. Seeing an image online is one thing, but being able to see the pavers in person is so much better.

This is why it’s such a good idea to find a local showroom that displays samples of outdoor living spaces and completed projects featuring the concrete pavers from the brands that you have expressed interest in.

Having the ability to see the full-dimensional appearance of these pavers within the context of an outdoor living space, patio furnishings and other hardscaping features will allow you to get the best idea about which pavers would be best for your own hardscape design.

Request Samples

Whether looking online or visiting a showroom, you might find that you fall in love with a specific color of a concrete paver. While the color might look fabulous in the model, or within the scope of someone else’s landscape, it still may be difficult for you to tell whether or not the shade is a good match for your property.

The best way to make up your mind about color is to request samples from the manufacturer. Most concrete paver manufacturers will mail samples to you for free so that you can compare various shades and hues and settle on the perfect fit for your home.

Look Through Design Books

When visiting the websites of leading concrete paver manufacturers, you’ll find that many of them offer tools for inspiring your hardscape design, including design books. These books will feature some of the many projects that specific types of concrete pavers have been used for and featured in.

Browsing through these collections of photos will give you ideas about how other homeowners have incorporated concrete pavers into their hardscape design, and will get your creative juices flowing so that you can come up with a brilliant and exciting hardscape design plan of your own.

Use Hardscape Design Software

We also strongly suggest that you consider making use of helpful hardscape design software tools. These can often be found online, and can be used to help simplify the design process and help you make better decisions.

One of the best things about a design software is that it can take all of the measurements of your yard into consideration and help you create a design that is sized to scale. You’ll have a much better understanding of exactly how your finished project will look in proportion to the remainder of your landscape and its different features, so that you can size things appropriately.

You can use software tools to place other outdoor features like fireplaces on your concrete paver patio and see what it will look like before actually beginning the project. This will also help you make sure that you have enough room to accommodate everything you want to include into your design, while also having plenty of room to move around.

With some design software tools, you’ll find that you can even upload images or drawings for a more accurate or realistic representation of the finished work, while others give you a 3D look and allow you to “fly through” the design and see how it looks from all angles.

Hire a Professional

Some homeowners prefer to hire a professional to join them and help them make smart decisions about their hardscape design plan. Professional landscapers can be very valuable in providing input on how certain concrete pavers may work together or how they can complement other landscaping and architectural features throughout a property.

You don’t just have to hire landscapers, though. Contractors that have been authorized to work with specific concrete paver manufacturers can provide valuable insight when it comes to the design process, and can even provide you with exclusive access to software design tools that might further influence your hardscape design.

Creating Your Perfect Hardscape Design in NJ

When you’re ready to get going with your upcoming hardscape project, Braen Supply is ready to help. As experts in the landscaping and hardscaping industry, our team is perfectly positioned to answer any questions you may have about hardscape design.

We are authorized as dealers for the top brands in concrete paver manufacturing, ensuring that we always have access to the latest product offerings and information.

Feel free to visit our showroom for inspiration. Our concrete paving materials are available at competitive prices and can be picked up or bulk delivered to locations throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC and PA.

5 Patio Pavers for Every Home Style

Could a paver patio be just the thing that your home needs? If you’ve been looking for a way to upgrade your landscape and get more use out of your outdoor living space, we strongly urge you to consider selecting a beautiful paving material in order to establish a gorgeous and functional patio of your very own.

Paver patios are extremely affordable and increase the overall value of your home. Best of all, with so many different options available, it’s easy to find paving materials that match your unique sense of style while meeting your every need.

Here’s a look at five different types of patio pavers that are great to work with and information on how to pick the right one for your home.

1. Irregular Natural Flagstone Pavers

Natural stone is one of the most coveted types of hardscaping materials and homeowners fall in love with the concept of creating a fabulous patio area with incredible, natural flagstone. For those who are interested in creating a unique, visually appealing and extremely naturalistic outdoor living space, natural flagstone pavers with an irregular cut are the way to go.

As the name indicates, this type of stone is broken down into paver-sized pieces in a manner that results in irregular cuts, shapes and sizes. When installed as a patio, the flooring is given an exciting “mosaic” appearance, with jagged and irregular edges that will catch the attention of anyone.

There are many options available for those who have fallen in love with the irregular style of this type of natural flagstone paver. Stone manufacturers and suppliers like Braen Supply offer a full inventory of irregular flagstone pavers in an array of colors and styles.

This makes it easy for you to find the product that suits your individual tastes while still meeting your functional needs. You’ll be able to choose from popular materials like:

All Blue Bluestone
Full Color Bluestone
Tennessee Gray
Tennessee Buff
Idaho Quartz Charcoal
Idaho Quartz Silver
South Bay Quartz
Norwegian Buff

2. Dimensional Natural Flagstone Pavers

Some homeowners are sold on the idea of working with natural stone pavers for their upcoming patio installations, but they aren’t necessarily interested in utilizing stones that feature such irregular cuts and shapes. Here, we suggest taking a look at dimensional natural flagstone pavers.

Instead of chiseling away at a large slab of stone and letting the pieces develop as they may, stone manufacturers work to cut the beautiful stone into square or rectangular shapes that feature clean lines and angles. This makes it possible for homeowners to develop modular designs and geometrically pleasing patterns.

It is even possible to achieve perfect symmetry when installing well-crafted dimensional cut natural flagstone pavers. As in the case of its irregular cut counterpart, dimensional natural flagstone pavers are readily available in a number of colors and styles.

Each different variety of dimensional flagstone features its own uniquely beautiful shades and hues, as well as rich and inviting textures. Be sure to look through all of your options in order to select the right type of flagstone for your patio project. Popular choices include:

Lilac Natural Cleft
Kearney Thermal
Tennessee Buff Honed
Natural Gray Tennessee
Sahara Granite Pattern
Indiana Limestone Pattern

3. Concrete Pavers

Everyone loves the look and feel of natural stone, but not everyone can afford the luxury of building a large outdoor patio or other outdoor living space feature that is completely surfaced with natural stone. Fortunately, you don’t have to compromise your tastes and sense of style for cost.

There are several excellent manufacturers of concrete pavers. These companies employ highly skilled designers and engineers who are able to match the exact look and texture of natural stone, all while using a more affordable concrete material.

The possibilities are limitless, here, because the design of the “stone” is only limited by the designer’s imagination. You’ll find concrete pavers with dimensional cuts, irregular cuts, bold colors, subtle tones, modern style, classic design and everything in-between.

