How to Protect Wanaque Driveways & Walkways from Winter Damage

Winter in Wanaque doesn’t take it easy on your driveway. Between steep slopes, heavy snow, and freeze-thaw cycles, your surfaces need a little prep to make it through the season without cracking or shifting.

The good news? With a few simple steps and the right materials, you can protect your hardscapes before the cold really sets in.

Why Winter Wreaks Havoc on Wanaque Hardscapes

In my experience, most driveway and walkway damage doesn’t happen all at once. It builds up slowly each winter as water seeps into small gaps, freezes, and expands. That pressure pushes concrete and pavers apart, leading to cracking, flaking (called spalling), and shifting surfaces.

It’s frustrating because it often looks fine until the thaw hits and then the damage shows up overnight. But the earlier you act, the easier it is to prevent.

Step 1: Seal Joints Before Frost Hits

One of the simplest things you can do to protect your driveway or walkway is seal your joints and cracks before winter. It keeps water out and reduces the impact of freeze-thaw cycles.

If you have a paver driveway, check for spots where joint sand has washed out and replace it with polymeric sand, which hardens to block moisture and weeds. For concrete, use a high-quality sealer that repels water without leaving a slick surface.

Most homeowners I work with are surprised how quick this job is and how much damage it prevents later on. A few hours of prep now can save you thousands in repairs next spring.

Step 2: Choose the Right De-Icer

Not all ice melts are safe for your surfaces. Some products, especially those with harsh chemicals, can cause scaling, discoloration, or even surface pitting on concrete and pavers.

For Wanaque homes, I recommend sticking with calcium magnesium acetate (CMA) or magnesium chloride. Both are effective in low temperatures and are much gentler on hardscape materials.

At Braen Supply, we stock a full line of safe de-icers for pavers, natural stone, and concrete driveways. It’s easy to overlook this detail, but using the right product can extend the life of your hardscape by years.

Step 3: Be Smart About Snow Removal

A lot of winter damage happens during snow removal, not just from the weather. Using metal shovels or plow blades can scratch or chip your pavers, leaving them vulnerable to moisture.

I always suggest using plastic or rubber-edged shovels and keeping plow blades slightly raised if you’re clearing a paved or decorative surface. And if you’re using a snowblower, be mindful not to scrape the surface too aggressively.

It’s easy to get caught up in clearing the snow fast, but a little extra care here keeps your driveway looking new much longer.

Step 4: Don’t Forget Drainage

It’s easy to overlook drainage, but it can save you a ton of stress in spring. When meltwater has nowhere to go, it seeps into joints and freezes again, worsening the cycle.

If you notice puddling or icy patches, consider adding gravel borders or adjusting your grading before temperatures drop. Braen Supply carries gravel, crushed stone, and base materials that make these quick fixes simple and affordable.

Get Ready for Winter with Braen Supply

Prepping your driveway or walkway now means fewer headaches later. Stop by Braen Supply for everything you need to winterize your Wanaque home:

Concrete and paver sealers

Safe de-icers and rock salt

Snow removal tools

Gravel and drainage materials

If you’re not sure what products work best for your setup, just ask—I’m happy to help you figure out what will protect your hardscape through another New Jersey winter.

About the Author

Written in the voice of Braen Supply’s in-house expert persona, Reed Coulter. Coulter embodies the collective knowledge of our team and shares practical, straightforward tips to help landscape professionals make the most of their landscaping and masonry projects – drawing on decades of experiences serving New Jersey and the tri-state area.

Winterizing Randolph Patios & Outdoor Living Spaces

November in Randolph is that in-between time. Cool days, chilly nights, and the last chance to get your patio and outdoor areas ready before the deep freeze sets in. A few small steps now can save you a lot of work come spring.

1. Seal Pavers and Joints Before the Freeze-Thaw Cycle

Randolph’s fluctuating temperatures make freeze-thaw damage one of the biggest culprits for cracked or shifting pavers. In my experience, most homeowners don’t realize how much water seeps between the joints until spring rolls around and the patio looks uneven.

Before that first hard frost, take a few hours to apply a quality paver sealer. It’ll help block moisture and protect the surface from salt and snow. If the sand between your pavers looks low or washed out, sweep in polymeric joint sand to lock everything in place.

It’s a quick, inexpensive step that can prevent costly repairs later, and trust me, it’s worth doing before the ground freezes solid.

2. Store Furniture and Protect Grills & Fire Pits

Outdoor furniture, fire pits, and grills take a beating over winter. Cold air, moisture, and ice can cause rust, cracking, and discoloration.

I always tell homeowners: anything you can move, move inside. Store chairs, cushions, and small décor in a shed or garage if possible. For larger items, grab a few weatherproof covers and secure them tightly to block out moisture and snow.

If you have a gas grill or built-in fire pit, shut off fuel lines, clean out debris, and cover them up once they’re cool and dry. It’s easy to skip this step, but it makes all the difference when you’re ready to fire them back up in spring.

3. Use the Right Ice Melt for Your Patio Surfaces

Not all de-icers are patio friendly. Some can damage concrete, fade pavers, or harm nearby plants. For Randolph homeowners, I recommend magnesium chloride or calcium magnesium acetate (CMA). They’re effective at lower temperatures but much gentler on your hardscape surfaces.

At Braen Supply, we carry a full line of safe de-icers for patios and walkways, including bulk and bagged options so you can prep before the first big freeze.

