7 Ways to Incorporate Techo-Bloc Pavers at Your Home

Homeowners are crazy about Techo-Bloc pavers! These unique pavers are designed, engineered and manufactured with detail and precision to ensure that every unit is beautiful, durable and long-lasting.

Techo-Bloc takes pride in providing customers with the ability to enjoy the natural look and feel of gorgeous paving stones, but at a fraction of the cost. Really, what’s not to love?

Perhaps you’ve picked up on the buzz and have caught a glimpse of the stunning pavers that Techo-Bloc has to offer. You may have even fallen in love with the way that these concrete pavers look.

Despite knowing that you enjoy the appearance and functionality of Techo-Bloc, though, you may not be sure if or how the pavers can be incorporated into your own property. Well, that’s why we’re here!

We’re so passionate about Techo-Bloc pavers that we think everyone deserves to enjoy them, and we’ve got a lot of ideas on how you can do just that. Here’s a look at 7 inspirational ideas for using Techo-Bloc pavers throughout your landscape:

1. Striking Front Driveways

Your driveway is often the first thing that visitors and passersby notice when approaching your property. Isn’t it important, then, that your driveway bring out the very best in your home?

After all, you don’t want your spectacular, colonial or Cape Cod style home to be brought down by an old, cracked, and pockmarked concrete driver, do you? Take your driveway beyond the ordinary and into the world of the extraordinary with Techo-Bloc pavers.

Techo-Bloc offers a wide variety of style and product lines, each featuring an array of different color families, textures, shapes, sizes and patterns.

This makes it easy for you to find paving stones that will match with the existing style of decor throughout your landscape and enhance any landscaping or architectural features, all while making a statement about who you are. Yes – Techo-Bloc pavers can achieve all that and more! Your new front drive won’t just look incredible, though.

Techo-Bloc pavers are built with strength and durability in mind. When properly installed, these pavers will be able to withstand heavy loads of vehicular traffic, stand up under the weather, and meet your needs for a lifetime.

2. Inviting Walkways

Could your home benefit from a clear and attractive path that leads guests to your front door? Or would you like to see a path connecting two important parts of your property?

Techo-Bloc pavers will do the trick. Numerous styles and patterns exist which allows you to pick out a product that will fit your unique design needs.

Whether you need a modern, chic manufactured stone or are looking for a touch of rugged beauty or enchanted whimsy, you’ll find the perfect Techo-Bloc pavers to construct the path or walkway of your dreams.

Techo-Bloc pavers are very comfortable to walk upon. In addition to this, Techo-Bloc products are richly textured which helps to create traction during periods of rain, snow, or ice.

3. Luxurious Pool Decks

Bergen County homeowners with swimming pools want to enjoy the finer things in life. Your outdoor swimming area should serve as your own private oasis, and the space simply isn’t complete without a luxurious pool deck for you to stretch out on and bask in the sun.

Pool decks need to compliment the beautiful colors of the swimming pool waters, be able to handles regular exposure to water, be able to protect bare feet against slipping and becoming burnt from the sun, and create a peaceful area for sunbathers to relax and watch the swimmers splashing away.

Techo-Bloc pavers are able to all of this while looking absolutely incredible. Create patterns and embrace textures that suit your individual tastes while ensuring that you’ve established a safe and reliable environment for swimmers.

4. Sophisticated Patios

If you’re like many NJ residents, you value your time outdoors during the nicer months of the year. Don’t settle for a mediocre patio area for gathering with your nearest and dearest!

Techo-Bloc patio paver products empower you to design a uniquely beautiful outdoor living space that will make you feel at peace while being completely unique. You’ll never be “just another house on the block” again.

Instead, your house will become the hot spot for neighborhood and family get-togethers as your pavers dazzle and delight. Techo-Bloc pavers don’t scratch, scrape, or chip easily, are resistant to stains, and are very easy to clean and maintain.

5. Elegant Verandas

Take your living room outside beneath a covered Veranda that is surfaced with decorative, practical, functional, and affordable Techo-Bloc pavers. This will become your favorite room of the house.

Techo-Bloc stones create the perfect environment for entertaining and relaxing, offering a soothing yet stunning appearance and all of the strength and durability of natural stone.

6. Upscale Outdoor Kitchens

Outdoor kitchens are the latest trend in Bergen County and throughout NJ. Instead of running back and forth between patio dining areas and indoor kitchens, homeowners are choosing to construct fully functional outdoor kitchens.

Stone ovens and countertops look fantastic, and a Techo-Bloc paver floor will tie the whole thing together and complete the look. Techo-Bloc pavers offer a smooth, sleek and comfortable look that will make you feel truly at home in your kitchen while also blending in with and complementing your remaining kitchen features.

The manufactured stone doesn’t overheat which makes it ideal for use around a hot oven or stone pizza oven. Lastly, Techo-Bloc pavers don’t stain or scratch easily, so you won’t have to worry about them getting ruined when a cooking mishap or spill occurs.