No matter what look you’re trying to establish, you’ll be able to make it into a reality with manufactured stone. The material is always of the same, consistent quality, and is designed to be able to withstand the elements and frequent traffic. It’s easy to maintain and doesn’t scratch or stain easily. The leading brands for concrete pavers are:

Belgard Pavers
Cambridge Pavingstones
Techo-Bloc

4. Porcelain Pavers

Porcelain has been growing increasingly popular as a paving material for patios throughout recent years. Despite the fact that porcelain dolls and china have long been regarded as fragile or delicate, it’s important to understand that porcelain is actually a very strong and durable material.

In fact, in paver form, porcelain is often harder and stronger than concrete. This means that when it’s installed, it will be strong and reliable – even when subject to high volumes of traffic and moving patio furniture.

You also won’t have to worry about scratching or scraping. Porcelain is very beautiful and can be crafted to emulate the look of both natural stone and natural wood. The options for design are limitless.

5. Clay Brick Pavers

Never underestimate the subtle elegance and classic beauty of clay brick pavers. Clay has a rich history of being used in construction and architectural projects throughout the centuries, and it has also made its mark in terms of being a reliable and beloved paving material.

Just because we don’t pave our streets with brick anymore doesn’t mean that it’s not a great option for surfacing your beautiful home patio. The soft yet rich brown and red tones of brick are often very familiar and welcoming to eyes, establishing a sense of ease and comfort.

This makes it the perfect material for creating an outdoor “floor” in areas where you intend to relax and unwind. The timeless appeal of brick ensures that it will continue to look beautiful and maintain its value in the many years ahead.

Another significant advantage to working with brick is that it’s very good about holding its place, even when the ground beneath begins to shift. This means that you won’t have to worry about expensive repairs down the line. Clay brick pavers are very affordable, easy to install and require very little maintenance.

Buying Patio Paver Materials in NJ

Braen Supply is the largest and most comprehensive supplier of paver materials for patio projects in all of NJ and its surrounding areas. Our massive showroom features natural stone, manufactured products and brick all in one location so that you can evaluate all of your options and make the choice that’s best for your backyard.

We are well connected with the leading manufacturers of concrete and porcelain pavers so that you can get the biggest variety of material options at the most affordable prices. We offer the most competitive prices on the market and are always happy to answer any questions you may have.

Our patio paver materials can be picked up at our location or can be delivered to job sites throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC and PA.

Find a Patio Design That Works for You

Creating an outdoor living space often begins with patio design. No matter how large or small, a patio acts as the foundation for your entire outdoor living area, tying multiple areas of the property together and establishing an area for you to relax and gather with loved ones.

This means that you need to put a lot of careful thought and consideration into your patio design plans. How can you make sure that you come up with design plans that will suit your needs and wants both now and in the future? The following guide will help you throughout the patio design process.

Begin with Patio Function

Before anything else, you need to make some decisions about how you would like your patio to function within the scope of your property. Will the space be used primarily as the flooring for your outdoor living room?

Are you looking to establish a floor for your outdoor kitchen or fire pit? Or perhaps you’re planning on installing a gorgeous yet practical deck around your swimming pool or hot tub.

Depending on how you intend to utilize your new patio, you’ll need to keep certain things in mind for patio design. An outdoor living room, for example, will be exposed to high volumes of foot traffic and will also be subject to the movement of patio tables, chairs and other furnishings.

This means that you’ll need to select a paving material that not only looks beautiful and reflects your personal sense of style, but that is also durable and tough. When choosing a material for a patio that will be located in close proximity to a fire pit, outdoor fireplace, pizza oven or other heat-producing appliances, you’ll need to make sure that you select a product that doesn’t retain heat, isn’t harmed by high temperatures and is non-combustible.

You’ll also want to find a material that’s easy to clean and is resistant to stains if you plan on preparing or serving food on your patio. And, of course, if you’re building a patio around your swimming areas, you’ll want to find materials that are slip-resistant and that won’t be negatively impacted by pool chemicals.

Consider Your Options

Now that you know how you intend to use your new patio, it’s time to consider the options that you have in terms of paving materials. Some of the most popular materials used for surfacing home patios include:

Natural Stone

Natural stone has long been a popular option for establishing a beautiful, durable and highly functional patio space. Natural stone is perceived as classically elegant, sophisticated and valuable.

There are many different types of natural stone that you could choose for surfacing your patio, depending on your desires.

Flagstone with an irregular cut can help you create a romantic and charming space that is one with nature, whereas thermal cut Bluestone or materials with a dimensional cut can help you create a more modern chic style. Be sure to visit the showroom of a natural stone manufacturer and supplier to get a better idea about your options.

Concrete and Porcelain Pavers

For those who don’t want to spend as much money on their patio design, but who also don’t want to sacrifice beauty and quality, concrete and porcelain pavers are an excellent alternative.

These manufactured, faux “stone” pavers offer the same coloring, texturing, cut and feel of natural stone, but are much more affordable and consistent in their quality.

Local stone and hardscaping manufacturers will have partnerships with concrete and porcelain paver manufacturers and will help you choose the best materials for your design.

Loose Fill

You don’t have to use solid stone or faux stone pavers in order to create a beautiful patio. In fact, many homeowners enjoy surfacing their patio areas with loose fill materials like pea gravel. This is an affordable solution that offers a great deal of patio design flexibility and beauty.

Consider Edging Materials

Numerous homeowners make the decision to mark the perimeters of their patios with attractive edging materials. This can help to draw even more attention to the area and allow the materials you’ve used to surface your patio to really “pop”.

You might consider working with flagstone, smaller stone pavers, concrete pavers, beautiful brick edging pieces, etc. Consult a professional for advice.

Plan Your Patio’s Layout

Now it’s time to start thinking about how the patio should be installed and laid out throughout your property. Ultimately, the design layout of your patio will depend on several different factors.

First, you’ll need to consider any limitations that your property might have. This means having a professional (such as a utility provider) visit your property and determine where any underground power lines, pipes and other utilities might be located.

This will help you work around any areas that might cause problems during the installation. Next, you’ll need to consider the overall size and layout of your property.

If you’ve got a massive back yard, a small patio might look strange, whereas a small yard can quickly become dominated by an oversized patio. Properties that feature curves, sharp angles or irregular shaping might look weird with the straight edges of a square patio, and could benefit from a rounded patio area instead.

Finally, it’s important to consider your own personal tastes and style interests. Have fun with your patio design plans! After all, you’re going to enjoy your finished project for a long time.

Utilize Patio Design Software

Thinking about your patio design plans in your head is one thing, but actually bringing your vision to life is a completely different story. Sometimes what you imagine will work beautifully will come up short of your expectations and leave you disappointed.

In other cases, plans that you wouldn’t have thought would work for your property make for a spectacular design. Making use of a good patio design software tool will help you determine what works (and what doesn’t) for your property before you execute the job.