It’s easy to overlook which product you’re spreading, but choosing the right one can save your patio surface from years of wear and tear.

4. Check Your Patio After Winter Ends

Once the snow finally melts, give your outdoor area a quick inspection. Look for signs of:

Loose or uneven pavers

Cracks or chips

Washed-out joint sand

Water pooling near seating areas or foundations

A little maintenance in early spring can prevent small issues from turning into major repairs. Most homeowners I work with are surprised how much easier it is to fix these things right away rather than waiting until the busy summer months.

Get Your Winterizing Supplies at Braen Supply

Winter in Randolph can be harsh, but a little prep now makes all the difference later. Stop by Braen Supply near Randolph for everything you need to protect your patio and outdoor spaces this season:

Paver sealers and joint sand

Safe de-icers and rock salt

Outdoor covers and snow tools

Gravel and drainage materials

If you’re unsure what products to use, I’m happy to help you find exactly what works for your setup. Let’s make sure your outdoor space weathers the winter—and looks great when spring returns.

About the Author

Winterizing Your Yard: Seasonal Landscaping Guide for New Jersey Homes

If you’ve lived in New Jersey long enough, you know our winters can be tough on your yard. Between freezing temps, ice, and heavy snow, your landscape takes a hit if it’s not properly prepped.

The good news? A little planning and the right materials can protect your investment and make spring cleanup a breeze. I’ve helped plenty of homeowners get their properties ready for winter, and with a few simple steps, you can too.

1. Protect Plant Roots with Mulch

Mulch is one of the easiest and most effective ways to guard your plants against cold weather. It acts like a blanket, insulating soil and keeping root systems stable as temperatures fluctuate.

I like to apply about 2–3 inches of mulch around trees, shrubs, and perennials, leaving a small gap around the trunk or stems to prevent rot.

At Braen Supply, we carry a full range of mulches—from natural brown and black to hemlock—that not only protect your plants but also enhance your curb appeal all winter long.

2. Keep Walkways Safe with Rock Salt

Slippery walkways and driveways are no fun for anyone. Stay ahead of the ice with rock salt or ice melt designed for New Jersey’s winter conditions.

Not all ice melts are the same:

Calcium chloride works in very low temperatures.

Magnesium chloride is gentler on concrete and pet-friendly areas.

You can order bulk or bagged rock salt delivery anywhere in New Jersey through Braen Supply, so you’re ready before the next freeze hits.

Pro tip: I always tell homeowners to apply rock salt before a storm when possible. It helps prevent ice from bonding to the surface, making snow removal easier later.

3. Prevent Flooding with Better Drainage

When snow melts, poor drainage can lead to puddles, frozen patches, and even foundation problems. If you notice water pooling around your property, it might be time to add a simple drainage fix before the ground freezes.

Consider solutions like gravel beds, French drains, or catch basins to redirect excess water away from your home. Braen Supply offers gravel, crushed stone, and paver base materials—everything you need for a quick, effective drainage upgrade.

4. Stock Up on Winter Essentials

Winter prep isn’t just about plants and paths. Having the right materials on hand makes a big difference once the snow starts flying. At Braen Supply, you’ll find:

Bulk and bagged rock salt & ice melt

Decorative and protective mulch

Gravel and crushed stone for drainage

Snow removal tools and supplies

Our team’s always ready to help you choose the right products for your property and give you practical tips for how to use them.

Don’t Wait, Start Winterizing Today

Winter weather can show up fast in New Jersey, but getting your yard ready doesn’t have to be complicated. By laying down mulch, stocking up on rock salt, and checking your drainage, you’ll protect your landscape and make your life a lot easier come spring.

If you’re not sure where to start, stop by one of our locations or give us a call. I’ll be glad to help you figure out what your yard needs to handle the cold months ahead.

About the Author

The 5 Tools You Will Need Before Installing Garden Stones

There are many different ways in which a homeowner can enhance the appearance of his or her property, but there are few that are more attractive than the use of garden stones. In fact, garden stones are so versatile that they can be used in a wide variety of landscaping projects, both large and small, and they’re easy on the budget.

That being said, it’s not like the garden stones are going to spread themselves throughout your yard for you. So, you need to know what type of tools will be required for the installation. Let’s first discuss the primary tools that you’ll need prior to laying down the stones and then we’ll provide you with a quick list of steps to follow for the process.

5 Tools That You Will Need Before Installing Garden Stones

To get you started on your new landscaping project, let’s take a look at five tools that you’ll need to pick up to complete the project:

Steel Rake

You’ll need a steel rake for a couple of reasons. First, you can use it to rake leaves and other debris out of your yard to start prepping the area for garden stones. The second use for the rake is to even out areas of dirt and the garden stones throughout the preparation process.

Weeder

Another handy tool that you should pick up for the job is some type of weed eater that will help you get rid of both grass and weeds from your yard. There are a variety of types of weeders, including ones that allow you to stand up while you’re pulling them out, just in case you have any physical ailments that prevent you from being on your hands and knees or knelling to yank them out of the ground.

Hand Tamper

The next tool you’ll need is a hand tamper, which allows you to firmly press down the soil to pack it down. This will be used a few times throughout the preparation process, so make sure that you don’t neglect to pick one up from a gardening department if you don’t already have one.

Landscape Fabric

This is an item that some homeowners seem to forget about when they’re prepping their yard for garden stones, and that could be a big mistake. Even though you’ve pulled the weeds from your yard and spread down weed killer, you should put down a layer of landscape fabric, which will stop any straggling weeds from coming up.