This means that you have the ability to play around with all of your options before locking in your final plans. You’ll be able to see how your patio would look in different areas of your backyard, test different types of stone and even get a 3D look at how the patio would work within the scope of other landscaping and architectural features.

You’ll have a lot of fun while establishing the peace of mind that your completed patio installation will meet your every need.

Designing and Installing Patios in NJ

NJ homeowners choose to come to Braen Supply with all of their patio design and installation needs. As industry experts, our team is more than happy to work with people like you to discuss your needs, wants and plans for installing your dream patio.

We offer a massive inventory of patio construction materials, including natural stone, manufactured “stone” and loose fill gravel. All of our materials are of the highest quality and are available at fair and competitive prices.

Our patio materials can be picked up or bulk delivered to project sites throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC and PA.

Restore Your Home with These 10 Hardscape Design Tips

Your home’s hardscape plays a significant role. It adds a great deal of beauty to your entire landscape, and helps to marry your landscaping features to your architectural features, creating a sense of uniformity and coherency.

Next, it adds to the overall value of your property. Finally, a hardscape sets the tone for your outdoor living style and needs.

So how can you design an incredible hardscape that will improve your overall property? Here are 10 tips for creating the hardscape design of your dreams.

1. Evaluate Your Space

The first step in hardscape design is evaluating the space that you actually have to work with. You may think that you can just plop a patio down anywhere you please, but if there are underground utilities, difficult soil or slopes standing in your way, you could be facing a lot of challenges.

It’s a good idea to have a professional take a look at your property in order to help you find the best space for updating your hardscape and to assist you with the process of maximizing that space.

2. Consider the Function

Design is about more than just esthetics. Yes, you want your hardscape to be breathtaking and beautiful, but you also want it to be practical and functional.

Although it’s easy to fall in love with a specific hardscaping material and be tempted to employ it you have to consider whether it’s the best material to work with.

Choosing a type of paver or slab that can’t handle exposure to chemicals, for example, will mean a lot of expensive headaches for those who have installed these products around a swimming pool. Know how you intend to use your materials and make sure that they not only match your style, but that they also will meet your day-to-day needs.

3. Evaluate Existing Themes/Styles

What types of landscaping and architectural features already exist throughout your property? Considering what you already have and making an effort to add onto that with your hardscaping upgrades will help you to get the most out of your budget and will also ensure that your property remains cohesive and beautiful.

4. Be True to Your Budget

Only you know what you can and cannot afford. When it comes to making the decisions during your hardscaping process, your budget should always be in mind.

When deciding whether to work with natural stone or manufactured materials, or whether you should install the materials on your own or hire a professional, it’s important to have a thorough understanding of your budgetary needs and stick to them.

5. Visit a Showroom

Looking at various hardscaping materials online is one thing, but having the ability to check them out in person is completely different. Make a plan to visit a local showroom that features an array of natural and manufactured hardscaping materials so that you can see them with your own eyes.

6. Use Online Hardscape Design Tools

You don’t just have to cross your fingers and hope that your hardscaping materials end up looking okay within the scope of your landscape. Numerous online hardscape design software tools exist that allow you to get a comprehensive, multi-dimensional look at what your finished project will look like.

7. Consider the Future

What’s in style this year may be completely out-of-date next year. Make sure that you consider the future when working on your hardscape design plans today.

There’s nothing wrong with having a modern sense of style or wanting to incorporate specific trends into your outdoor living space, but you need to be prepared to live with your decisions for a long time. Hardscapes are built to last, and when the proper materials are utilized and are correctly cared for, they can remain beautiful and functional for generations.

The best thing to do is to settle on timeless materials that can be versatile in their styling. From here, you can use outdoor furnishings and vegetation to create whatever type of theme you wish to establish. The latter are much easier to change and update as hardscaping and landscaping styles evolve.

8. Prioritize

In many cases, hardscape designs starts out relatively simple. Perhaps you are only planning on constructing a simple patio, or a single garden path.

From here, though, you may start to dream of more. Wouldn’t an outdoor kitchen be smart? And wouldn’t you love to have a kitchen with all of the features, including new appliances, granite countertops, a stone pizza oven and an outdoor fireplace?

You may have the funds to take care of everything in one fell swoop. In many instances, though, all of your dream hardscaping plans may be out of you current price range.

That’s okay. Sitting down and prioritizing your plans will help you settle on the best place to start, and to create a roadmap for your future plans so that you can achieve your goals.

9. Think About Maintenance

It’s easy to get extremely swept up in your daydreams about your sprawling and elegant new hardscape design and forget to keep your feet firmly planted on the ground. An elaborate hardscape design with all sorts of nooks and crannies might sound exciting and unique on paper, but you also need to make sure that your design plans are practical and sustainable.

For the most part, hardscaping materials are generally quite simple to maintain and care for, but you do need to take the time to be absolutely certain that you’re selecting materials that you can handle the upkeep for, and that mesh with your lifestyle. If you’ve got kids who frequently spill their food and drinks, for instance, you’ll want to avoid porous materials that are more challenging for stain removal.

If you are installing a walkway or driveway in NJ, you need to make sure that you choose materials that are compatible with ice melting products and extremely cold weather. Planning ahead will make your life a lot easier in the long run.

10. Get a Professional Opinion

Many homeowners end up making the decision to either hire a hardscape design professional, or to run their own hardscape design plans by an expert before moving forward with the construction process.

Professional input can help you to maximize your space, keep you focused and on track with your primary goals and ensure that you end up with an outdoor living space that you’ll be in love with – both now and in the many years ahead.

Hardscape Design Made Simple in NJ

The experts at Braen Supply are happy to help you create your perfect hardscape design for your home. As the leading landscaping and hardscaping supplier in NJ, we offer a massive inventory of 100% natural and high quality manufactured hardscaping materials to suit your every need.

We can connect you with industry experts who can assist you with the design process, or we can point you in the direction of excellent hardscape design software tools that are available online. Once you’re ready to get your plans underway, we’ll set you up with the very best materials at the lowest and most competitive prices.

Our hardscaping materials can be picked up at your leisure, or can be bulk delivered to areas throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC and PA.

The 5 Outdoor Porcelain Paver Styles That Homeowners Are Falling In Love With

When it comes to hardscaping, homeowners have traditionally enjoyed the luxury of choosing between beautifully manufactured concrete or brick pavers. In recent years, however, a growing number of folks have begun to take notice of a third compelling option: porcelain.

Porcelain slabs or pavers are a variety of cultured stone that are designed and engineered to emulate other natural materials, like stone or wood, while offering superior strength and durability. At the same time, porcelain slabs are very affordable and easy to work with.

Could porcelain pavers give your hardscape the glamorous makeover you’ve been dreaming of? If you believe these fabulous materials could be the perfect fit for your home, take a look at some of the many ways that NJ homeowners are putting porcelain slabs to use.

By drawing inspiration from the following 5 styles, you’re sure to establish a stunning outdoor living space that will dazzle you and your guests.

1. Mediterranean Chic

Mediterranean style has grown extremely popular throughout the western world, and more and more NJ homeowners are learning to incorporate this style throughout their home’s interiors and exteriors.

Characterized by simple, neutral tones and smooth patterns with small “pops” of vibrant, bold colors and ornate decor, Mediterranean style makes it possible for homeowners and their guests to feel completely comfortable and relaxed while still creating a sense of upscale sophistication.

Porcelain slabs in soft shades of brown, tan, white, eggshell, or beige are the perfect base material for tying your entire outdoor living space together. Be sure to pick from tiles that only feature one color and that make use of very subtle texturing, or a smooth finish.

These pieces will create the upscale, neutral space that you crave for relaxation. The soft colors will look incredible when contrasted against the turquoise color of your swimming pool, for example.

You might incorporate splashes of turquoise, blue, teal, orange, yellow, or red throughout the space, whether it be added with an edging material, outdoor furniture, hardware on outdoor gates, etc. Have fun with your decorating because a strong, soft base will hold it all together.

2. Desert Oasis

Desert landscapes and hardscapes are especially intriguing and exciting for NJ homeowners because they provide us with an opportunity to enjoy an environment that we wouldn’t otherwise be exposed to.

Contrasting sharply against the typical green trees and grasses, and opposing the magnificent Jersey shore, desert landscaping embraces the subtle and simplistic beauty of the more barren areas of the world. Putting an emphasis on sandy tones like yellow, gold, beige, or tan, desert themes tend to be very relaxing and calming, acting as your own personal oasis.

To achieve this look, we suggest that you consider working to create a “sandy” floor comprised of porcelain tile in the aforementioned color families. Where possible, try to work with slabs that feature multiple shades swirled together for a more natural look.

This can also create excellent texturing that will make the tile appear even more like the desert floor. Because desert hardscaping and landscaping is so simplistic, the slabs won’t need bold or dramatic features to complete your outdoor living space. Consider simple, wooden or wicker outdoor furnishings and basic shapes with clean lines and edges.

3. Cozy Hardwood

Everyone loves the rich, luxurious beauty offered by hardwood flooring. Unfortunately, natural hardwood isn’t practical for use outdoors, so until recently, homeowners could only enjoy this look via interior decorating.

Porcelain tiles have completely changed the game, though. While some porcelain pavers are manufactured to emulate natural stone, others are finished with colors and textures associated with natural wood.

Deep, inviting shades of brown create warmth and comfort, establishing a space where you and your family can gather together for a cozy evening in your outdoor living or dining space. Because the “hardwood” appearance of these porcelain slabs can evoke such a strong sense of being at home, we often suggest that our customers consider incorporating other home comforts throughout their living areas.

You might decide to install a stunning outdoor fireplace, for example, or surround the space with furnishings that feature large, plush, oversized cushions for curling up with a good book. Whatever makes you feel most comfortable and relaxed will be the perfect fit for your faux hardwood flooring.

4. The Best of Both Worlds

We’d all love to be able to have our cake and eat it, too. This is especially true when homeowners are faced with decisions about whether they want their properties to feature lush, green grass and garden spaces, or stunning and sophisticated hardscape.

Some porcelain slabs are designed to work beautifully when situated side-by-side with grass and other vegetation. Consequently, many NJ homeowners are learning how to create stunning juxtapositions between hardscape and landscape by establishing checkerboard patterns or even spacing between one porcelain slab and an equal, square patch of grass.

You might even fill some of the spaces with miniature flower gardens or other beautiful plants. Ultimately, this will add a whole new dynamic of texturing and visual interest that will allow you to enjoy the best of both worlds.

5. Timeless Elegance

Simplicity goes a long way and lasts for a lifetime – and beyond! There’s something to be said for making the decision to go with a very basic, subtle and neutral style of porcelain tile that isn’t subscribed to any particular theme or style of decor.

One of the great things about porcelain slabs is that they are so strong, durable and long-lasting. Even when exposed to regular usage and wear-and-tear, they won’t become scratched or chipped. They also hold up beautifully when faced with other elements.

From exposure to UV rays to brutal freeze-and-thaw cycles, porcelain can handle it all. This means that, once installed, your porcelain slabs are going to be there for a long time. As such, you want to make sure that you’re going to continue to love the style you choose, and that it will continue to add value to your home rather than detract from it.

Going with a timelessly elegant and simplistically beautiful tile will allow you to be able to easily find patio furnishings and features that will compliment the porcelain. Sticking with basic, neutral tones and smooth texturing will ensure that your pavers won’t become dated or unsightly over time.

Buying Porcelain Pavers in NJ

When you’re ready to start working with cultured stone products like beautiful porcelain slabs, be sure to visit your local Braen Supply showroom. We work with the leading hardscaping manufacturers to ensure that our customers are able to choose from the loveliest and highest quality porcelain slabs on the market.

You’ll find a wide range of materials in various colors, shapes, textures and styles in order to accommodate all of our customer’s needs. Our staff is knowledgeable about all of the products we sell and can answer any questions you may have while offering valuable input and advice for your project.

We take pride in keeping our prices as low and competitive as possible. Our porcelain pavers can be picked up at your convenience or can be bulk delivered to areas throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC and PA.

The Top Benefits of Using Porcelain Pavers Around Your Pool

Want to make a big splash with your swimming pool deck or surrounding patio area? We urge you to consider working with a cultured stone like porcelain pavers.

This versatile material is taking the world of hardscaping by storm, as a growing number of NJ homeowners have begun to recognize the many benefits associated with working with porcelain units. So why have porcelain pavers become so popular in recent years?

What do you stand to gain from working with cultured stone products like these? And what is cultured stone anyway? This post will break down the answers to these questions by highlighting the numerous advantages to using porcelain pavers around your swimming pool.

What is Cultured Stone?

Before we proceed any further, we first need to establish what cultured stone products like porcelain pavers actually are. In the simplest terms, cultured stone refers to hardscaping products that are made from non-stone substances like concrete, or ceramics such as porcelain.

These products are then shaped, colored and textured in a manner that mirrors the exact look and feel of natural stone.

Unlike natural stone, though, porcelain pavers are lighter weight and less expensive. This makes it possible for any homeowner to enjoy natural beauty and elegance on a budget they can afford.

Why Choose Porcelain Pavers for Swimming Areas?