Wheelbarrow

If you do any kind of landscaping work at your home, it’s probably a good idea to have a wheelbarrow in the event that you need to haul a large amount of materials or other items from one place to another. In this case, if you’re receiving garden stones in bulk, this makes moving them to the correct spot a lot easier.

5 Quick Steps to Install Garden Stones

You can see a more detailed list of steps by clicking here, but we thought it’d be a good idea to provide a truncated version to start you off:

Kill Grass and Weeds

The first thing you need to do to prepare your lawn for the installation of garden stones is to kill all of the grass and weeds in the designated areas where you’ll be spreading them. You can start by pulling out as many of the weeds as you can with your trusty weeder, and then spread down some herbicide to get what you missed.

Dig into the Soil

The next step is to dig into the soil by approximately four inches through the area where the garden stones will be spread so that the rocks aren’t placed on uneven ground. If the ground is uneven, you’ll want to grab your steel rake, smooth it out, and then use the hand tamper to compact the soil.

Apply Crushed Stone Pack and Landscape Fabric

In addition to the tools listed above, you’ll also want to pick up some crushed stone pack. Spread approximately 2 1/2 inches of the pack over the compacted soil, use your steel rake to make it even, spray it with a bit of water, and compact it to two inches thick with the hand tamper. Once the crushed stone pack is in place, it’s time to lay down the landscape fabric to stop any weeds from coming up that you might have missed.

Apply Edging

The good news is that you’re almost finished! With the crushed stone pack and landscape fabric down, you need to lay edging around the yard. Follow the landscape fabric edges and lay down the edging there, which will provide additional protection by enforcing the area where you will be placing the garden stones.

Add the Garden Stones

This is the part you’ve all been waiting for, and it’s actually where you get to have some fun. Move your desired garden stones to the prepared area and simply spread them out evenly in the spot. Leave approximately 1/2 inch from the top so that the rocks don’t spill over during a rain. Then, as you might have guessed, spread the stones evenly with your steel rake.

Purchasing Garden Stones in New Jersey

Prior to picking up the required tools for your landscaping project involving garden stones, you should first hunt down a reputable supplier. Braen Supply has been providing all types of landscaping materials for nearly 20 years and can help you get the most out of your next project. Our knowledgeable staff can assist you with selecting the right type of garden stones for your project, give you advice on its specifications, and answer any questions you have. In fact, we’ve recently added landscape design to our expertise, so feel free to come in and speak with our designer, who will help analyze your project’s needs and send you to a reputable contractor. We can have materials bulk-delivered throughout most of NJ and parts of NY, CT, and PA or you can pick up the materials at our New Jersey location.

The Top 10 Creative Ways To Use Decorative Aggregates In Your Yard

If you’ve decided to embark on the adventure of creating a landscape project for your home, we salute your efforts. When searching for a way to make your landscaping project truly stand out, there’s a good chance that you’ll eventually consider the use of decorative aggregates. Given the wide variety of choices available and how they spruce up absolutely any project, it’s obvious why you’d want to use them.

There are almost an endless number of ways that you can utilize decorative aggregates to improve the overall appearance of both your front and backyard. It would be impossible to cover all of them, so what we’ve done is put together a list of some of the more creative uses that homeowners have come up with over the years. Choose one, two, or even a few of them to really help your landscaping project stand out.

Use as a Walkway

Although the first thing that your friends and family will see when they approach your home is the front of the house itself, having an attractive walkway as they make their way to your front door is a fantastic way to set the mood of their visit. Decorative aggregates can be placed closely together into the ground as a way to create a gorgeous, colorful walkway, either as a full path or as a series of stepping stones. You can also shape them into animals and whatnot, or whatever else you desire.

Enhance a Pool Deck

Since swimming pools are such a popular place for people to hang out when they come to visit, the deck area is definitely a place where you want to focus a good deal of your creative energy. You really can’t go wrong with any type of decorative aggregates surrounding your deck, but if you’re going for a tropical look, which many homeowners like to do, there are several different colorful types for you to choose from.

Base of a Mailbox

Many homeowners seem to ignore their mailbox when it comes to attempting to spruce up the appearance of their front yard, but this is a mistake. After all, your mailbox is typically situated at the very front of your yard, which is exactly why so many people decorate the mailbox itself. Adding decorative aggregates to the base of the mailbox will improve its appearance with very little effort.

Line a Walkway

Rather than using decorative aggregates to actually create the walkway leading up to your front door or through your yard, you can also use them to line your existing or future walkway. Doing so will improve the path’s appearance with minimal effort or cost involved. This is a quick and easy use of decorative aggregates that can make a big impact for both household members and visitors to your home.

Flower Bed Edging

Flower beds have become a very popular feature in a variety of landscaping layouts due to the colorful beauty that they can add to both your front yard and backyard. You can increase the attractiveness of flower beds by either filling the entire area with decorative aggregates or use them around the edges to accentuate the plants and flowers. No matter which way you decide to go, the end result will be absolutely fantastic.

Base of Trees

While the presence of trees will definitely improve the look of your home, not to mention the environmental impact, the truth is that most aren’t exactly exciting or especially colorful in appearance unless they’re bearing fruit or flowers. This makes them the perfect area for adding a collection of decorative aggregates. Simply create a circular pattern, or any shape you would like, around the base of the tree and place your selected aggregates there.