Now the question is, what is cultured stone going to do for you and your property? How do you stand to benefit from working with materials like porcelain pavers, and why should you choose these over alternative solutions like concrete pavers?

Here’s a look at some of the reasons why homeowners prefer to work with porcelain pavers over other hardscaping materials for their swimming pool decks and patios:

Beauty

No homeowner would have any interest in working with porcelain pavers if they weren’t visually appealing. Porcelain is easy to manufacture into a wide range of shapes, cuts, styles, colors, textures and finishes, making it possible to produce pavers that match up with the unique tastes and needs of homeowners throughout the country.

No matter what type of theme or style you’re trying to establish for your swimming area, you’ll find stunning porcelain pavers to complete the look. Porcelain pavers can be produced to emulate natural stone or even hardwood, depending on your preferences.

Slip Resistant

For obvious reasons, you want to take measures to ensure that your swimming pool deck is a safe space for your family and friends. This means finding a paving material that won’t become slippery when exposed to water.

Cultured stone like porcelain pavers have been designed with richly textured surfaces in order to add traction. In addition to this, porcelain pavers have a very low porosity which helps to facilitate faster draining and drying. This means that water won’t pool and remain stagnant on the pavers for extended periods of time.

Tough and Durable

Once installed, you can count on the fact that your porcelain pavers will hold their own and continue to meet your needs for many years. Porcelain is known for being extremely strong and durable, even when exposed to high volumes of foot traffic and regular usage.

Lightweight

The fact that porcelain pavers are so much lighter in weight than their natural stone or concrete counterparts is very beneficial throughout the transportation and installation process.

Lighter weight materials generally cost less to move due to lower fuel consumption, and you’ll also enjoy the ability to maneuver your pavers with increased speed and agility.

Scratch Resistant

Swimming pool decks and patios are frequently subjected to the regular sliding and moving of patio furniture, like lounge chairs and poolside tables. Fortunately, porcelain is an extremely dense and hard material.

As a result, the pavers are naturally able to resist the effects of scratching and marking. This means that you won’t have to worry about frequently replacing your pavers. Instead, they’ll continue to look as flawless as the day they were first installed throughout their lifetime.

Stain Resistant

People love to gather around the swimming pool for cocktails, snacks and other beverages. The last thing you want is for your stunning pool deck to become stained from spills.

Because porcelain pavers aren’t porous, both liquid and chemical spills won’t penetrate the pavers, thus creating a faster and simpler cleanup – with no stains!

Mold/Mildew Resistant

Mold and mildew love water, but they don’t love porcelain pavers. Once again, the low porosity of porcelain keeps excess moisture at bay, making sure that mold and mildew can’t grow or thrive near your swimming pool.

Lasting Color

Most porcelain pavers are colored all the way through, and all have had pigmentation baked into them at temperatures exceeding 1200 degrees Celsius. This means that the color actually becomes a part of the paver’s overall composition and will not fade when exposed to the sun.

Heavy Load Bearing

Remember how we mentioned that porcelain pavers are really dense, strong and tough? Well, that means that these fabulous paving units are able to support a lot of weight.

Frost Proof

What is cultured stone going to do about your wintertime woes? Unlike other materials that may crack when exposed to the freeze-and-thaw cycles of NJ winters, porcelain pavers are actually frost proof.

That’s because water can’t penetrate into the non-porous pavers, thus preventing ice from forming within, expanding and creating excess pressure.

Low Maintenance

Sealant and other protective coatings aren’t necessary for porcelain pavers around swimming pools. Simply sweeping and spraying down the pavers from time to time to remove dirt or debris will suffice to keep them looking beautiful and brilliant.

Affordable

On top of everything else, porcelain pavers remain one of the most affordable and cost-efficient solutions for paving a swimming pool deck or patio. It’s a great option for anyone looking to get the very most out of their investment.

Buying Porcelain Pavers in NJ

Now that we’ve addressed these various questions, it’s time to think about where homeowners like yourself can go to get the best deals on high quality cultured stone, such as porcelain pavers, in NJ and its surrounding regions.

For decades, Braen Supply has been the most trusted name in hardscaping materials throughout the Tri-State area. We carry a large inventory of beautiful porcelain pavers from some of the leading industry brands.

Our experts are familiar with all of our products and can provide you with detailed information and tips for working with each. We always offer the lowest and most competitive rates around. Our porcelain pavers can be picked up or bulk delivered to locations throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC and PA.

Porcelain Pavers Style Guide: Transform Your Backyard

Want to make a bold statement with your hardscape? Homeowners throughout NJ have embraced concrete pavers and slabs for decades, but it’s only been in recent years that people have discovered the value of porcelain pavers.

Porcelain makes an excellent option for surfacing any outdoor living space, whether it’s a place to wine and dine your dinner guests or an area for lounging beside the swimming pool. This is because porcelain is one of the strongest, most durable and most weatherproof hardscaping materials available on the market.

Of course, strength and longevity aren’t all that these unique pavers have to offer. NJ homeowners are absolutely smitten with the stunning styles, colors and textures that they have to choose from.

There are so many different ways to completely transform the entire look of your backyard with porcelain pavers, thus increasing your home’s value. This style guide will offer a glimpse into the world of hardscaping with porcelain, offering several inspirational ideas to get you started.

Swimming Pools

No swimming pool is complete without an attractive and reliable pool deck. Porcelain has become a top pick for constructing pool deck areas for several reasons. First of all, they’re absolutely stunning when contrasted against the shimmering, aqua waters of the swimming area.

Secondly, porcelain offers comfort and safety for swimmers. The texturing associated with porcelain makes it virtually slip-resistant, and the material will not absorb heat – even on the hottest NJ days.

In addition to all this, porcelain doesn’t allow water to accumulate or pool, thus eliminating issues with mold or mildew. Some of our favorite styles for around the swimming pool include:

Desert Oasis

Creating a desert-like setting around your swimming pool is a fabulous way to turn the water into a true focal point for your entire backyard. The welcoming sight of the waters will appeal to you and your guests each and every day.

The best way to establish a desert-type setting is to select porcelain pavers that are manufactured in shades of yellow, gold, or beige. It’s generally best to stick with pavers that feature only one or two tones, keeping things as simple as possible. Add drama to the space with the appropriate placement of desert-style boulders and crushed, decorative stone.

Greek Chic

Take your backyard swimming pool to the sophisticated and elegant Mediterranean. Greek style is based upon simplicity – neutral tones with small pops of color.

It’s easy to establish a strong base for this theme by selecting elegant, simplistic porcelain pavers in the white, eggshell, or cream color families. The blue waters will look magnificent against the porcelain, and you’ll find that the stone speaks for itself and only needs a few small accents to look truly incredible.

Spa Day

What’s more luxurious than lounging beside the pool or hot tub while enjoying a glamorous and relaxing spa day? The look of natural wood can really evoke this same sense of luxury, but the upkeep is simply ridiculous.

Who has the time or money to maintain a wooden deck that will warp or become rotted from rain over time? Fortunately, you can have your cake and eat it, too.

Porcelain pavers not only emulate the look of natural stone, but also of wood. This makes it easy for you to create the posh environment you crave without any of the hassle.

Outdoor Kitchens

Outdoor kitchens are all the rave in NJ and its neighboring states. Instead of running back and forth between the indoor kitchen and the outdoor living space, homeowners are taking advantage of their ability to prep meals from start to finish from the comfort of their fully stocked, gorgeous and affordable outdoor kitchens.

Keep in mind, selecting the finest stone countertops and the most beautiful stainless steel appliances will only take you so far. You need a stunning kitchen floor to tie the space together. That’s where porcelain tile comes into play.

Porcelain doesn’t easily scratch or stain, and because it doesn’t retain heat, it makes for an ideal cooking environment. On top of that, porcelain is absolutely beautiful and can be used to achieve different looks and styles:

Smooth and Sleek

Modern homeowners love the elegance of clean lines and simple colors. This chic look keeps the focus on the beautiful dishes being prepared by the cook, rather than becoming a distraction.

We recommend soft, subtle tones in the gray and white family, although other colors may be appropriate in cases where they would blend with natural stone and other materials used throughout the kitchen. Stick to one basic tone for simplicity.

Checker boarding

The “checkerboard” look has long been associated with kitchen flooring, and the classic style still remains popular with NJ homeowners. You can achieve this look by selecting porcelain tiles that are available in multiple colors and then creating an elegant checkerboard pattern by alternating between darker and lighter shades.

Have fun and be creative here. You don’t necessarily have to stick with the classic black and white. Instead, you could mimic the style in a more subtle manner by working with a dark gray and light gray, or with brown/tan and white.

Outdoor Living Rooms

Every NJ homeowner needs a peaceful, relaxing and beautiful space where they can gather with friends and family to enjoy their outdoor living areas.

After all, what’s better than coming together with the people you love most and lounging on your luxurious patio furniture and enjoy a crackling fire, compliments of your stunning, outdoor fireplace.

It’s the porcelain tile flooring, though, that’s acting as the foundation of the space, establishing warmth for all to enjoy. Porcelain can be used to establish specific themes:

Soft and Warm

Selecting porcelain tile that features the marbling or blending of two or more tones in the same color family can actually evoke the same sense of warmth and comfort as indoor carpet. This can really help you feel as though you’re gathered in a cozy living space.

Hardwood Delight

Porcelain pavers with a wood finish are among the most commonly selected flooring materials for outdoor living rooms. The hardwood look is one that has long withstood the tests of time, thus ensuring that your space will give off a sense of elegance and charm both now and in the many years to come.

The warm, rich brown tones look spectacular with nearly all types of outdoor patio furnishings and give the warm feeling of being safe at home when paired with the dancing flames of your spectacular natural stone or concrete outdoor fireplace.

Buying Porcelain Tile in NJ

Braen Supply is the leading supplier of high quality and affordable porcelain pavers throughout NJ and its surrounding areas. We work closely with the largest and most trusted hardscaping manufacturers in order to connect our customers with the perfect pavers for their home projects.

Our team is happy to listen to your needs and desires and help you select the right materials for creating the outdoor living space of your dreams.

You’ll always enjoy the lowest and most competitive prices on our hardscaping materials. Our porcelain pavers can be picked up or can be bulk delivered to job sites throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC and PA.

What Are the Best Landscaping Lighting Units to Have For Your Home?

Are you proud of your stunning landscape? Here’s a bright idea: illuminate your home’s exterior and outdoor living spaces with beautiful landscaping lighting fixtures.

With landscaping lighting you can increase the overall level of safety throughout your property while also making it possible to get more use out of your patio, outdoor kitchen and swimming areas – even after dark.

No matter what landscaping style you prefer or what your personal tastes involve, you’ll quickly discover that lighting solutions exist to meet a wide range of homeowner needs and desires on a budget you can afford.

Ready to spruce up your home? Check out some of our expert tips for choosing the right landscaping lighting for your unique demands.

Landscaping Lighting for Security Purposes

One of the primary reasons why homeowners invest in landscaping lighting is to increase home safety and provide peace of mind. Security lights are often installed on garages, along the outside walls of a home or on sheds and other structures that are situated in otherwise dark spaces.

Some homeowners prefer lights that constantly remain on, whereas others are most interested in lights that are motion-sensored and will only be triggered when someone is approaching the home. Either fixture is effective in boosting safety.

Another smart place to install lights is along front or back entryways to the home. Finally, those with larger properties might also want to consider flood lighting to keep potential intruders at bay.

Illuminating Pathways with Landscaping Lighting

Navigating pathways and driveways after dark can be tricky and even dangerous. Whether you’ve got a smooth, concrete path or a textured, gravel walkway, there’s still the same chance that you or a visitor to your home could trip and fall, leading to injury.

The best way to eliminate safety risks like these is to illuminate these areas with beautiful landscape lights. Yard stakes are among the most popular fixtures for this purpose, are extremely affordable and are very easy to install along both edges of the trail.

Modern, outdoor recessed lights which are flush with the ground have also become very popular in NJ throughout recent years and will add a touch of sophistication to your property.

Landscaping Lighting for Entertaining

You can’t entertain your friends and family once the sun goes down if you don’t have lights! Lighting not only makes it possible for guests to mingle and communicate, but it also sets the mood for the entire event.

Dimmer lights are a great choice because they can be adjusted to alter the tone of your affair. For a more unique, fun or funky approach to lighting for entertaining purposes, we suggest that you consider stringing party lights or even Christmas lights across and throughout your patio space.

Chinese lanterns or antique lanterns can also offer a romantic and one-of-a-kind feel to your party. During summer parties and barbecues, many homeowners like to use Tiki Torch lights which are fun and also keep insects away.

Highlighting Features with Landscaping Lighting

If you’ve got areas of your landscape that you’re especially fond of, you might want to consider installing accent lights that will highlight these features even after the sun goes down. Accent lighting can be installed in a couple of different ways.

Some people purchase and install spotlight-type fixtures which can be directed at landscaping features like fountains, from a distance.

Other people might install accent lights that are built flush with an attractive natural stone or facade wall in order to cast light and shadow either upwards or downwards along the wall for a truly stunning effect. We suggest working with a landscaping expert to determine which accents would be best for your property.