Spotlight a Fire Pit

Many modern homeowners have been redoing their backyard by putting in a fire pit for themselves and others to enjoy. This is an especially popular area during the winter months, but it’s a great place to hang out all year round. Laying down some decorative aggregates is a great way to spruce up its appearance and make the time spent with family and friends around it even better.

Decorate a Slope

When your front yard has a slope due to an uneven ground, it can actually look pretty cool even if there’s nothing more than grass growing there. However, if you’re looking for a way to make it stand out, then adding decorative aggregates is a perfect choice. In fact, because of the angle, the aggregates will be quite visible, which will help beautify the entire yard and add curb appeal.

Meditation Garden

In today’s often stressful society, it’s important that you relax and regroup from time to time. A meditation garden with decorative aggregate can provide a calming effect for household members and visitors. You’ll be able to choose soothing, pleasant colors that will help bring harmony to your household. And even if you’re not really into meditation or other holistic methods, this type of design is a wonderful idea just for the beautification aspect.

Highlight a Water Structure

Water structures are a very popular landscaping option because they truly add something special and unique to any type of layout. You can highlight these structures by placing decorative aggregates around their base or in the area nearby. Another option is to you choose some aggregates that match the color of the water structure itself to enhance its overall size and appearance.

Buying Decorative Aggregates in New Jersey

Whether you use decorative aggregates in a traditional landscaping design or something a bit more creative, you’re going to need a reliable supplier like Braen Supply. Our team of experts have been providing materials for almost 20 years, and we also perform landscape design where we will analyze your project’s needs and hook you up with a reputable contractor. Our materials are competitively priced, and you can either drop by our facility to pick them up or have them bulk delivered to most areas throughout NJ and parts of NY, CT, and PA.

5 Quick Tips About Using Decorative Gravel In Your Flower Beds

Dedicating part of your residential or commercial landscape to flower beds is a wonderful way to give the area some real pizzazz. Even if people don’t always seem to notice, flowers have a tendency to work on visitors in a subconscious way. Thanks to their attractive appearance and pleasant scent, they make people feel happy and relaxed. Simply put, flower beds are a fantastic compliment to any property.

While it is true that the flowers you choose are extremely important, what often makes a flower bed really stand out is the choice of material that you use inside the bed. One great choice that many homeowners and business owners have been opting for in recent years is the use of decorative gravel. To help you get the most out of this choice, we have compiled a few simple tips to get you started:

Understand the Benefits of Decorative Gravel

The first thing you should look at when deciding if decorative gravel is the right choice to make for your flower bed is the benefits. Here are a few:

Attractive Appearance — First and foremost, the benefit you’ll immediately notice with decorative gravel is its beautiful appearance. With the different sizes, shapes, colors, and textures at your disposal, your flower beds will compliment any landscape.
Improved Drainage — Many people don’t seem to realize that decorative gravel provides better drainage for their plants and flowers. After it rains, the gravel will allow the water to drain at the perfect speed so as to avoid the plants drying out or retaining too much moisture, thereby providing perfect growing conditions.
Temperature Control — When the sun is out and beating down on your flowers, they are susceptible to drying out more quickly. Decorative gravel acts as a barrier between the sun’s rays and the soil around the flowers. Adversely, the gravel also stops too much water from evaporating.
Longevity — While mulching solutions decay over time and must be replaced periodically, decorative gravel will basically last forever. Plus, since there’s a lack of decay, pests like rodents and insects are less likely to become a problem.

Choose the Right Type for Your Flower Bed

Now that you understand the benefits of decorative gravel, it’s time to focus on choosing the right type for your flower bed. Here are four of the most common options:

Pea Gravel — Due to their size, shape, and smooth appearance, pea gravel has always been a popular choice amongst homeowners and business owners. The stones vary in color, which means you’ll have plenty of types to choose from.
Jersey Shore Gravel — This yellow gravel has been given the moniker of “Jersey Shore” gravel due to its popularity in the area. It is so prevalent that you might not even notice just how much it’s used. Look around, though, and you’ll see that it’s everywhere, which makes it a wonderful choice for flower beds.
Mexican Beach Pebbles — These small stones have been rounded by flowing waters over time and include a variety of natural, attractive tints. Their appearance has made them extremely popular for both residential and commercial applications.
River Rock — If you’re looking for a type of stone/gravel that is both smooth in appearance and features several different colors to choose from, river rock might be just what the landscaper ordered. The best part is that river rock isn’t expensive, which makes it a great solution for flower beds and other landscaping projects.

Take Your Time with Making a Decision

Even though a flower bed may seem like a small project when compared to full-on landscaping jobs, it isn’t something you want to rush or take for granted. With the right type of flowers and a complimentary decorative gravel to go along with them, you can greatly improve the appearance and functionality of your property. The basic idea here is to avoid rushing into a decision and then regretting it afterward. Do your research and don’t be afraid to get help from others (which we’ll cover below). This will help ensure that the result is a beautiful set of flower beds that you can be proud of.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Friends for Advice

There’s a good chance that some of your friends have installed flower beds at their homes. The same could be true for neighbors or fellow business owners near you. The point is that asking for advice never hurts, and they may be able to give you some insight into what constitutes an attractive, effective flower bed. This is especially true if they have experience in landscaping that far exceeds your own. Reach out to anyone close that you trust and the results might be even better than expected.

Consult with Experts for Design Options, If Necessary

If you’ve exhausted the advice of all your friends and neighbors, or simply don’t have anyone close to you that have used flower beds and decorative gravel in the past, then you should feel free to consult with experts on the matter. There’s probably no reason to pay for landscapers for a consult, of course, which means that your gravel supplier should be asked. A good supplier will have the knowledge and expertise required to give you all of the information you need or tell you where to find the answers to your questions.

Buying Decorative Gravel in NJ

The first step to using decorative gravel in your flower bed is to find a reputable supplier of the material. Braen Supply has proven itself as the number one supplier for all of New Jersey’s landscaping needs for both residential and commercial use. Our team of skilled professionals will help you select the right material for an upcoming job, instruct you in its usage, and answer any questions you may have. We are available to assist you before, during, and after any given project. Our decorative gravel is competitively priced and can be picked up at your convenience or delivered in bulk throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC, and PA.

5 Decorative Gravels That Will Spruce Up Your Landscaping

Landscaping projects are always awesome and exciting, and one reason for this is that they come with a ton of available choices. This means that every homeowner or business owner who is attempting to beautify their property and improve its curb appeal must dive into the multiple types of design and style options available before any kind of construction or installation can be done. A big part of this pre-planning phase includes choosing the type of material (or materials) that will be used in the project.

Decorative gravel has been a popular choice for improving the appearance of a residential or commercial property, and have proven to be a fantastic replacement or alternative to mulching options. A big reason for this is that there are several types to choose from, each with their own individual properties, but which also typically serve the same basic functions. Each of these types of gravel will look great, improve drainage and temperature control, help deter pests due to a lack of decay, and basically last forever.

Of course, choosing the one that’s perfect for your specific landscaping project may be a little tricky since all of them make fantastic choices. Any of them will work, but it comes down to personal preference more than anything. To help you out a bit by giving you a head start on what each of these types of decorative gravel is all about, let’s dive into the five primary choices, and then you can decide from there.

Decorative Gravel Type #1: Pea Gravel

Pea gravel is, without a doubt, the most popular type of decorative gravel available. These small, round stones feature a “pea-like” shape and texture, with a smooth surface and attractive appearance that has proven to make them extremely appealing for both residential and commercial applications. You’ll find them in various colors, such as black, white, gray, brown, tan, green, and red. Their appearance makes them very versatile in the use of landscaping projects and, due to their commonality, they are an affordable option that will fit any budget. Many homeowners and business owners will also use them to complement other types of stone in order to add a better aesthetic to an already beautiful landscape.

Decorative Gravel Type #2: Mexican Beach Pebbles

As you might have guessed from the name, these decorative stones are found along the sandy shores of Mexico’s coast. They are typically blue or gray, but will turn deep black or onyx when they are exposed to water. This gives them a unique look amongst other decorative stones, especially when it’s raining or you’re watering the area. Thanks to being exposed to the Pacific Ocean’s crashing waves over a long period of time, Mexican beach pebbles have a smooth, round appearance. Depending on the type of project you’re undertaking, you may want to choose smaller or larger variations of these stones. For instance, the smaller types are better for flower beds and garden planters, whereas the larger types are great for lawns, walkways and similar projects.

Decorative Gravel Type #3: White Marble Chips

This type of decorative gravel is a bit more subdued than other choices, which makes these chips perfect if you’re not going for a flashy or overly colorful appearance. These stones are usually white with one or more gray streaks. Plus, they offer a shimmering surface that almost looks like it’s covered with specks of glitter. While possibly not as fancy as other choices, white marble chips will look great in a variety of projects.

Decorative Gravel Type #4: Yellow “Jersey Shore” Gravel

Affectionately known as the “Jersey Shore” gravel, this decorative gravel is commonplace throughout the state of New Jersey. The name derives from the fact that the yellow, golden, brown, and tan appearance of these stones gives a sense of spending time at the beach, especially the Jersey Shore. These colors work great with all types of plants, regardless of style or shade. Plus, they are very affordable, which makes them an even better choice for a variety of landscaping projects.

Decorative Gravel Type #5: River Rock

Think of river rock as a kind of hybrid of pea gravel and Mexican beach pebbles. Basically, this type of decorative gravel gives you the color options of pea gravel and the water-washed smoothness and visual effect of Mexican beach pebbles. These rocks add character to practically any landscaping project and, like a couple of other options on this list, are inexpensive. This means you could basically cover your entire landscape in river rock and it wouldn’t set you back too much.

Purchasing Decorative Gravel in NJ

Once you have decided that decorative gravel would be perfect for your next landscaping project, you’re going to need a reputable supplier that can help you get started by supplying you with the material. Braen Supply has spent years developing a wide knowledge of landscaping needs and can provide you with a variety of materials based around each project. Our team of experts can assist you before, during, and after your project, whether you’re still trying to decide on which material to use or would like advice on how to get the most out of the design. You are welcome to stop by our physical location or order in bulk and have the material delivered to many areas throughout parts of NJ, NY, and PA.

Cedar Mulch vs. Decorative Gravel: What Is Best For My Flower Beds?

If you’ve been looking for a way to spruce up your residential or commercial property, flowers will certainly hit the spot. No matter which types of flowers you choose to decorate the area, the colors, shapes, and aromas will stand out amongst the rest of the vegetation and improve your curb appeal. This is why so many homeowners and business owners install flower beds on their property, often as a compliment to the landscaping that already exists.