Landscaping Lighting for Swimming Areas

Have you ever felt the urge to take a nighttime dip in your swimming pool? Unless you’ve got lighting features in and around your swimming pool, you probably had to wait until daylight in order to ensure that you and your loved ones would be safe in the water.

Swimming pool lighting fixtures help to illuminate the pool deck and alert people of wet or slick spots, as well as highlight where the pool deck ends and the pool begins. At the same time, the water is covered in light so you can see what’s going on in the pool and keep an eye on all swimmers.

For best results, we recommend that you make use of a combination of larger spotlights or floodlights surrounding the pool and underwater lights that will enable you to see beneath the water. This not only helps to make the area safer, but it also adds a hint of serenity and magic as the shadows of swimmers will be illuminated in the blue glow of the waters.

Landscaping Lighting for Warmth

NJ homeowners are no strangers to the colder months of the year. As soon as autumn tools around, the temperatures start to drop and the nights get very chilly.

Without a source of warmth within your landscape, you’re forced to head indoors instead of taking advantage of your outdoor living spaces. Fortunately, you’ve got several options when it comes to finding landscaping lighting solutions that will not only bring light to the night, but will also help to keep you and your loved ones warm and comfortable on the crispest of fall evenings.

Outdoor fireplaces are the most popular features. These become the focal point of your outdoor living space and create a natural place for friends and family to gather together while enjoying the dancing flames and the crackling embers.

Fire pits are a second runner-up, offering a cozy and warm place to toast marshmallows and trade stories with one another. Some homeowners also like the idea of using features like heat lamps which can be used to toast up the areas around patio tables and other furniture.

Low-Cost Landscaping Lighting

Regardless of how big or small your lighting budget is, you can still afford to light up your property and enhance its overall look. Low-cost lighting solutions like outdoor solar lights are the perfect fit for homes of all styles.

These versatile lights come in a variety of different styles and colors to match your individual tastes and preferences. Solar lights require a minimal up-front investment and will pay you back and then some.

This is because the lights run on power from the sunlight rather than relying on your electricity supply. The end result is a brighter and lovelier landscape without increasing your monthly utility bill.

Learn More About Landscaping Lighting

Interested in learning more about selecting the right landscaping lighting for your property? The pros at Braen Supply are ready, capable and willing to help.

Because we work with an array of different landscaping and hardscaping materials and features, we’re familiar with the lighting fixtures and units that are best able to complement your home’s unique style of decor.

We can provide you with advice on which types of lighting would most improve the look and safety of your property while also making recommendations about the types of fixtures that can work well together. Give us a call or stop by to talk to one of our experts today.

How To Clean Pavers After Sealing in Orange County, NY

Believe it or not, the weather will be warming up before you know it. For Orange County, NY homeowners who enjoy entertaining for weekly barbecues, pool parties and get-togethers, it’s extremely important to take the time before the spring and summer months hit to make sure that their pavers are in pristine condition.

In order to do so, you must be willing to put forth the effort required to carefully clean and maintain your pavers. Fortunately, this process isn’t as daunting as it initially seems – especially when your pavers have been seal coated.

For those who are new to the paver maintenance game, we’re here to help. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about how to clean pavers and keep them looking fabulous without the need for professional restoration.

The Importance of Learning How to Clean Pavers

While cleaning and maintaining your pavers may not be the most glamorous or exciting task in the world, it is nevertheless extremely important. Orange County residents can benefit greatly from learning how to clean pavers properly. The most significant advantage to doing so has to do with protecting your initial investment.

After spending the time and money on installing a paver stone patio, walkway or driveway, you want to make sure that it continues to look great and function perfectly throughout the years.

Left uncared for, pavers can become stained or discolored as a result of exposure to the elements, scuff marks, spilled food and beverages, a buildup of dirt and debris, leaky vehicles and more. By simply implementing a few cleaning practices into your weekly regimen you can avoid these problems and ensure that your pavers will serve your needs well into the future.

Required Materials

In order to clean your pavers you’ll need to have the following tools and materials on hand:

Deck broom
Power/pressure washer (or a hose with a high pressure nozzle setting)
Rotary surface cleaner (as needed)
Mild dish detergent

How to Clean Pavers

Cleaning pavers of all types is much simpler than you may think. Your ultimate objective throughout the cleaning process is to remove any dirt, grime or other unwanted debris that may have built up or accumulated on top of the paving stones.

For the most part, you should be able to rely on a garden hose with a spray attachment as a means of clearing away this residue. Should you encounter more difficult spots with stubborn stains, however, you may need to rely on a pressure washer.

In the event that you need to use a pressure washer, it’s extremely important that you remember to use it on the fan setting only. This will prevent a high pressure stream from hitting the pavers and joints and causing damage to the structural integrity of your paved patio, walkway or driveway.

Once you have completed spraying down the area with your hose or pressure washer, you’ll need to use your broom in order to replace any sand that’s been displaced.

Sometimes even a power washer isn’t enough to treat powerful stains or stains that have been allowed to sit for a prolonged period of time without being treated. Here, you’ll want to create a solution of a mild cleaner (dish detergent is often best) and water.

Before using the diluted solution on large areas of your patio, we recommend that you test it on a small area of your pavers to ensure that no discoloration or other issues occur. Once you’re sure that the solution is safe, be sure to scrub the stained area with the cleaner and a broom or make use of a rotary surface cleaner. Rinse the treated area thoroughly upon completion to avoid any soap residue or buildup.

As with any type of cleaning regiment, the more frequently you take the time to wash your pavers, the less dirt and debris will be able to accumulate, thus making the process faster and easier every time. By setting aside a little time each week to treat your pavers, you’ll avoid lengthy and costly renovations down the line.

In addition to knowing how to clean pavers in the most general sense, you should also be aware of some useful tips for working with specific types of pavers:

Concrete Pavers – Orange County, NY homeowners with concrete pavers are able to enjoy the strength and reliability of these materials. To get the most out of them, though, you must know how to clean pavers of this exact type. In addition to following the general guidelines which have been set forth above, you’ll need to take the time to find out which cleaning materials and products have been approved by the manufacturer of your pavers. Never use muriatic acid solutions or similar products as they can cause serious damage to pavers.
Brick Pavers – Brick pavers are a commonly selected alternative to concrete pavers. Orange County residents frequently select brick because it’s extremely attractive, easy to work with and very affordable. As in the case of concrete pavers, brick pavers are susceptible to the impact of exposure to mother nature and regular wear and tear. Because bricks tend to be porous, it’s important to have them sealed. Even then, however, some leaks may run deep. One smart tip for treating difficult oil stains on brick is to sprinkle cat litter on top and let the material absorb into the litter overnight. Simply sweep it away the next day.