Two great options for filling in your flower beds include cedar mulch and decorative gravel. While the basic functionality of each choice remains the same, there are a few differences between them that are important to point out. Today, we’re going to take a look at a few of the benefits and types of both cedar mulch and decorative gravel, and then you can decide which is more appealing for your specific needs and/or personal preference.

Benefits of Cedar Mulch

First, let’s take a look at the primary benefits of cedar mulch:

Appearance — The light hues available with cedar mulch allow for a soft, neutral color palette that is easy to incorporate into any style of landscape.
Pleasant Aroma — The pleasant, soothing aroma will encapsulate your home or business, providing you and your visitors with a warm, welcoming feeling.
Temperature Control — The light hues that are available also helps maintain proper temperatures around your flowers by absorbing just the right amount of sunlight.
Moisture Control — Cedar mulch will prevent moisture from evaporating due to the sun’s rays, helping to maintain adequate moisture and promote healthy growth.
Valuable Nutrients — The decomposition that mulch goes through will enrich the soil with organic matter, adding valuable nutrients to your flowers.

Benefits of Decorative Gravel

Now, let’s take a look at the primary benefits of decorative gravel:

Appearance — Decorative gravel comes in multiple shapes, sizes, and colors, giving you more than enough options to beautify the flower beds on your property to your liking.
Better Drainage — Proper health of your flowers can occur more easily due to decorative gravel’s ability to drain properly following a rain, but not so much that they dry out.
Temperature Control — With its ability to regulate soil temperatures, decorative gravel will ensure that the ground doesn’t overheat, which could cause the flowers to dry out.
Long-Lasting — Unlike cedar mulch, decorative gravel doesn’t degrade or decay over time, which means that you won’t need to switch it out periodically.
Pest Control — Decay attracts rodents and insects, but since decorative gravel doesn’t decay over time, you don’t have to worry about your flower bed becoming a beacon for pests.

Types of Cedar Mulch

The choice between the types of cedar mulch available on the market comes down to three different colors:

Red Cedar Mulch — This is the flashiest of the cedar mulch that’s available, so if you’re looking for something that will stand out amongst colorful flowers, this could very well be the one for you.
Brown Cedar Mulch — Due to its more “earthy” appearance, this specific cedar mulch is often popular amongst those who want their flower bed to look as natural as possible.
Black Cedar Mulch — Since almost everything looks great in black, this color can help your flower bed stand out thanks to a stark contrast between the mulch and your brightly colored flowers.

Types of Decorative Gravel

Decorative gravel is available in a few different types, with these being the most common:

Pea Gravel — This is, hands down, the most popular choice of decorative gravel due to its small, round shape, texturing, smooth appearance, and multiple colors.
Mexican Beach Pebbles — These stones hail from the Mexican coast, have been exposed to years of crashing waves, come in a variety of sizes, and turn deep black/onyx when exposed to water.
Yellow Gravel — Also known as “Jersey Shore” gravel, these yellow, tan, and golden stones have become commonplace throughout the state of New Jersey.
White Marble Chips — These small stones are known not only for the gray streaks found against their typically white primary color, but the fact that the surface almost looks like it’s covered by glitter.
River Rock — Often seen as a cross between Mexican beach pebbles and pea gravel, river rock offers the smoothness of the former and the color variety of the latter.

Best Way to Choose Between Them

To be honest, choosing between cedar mulch and decorative gravel for your flower beds will often come down to personal preference. Perhaps you believe that mulch has an aesthetic that is more to your liking, or maybe you prefer decorative gravel because it will last much longer. Regardless of which one you choose, the effect that a flower bed will have on your residential or commercial property will be stupendous and really add to your curb appeal. And guess what? There’s really no wrong choice! But, if you’re having difficulty making a decision and want some friendly, knowledgeable advice, we would suggest asking your friends, neighbors, co-workers, or even a professional in the industry.

Buying Mulch and Decorative Gravel in New Jersey

Whether you choose to use mulch or decorative gravel in your flower beds, you’ll need to seek out a reputable supplier. Braen Supply has been serving New Jersey and surrounding states for many years, and has become the #1 supplier of landscaping stones, gravel, and other materials thanks to our high-level of quality and excellence that we bring to everything we do. Our experts can help you make decisions about upcoming projects, give you advice on how to improve an existing landscaping effort, or simply answer any questions you have about a certain material that you’ve been considering for your residential or commercial property. Braen Supply can deliver materials in bulk to many areas throughout parts of NJ, NY, and PA, or you can stop by our physical location in New Jersey.

The Complete Techo-Bloc Installation Guide: Pavers, Slabs & More

Everyone loves Techo-Bloc! As a leading designer and manufacturer of high quality, affordable hardscaping and landscaping materials, Techo-Bloc has quickly become the “go-to” option for NJ homeowners looking to upgrade their properties with gorgeous pavers and slabs.

Making the decision to work with Techo-Bloc pavers and slabs is only part of the process, though. From here, you need to be able to properly install the materials so that they will continue to look and function magnificently in the many years ahead.

The following Techo-Bloc installation guide will help you to have a better understanding of what is involved in the process of giving your landscape a makeover with Techo-Bloc products.

Get a Professional Opinion

Before you start excavating your yard and diving into your Techo-Bloc project, we strongly urge you to seek out the opinion of your local utility provider or city planner.

These professionals will be able to carefully evaluate your property to ensure that you don’t accidentally end up digging up an important utility line or covering up access to underground pipes and cables.

You may also find that, in some areas, a city planner must “Okay” your plans before you’re able to legally proceed with work. Taking the time to do your due diligence before working will pay off in the long run.

Gather Your Tools

Once you’ve been given the stamp of approval to get started on your work, you’ll need to make sure that you’ve got everything you need in order to get the job done properly.

In addition to having the right quantity of Techo-Bloc pavers and slabs on hand, you’ll also need plenty of crushed stone and sand for a foundation and setting bed. To excavate the area, you may need shovels or heavy-duty equipment, depending on the size of your project space.

A vibrating plate, tamping tool, or other means of compacting your materials will also be required. A polymer stabilizer will be necessary in order to keep your pavers and slabs in place.

Finally, you may also want to consider any edging or curbing material that you would like to use to create a border around your finished project area.

Excavation

Now we’ve come to the point in our Techo-Bloc installation guide where we’re ready to break ground. For smaller projects, you may be able to get away with using a shovel and wheelbarrow.

The majority of landscaping and hardscaping undertakings, however, will demand the use of more heavy duty excavation equipment, such as a Bobcat. When laying pavers and slabs for patios, walkways, driveways, etc., you will need to take care to ensure that you excavate to the appropriate depth.

The heavier the load that the pavement will be faced with, the greater the depth will need to be. It’s usually a good idea to consult with a landscaping professional in order to ensure depth requirements.

It’s best to do this before beginning the excavation process, as knowing the proper depths will also make it easier for you to order the correct quantity of base materials.

Throughout the excavation process, you will also need to pay attention to the slope. As a general rule, you should strive for achieving slopes in increments of 1.5% so as to allow for proper drainage.

Once the area has been excavated, you will need to take steps to clear away any stones, roots, large sticks, or other debris.

Compact the soil if it is granular, however, if it has a clay consistency you should apply a thin layer of lime and crushed stone before proceeding with compaction. Finally, add some geotextile fabric to prevent weeds from growing through the base over time.

Pour the Foundation

Now that the base has been prepared, you’re ready to pour your crushed stone into the trench in order to create a solid foundation.

In most cases, you don’t want your crushed stone to be any larger than 3/4″. Once the crushed stone has been introduced to the trench, it should be firmly compacted for structural integrity.

Establish the Setting Bed

The next phase of our Techo-Bloc paver installation guide involves establishing a setting bed for your pavers. Here, you’ll need to apply a layer of bedding sand (concrete sand) on top of the crushed stone.

The sand will help to keep the pavers in place while also filling in any voids and adding to the overall strength and integrity of the foundation.

Next, install two pipes directly on top of the crushed stone base and bedding. These pipes should have an outside diameter of 1″. The pipes will work to help with drainage

Lay Down Your Pavers

This is the part of the Techo-Bloc installation guide that you are likely most interested in. At this point in time, we’re ready to actually start installing your Techo-Bloc pavers or slabs so that you can start enjoying the new look and feel of your landscape or hardscape.

We recommend working from the outside edge inward, always laying down two “stones” at a time at a 90-degree angle. Walk on the pavers or slabs as they are installed in order to help them settle into the stand.

Make sure that you carefully follow the pattern or design you have selected, and work to ensure that all pavers are installed evenly.

Fill In the Joints

The final phase of our Techo-Bloc installation guide involves filling in the joints between pavers or slabs in order to ensure that they remain in place and will continue to meet your needs in the many years. Use a polymer stabilizer in order to fill in each joint.

Sweep any loose polymeric sand into the joints and make sure that any excess is swept away before it is allowed to activate and harden.

Once the joints have been filled, you can use a vibrating plate to help the pavers or slabs to further settle into the sand bed for long-term stability. Finally, do another sweep of the pavers in order to remove excess sand, and apply water to the joints in order to activate the polymers.

DIY or Contractor?

If you’ve been successful in previous DIY-type projects throughout your landscape and feel comfortable with the above steps, you will find that adhering to this Techo-Bloc installation guide is quite simple.

Those who do not feel as confident in their ability to follow these steps should consider working with a Techo-Bloc Authorized Contractor in order to ensure that the job gets done in a way that will meet your expectations and protect your product warranty.

Working with Techo-Bloc Pavers and Slabs in NJ

Braen Supply is the leading Techo-Bloc supplier for pavers, slabs and similar products in NJ and its surrounding areas. We are Authorized Techo-Bloc dealers and can provide you with access to the latest and most beautiful Techo-Bloc products at the lowest prices possible.

We are also more than happy to provide you with answers to all of your installation questions and to point you in the direction of an authorized contractor who can help make your landscaping dreams come true.

Visit our showroom to see our Techo-Bloc products and get started today. We bulk deliver Techo-Bloc materials throughout parts of NJ & NY and limited parts of PA & CT.

How to Incorporate the Techo-Bloc Mini Creta Collection into Your Next Project

What does your perfect building block look like? For many NJ homeowners, Techo-Bloc’s Mini Creta collection meets everything they want and need.

The rough and rugged finish of these concrete blocks gives them the aged look of natural stone at a fraction of the cost. They are absolutely beautiful and come in a number of warm, aesthetically pleasing color families which makes it easy for anyone to fall in love with the faux “stone.”

So how can you bring Techo-Bloc Mini Creta blocks into your own landscape? Here are a few awesome suggestions for introducing this incredible collection to your home.

Retaining Walls

Many NJ homeowners find themselves in need of retaining walls in order to preserve the integrity of their sloped or hilly landscapes.