Preparing for Re-Sealing

Each of the tips mentioned previously were related to how to clean pavers after they have already been sealed. Just because you had your pavers seal coated after the project was initially completed, though, doesn’t mean that you’re set for life. In fact, we strongly recommend that you set up a schedule for having your pavers re-sealed every 2-3 years, at minimum.

Doing so will not only help to preserve the look and color of the concrete or brick units, but will also add to the strength and longevity of the pavers. Before you can have your pavers re-sealed, however, you need to take some steps to ensure they are properly cleaned.

There’s absolutely no point in re-sealing pavers that are not clean, so you should start things off by doing a thorough job of washing away residue and stains.

At this time you might also consider re-filling the joints with polymeric sand, as some of the sand may have washed away after a period of time. After the sand has hardened, apply a coat of sealant down on top of the pavers. Be sure to always follow manufacturer specifications to a T.

Interested in learning more about how to clean pavers? Feel free to reach out to the experts at Braen Supply. As the largest supplier of concrete and brick pavers throughout Orange County, NY and its surrounding areas, we’re familiar with all of the leading products and can provide you with all the information you need in order to care for your pavers.

We also sell supplies required for cleaning and sealing pavers, and can connect you with high quality pavers for future projects. Get in touch with one of our experts to talk about the care your pavers demand today.

How to Install Patio Pavers in Rockland County, NY

If you’re tired of your Rockland County home looking like all the rest on your block, you may be giving some thought to overhauling your landscape this spring. Before you make plans to bring out the wrecking ball and starting completely from scratch, though, you should know that there’s an easier way: installing patio pavers.

Introducing these pavers to your property is a fast, simple, affordable and practical way to upgrade your property and make better use of your outdoor living space – without any of the hassle.

Ready to get started? This post will walk you through the basics of how to install patio pavers so that you enjoy smooth sailing throughout the construction process.

Why do I need to learn how to install patio pavers?

Homeowners who are planning on leaving the actual work of installing patio pavers to a professional contractor may wonder why they actually need to know how to get the job done. Regardless of whether you’re going to tackle the project on your own or work with a contractor, though, it’s important to understand the steps that should be taken for a reliable installation.

Cutting corners or skipping certain steps could come back to haunt you in a big way – and in a very short period of time. Knowing exactly what needs to be done will ensure that the job gets done right the first time around so that you don’t have to waste time and money making major repairs down the road.

How to Install Patio Pavers: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Before proceeding anything further, let’s take a look at the tools and materials required in order to get the job done right:

Yard stakes
Twine
Shovel/spade
Wheelbarrow
Gloves
Tamping tool
Hoe
Landscaping fabric
Crushed stone
Sand
Pavers
Push broom
Polymeric sand
Hose with spray nozzle

Once you’ve assembled your tools, you’re ready to learn how to install patio pavers. Adhering to the following steps will make the process as seamless as possible:

Step 1: Have Your Property Assessed

We always recommend that our customers contact their local utility provider and schedule a one time property assessment. During the visit, an expert will determine where any underground piping, cabling or wiring may be located which could prevent you from excavating and constructing a patio in these specific areas.

This assessment can play a key role in determining how large or small your patio will need to be as well as in establishing the types of layouts that are most practical for your property.

Step 2: Plan a Layout and Mark the Perimeter

Now that you know what you’re up against, you’re ready to sit down and decide where you want your new patio to be located and how you want it to be laid out. Will you construct a rectangular surface or are you more interested in a circular or wavy patio? Once you’ve made a decision, work with a partner to mark off the desired boundaries with stakes and twine.

Step 3: Excavate the Area

Depending on the size of your patio, you may be able to excavate the project area with a shovel and wheelbarrow or you may need to rent special equipment. In either case, we suggest that you consult with a professional to determine how deep you’ll need to dig out the area for your patio.

Step 4: Prepare the Base

A stable base is an absolute must for any paver patio. To ensure that the patio will be well supported you’ll need to remove any roots, large stones, sticks or other debris from the excavated area before compacting it down firmly.

Finally, you should apply a layer of landscaping fabric. This will prevent plants from growing up underneath the pavers and displacing them.

Step 5: Pour Base Materials

A solid and reliable sub base material like crushed stone or quarry process is critical to ensuring that your patio will be solid and long-lasting. Carefully pour these materials to the necessary depth and compact them firmly before proceeding.

Step 6: Install Edging Material

Before you introduce sand to your project area and start laying pavers, we suggest that you start by laying down your edging materials. This will help prevent the sand from becoming scattered throughout your property and will help you to stay on track when laying down the pavers.

Some homeowners choose to use the same pavers for both the patio and the edging whereas others utilize stones that will contrast nicely against the remaining pavers and create a clear boundary.

Step 7: Pour Sand

From here, you’re ready to pour your sand over the entire project area. Be sure to rake it out smoothly so that it is evenly distributed throughout the patio. It’s wise to talk to a trusted professional to determine exactly how much sand you should purchase and apply in order to achieve optimal results.

Step 8: Lay Down Your Pavers

Working from the outside edge inward you will carefully lay each paver down into the desired area and press it firmly into the sand. Make sure that you space the pavers evenly from one another and press them to the same depth so that the entire surface is even and level.

Step 9: Fill the Joints with Polymeric Sand

After you’ve laid the pavers down to your satisfaction you need to make sure they get locked into place with an adhesive materials such as polymeric sand. This is a blend of sand and polymers that harden when they are exposed to water.

Use a push broom to fill each joint with the sand, ensuring that every crack is filled to an even depth. Then simply use a hose to spray over the pavers and allow the polymers to work their magic.

Step 10: Sweep and Enjoy

After the patio has dried, it’s a good idea to sweep over the entire surface and remove any extra debris that may be scattered across the surface. This will prevent debris and residue from beginning to build up on your newly constructed patio.

In addition to learning how to install patio pavers, we would suggest that you take a few moments to learn about the process of sealcoating the paver patio. This will help to preserve the beauty of the patio while improving the strength and durability of the pavers.

Be sure to wash your patio pavers regularly and address stains immediately with a diluted solution of mild detergent and water. Make sure to discuss winter care with a trusted professional and follow all manufacturer specifications regarding ice melt and rock salt.

Where to Buy Patio Pavers in Rockland County, NY

Rockland County residents know that they can count on Braen Supply to meet all of their patio paver needs. We carry a massive inventory of high quality pavers from all of the leading manufacturers.

Our staff are knowledgeable and can answer all of your questions regarding how to install patio pavers and can provide you with useful information about the pavers themselves.

Our pavers are available at the fairest and most competitive prices and can be picked up or bulk delivered to locations throughout Rockland County as well as all of NJ, NY, PA and CT.