In addition to preventing erosion, a well-constructed and well-planned Mini Creta retaining wall can add a great deal of beauty to the entire property, and can even allow for more outdoor living space through the construction of various levels or terraces

. Mini Creta blocks are especially great for tasks like these because they are extremely attractive and very durable. The blocks are able to withstand heavy lateral loads and will hold up well against the elements – no matter what Mother Nature throws their way.

Freestanding/Dividing Walls

The Techo-Bloc Mini Creta collection is good for more than just retaining walls. Because Mini Creta blocks are designed with a chiseled and textured look on all sides, the materials can be used in the construction of freestanding walls where the wall can be viewed from multiple locations.

This allows for a lot of freedom in terms of constructing non-load-bearing walls that exist either purely for decorative purposes, or for creating a division between two distinct “rooms” or areas within your outdoor living space.

The beautiful walls will add a lot of warmth and beauty to your space while helping to create a more spatially aware design concept.

Wall Seating

Whether you’ve constructed a retaining wall or a freestanding wall, you can accentuate your Mini Creta wall by incorporating seating that is built right into the feature. The Techo-Bloc Mini Creta collection pairs nicely with slabs and caps which can be used to create a bench top for recessed areas that are set into the wall.

This creates a warm, cozy and inviting atmosphere. This type of wall seating can be used for reading on a sunny day, for added entertaining space in your outdoor living room, for seating around a fire pit, etc.

Raised Planters

Growing flowers, vegetables and other plant life takes a lot of time, passion and dedication. Once your plant life has started to blossom, you want to have the ability to truly show it off and enjoy it.

One smart way to do this is by planting your flowers or your garden in a raised planter that is constructed with Mini Creta wall blocks. The naturalistic appearance of the blocks works perfectly within the scope of your plantings, and the rich texturing of the “stone” contrasts against the smooth shapes of petals and leaves in order to create something truly intriguing and special.

A Mini Creta raised planter can also help to protect your pants against high winds, from being trampled, or from being eaten by critters.

Steps

Wall blocks like those found in the Techo-Bloc Mini Creta collection can be used to construct gorgeous and highly functional staircases throughout the exterior of your home’s property.

Whether you choose to use the blocks for only the walls surrounding the staircase or you decide that the blocks will also work nicely for the stars themselves, you’ll be very pleased with the end result.

Your finished project will be a stately and elegant staircase that will be structurally sound and reliable while looking incredible from all sides. As mentioned previously, Mini Creta blocks pair nicely with caps and treads for a completely polished look.

Tiered Seating

It’s not uncommon for NJ homeowners to have all or part of their outdoor living spaces and patios located below grade. These recessed areas dip into the ground for intimate living areas, cozy fireplaces, etc.

The stairs leading down to recessed or below grade outdoor living spaces can be constructed from Mini Creta Blocks, and they can even be elongated and capped off in order to double as relaxed, stadium-style seating around a fire pit.

Outdoor Kitchens

Mini Creta blocks are very useful in the design and construction of an outdoor kitchen. If you’re like most homeowners, you want your outdoor cooking area to have many natural elements while still looking fabulous when contrasted against your shiny, new stainless steel appliances.

The chiseled face of Mini Creta blocks give them that “true blue”, au-natural vibe that you crave while still offering an element of modern luxury and elegance. For this reason, the Techo-Bloc Mini Creta collection is well suited for engineering cooking counters, grill islands, etc. throughout the outdoor kitchen.

Fire Features

Some NJ homeowners have elected to construct their own outdoor fire features, like raised fire pits, out of materials like Techo-Bloc Mini Creta blocks, as opposed to purchasing pre-planned kits. Mini Creta’s rugged look is perfect for a fire setting, and creates a vibrant atmosphere for gathering with friends and family for an evening under the stars.

Pillars

Tie the look of your entire outdoor living space together by picking up a Techo-Bloc Mini Creta pillar kit. This kit was developed by popular demand in order to enhance the look of Mini Creta wall blocks, or even to add a special flare to walls that feature other Techo-Bloc products.

The chiseled look of the blocks can be viewed from all sides of the pillars, allowing you to enjoy the feature no matter where you’re positioned. Pillars can create a more upscale and stately look for your home, increasing property value. They are very easy to install and will continue to look beautiful for a lifetime.

Choosing the Right Design

Your landscaping designs with Techo-Bloc Mini Creta blocks are limited only by your imagination. In order to settle on the right design for your home, however, we recommend that you spend some time checking out Techo-Bloc’s Designer’s

Toolbox which offers a number of great tools for visualizing your finished project and coming up with the best ideas for patterns and layouts. You can also consult with a landscape design professional or your local Techo-Bloc dealer for advice.

Working with Techo-Bloc Mini Creta in NJ

As the leading Techo-Bloc supplier in NJ, Braen Supply is the best place to go for your Mini Creta landscaping needs. As authorized Techo-Bloc dealers, we have access to the entire Mini-Creta wall and pillar collection, ensuring that you have your pick of of colors and styles when you’re ready to begin your landscaping project.

Our local showroom can help you to get a better idea about how your completed landscape might look, and to provide you with design inspiration. You can count on the fact that we always offer competitive pricing on Techo-Bloc materials.

Our blocks from the Techo-Bloc Mini Creta collection can be picked up at your convenience or can be bulk delivered to areas throughout parts of NJ & NY and limited parts of PA & CT.