7. Cozy Fire Pit Surrounds

People have been gathering with their loved ones around fire since the dawn of time, but you can take your experience to the next level when you install a quality, stone fire pit and surround it with practical and attractive Techo-Bloc pavers.

Laying a paved surface around the fire pit helps to establish a place where you can set up chairs and tables for kicking back and relaxing on a summer night. The cool Techo-Bloc pavers will keep the area from getting overly hot and uncomfortable so that you can simply enjoy the dancing flames.

Techo-Bloc products are also non-combustible, so you don’t have to worry about a fire starting from floating embers. All in all, Techo-Bloc pavers can significantly improve your fire pit experience.

Buying Techo-Bloc Pavers in NJ

Braen Supply is ready to help you complete the Techo-Bloc landscaping makeover of your dreams. As authorized Techo-Bloc dealers, we carry a complete inventory of Techo-Bloc pavers in a variety of styles, colors, shapes and patters.

Our team will help you find the specific style you’re looking for or can help you decide which pavers would look best within the scope of your property. We can also provide you with even more inspirational ideas for upgrading your landscape.

Our Techo-Bloc pavers are available for the lowest and fairest prices around, and can be picked up or bulk delivered to locations throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC and PA.

How to Build a Project Budget Around Techo-Bloc Prices

Change is exciting – especially when it means upgrading your landscape! Maybe you’re interested in replacing your grassy lawn with paving stones in order to cut down on maintenance and watering costs, or perhaps you’ve been dreaming of an expansive patio for gathering and dining with your loved ones.

Whatever your motivation, your goal is to achieve your goals on a budget you can afford. It’s no wonder, then, that so many of our customers approach us with questions about Techo-Bloc prices and how to use these spectacular pavers within the scope of their budget.

Fortunately, it’s a lot easier than you may think. Knowing what to expect from Techo-Bloc prices and taking steps to keep your project as cost-effective as possible will leave you and your wallet happy.

Planning Your Techo-Bloc Budget: Things to Consider

If you’re giving serious thought to using Techo-Bloc in your upcoming landscaping project, you’re probably curious about what it’s going to cost you. Creating a budget is an essential part of project success, and we’re here to help. Here are a few things to think about when mapping out your Techo-Bloc Budget:

It’s Manufactured to Exact Specifications

One of the biggest advantages to working with a manufactured stone like Techo-Bloc is that you can expect quality and consistency in all of your materials. Although the pavers are designed and engineered with colors and textures that provide a completely natural appearance, you won’t have to worry about any chips or blemishes in your stone.

Each paver also features full bodied color so that the shades you choose to work with are sure to last a lifetime. All materials are carefully selected and only the best are used during the production process. Finally, Techo-Bloc products are held to the highest standard when it comes to industry benchmarks and standards.

This type of attention to detail, though, comes at a price. Remember that while you may pay a bit more for your pavers initially, the precise manufacturing processes and insurmountable quality will ensure that your materials pay you back in full.

It’s Designed to Endure the Harshest Weather

As seasoned veterans of the long, harsh winters that are so common here in NJ, most of our customers have concerns about the durability and longevity of Techo-Bloc products. After all, Techo-Bloc prices are certainly not worth it unless the pavers are built to last.

We’re here to assure you that Techo-Bloc takes pride in developing products that are able to withstand even the most challenging temperatures and weather conditions. The pavers won’t fade when exposed to the sun, won’t crack when faced with freeze-and-thaw cycles, and won’t be harmed by wind, rain, or snow.

Techo-Bloc can handle whatever Mother Nature throws its way. Once again, any extra expenses associated with Techo-Bloc over other landscaping and hardscaping materials are totally worth it when you consider how much time, money, and stress you’ll save from not having to worry about repairs after a storm.

It Increases Property Value

After taking the time to revamp your landscape, you want to know that your efforts paid off. Of course you want to be personally happy with the results, but you also want to be able to count on the fact that your property’s curb appeal and value has actually increased.

Because Techo-Bloc is such a highly sought-after hardscaping material, you’ll find that your home’s value will instantly increase when the pavers are carefully and correctly installed and maintained. In other words, by spending a little bit of money on Techo-Bloc products right now, you can get more money out of your home when you go to sell it later down the road.

It’s Guaranteed for Life

Completing your landscaping project with cheaper materials may seem tempting at first, but we urge you to reconsider. While you might save money initially, you’ll end up spending more money over a lifetime on repairs or replacements than you would have spent had you just gone with a brand like Techo-Bloc in the first place.

Techo-Bloc prices are initially higher because of the quality of the materials. The company is so confident in the durability of its materials that it offers a lifetime warranty on its pavers.

This means that even in the off-chance that something does go wrong with on of your manufactured stones, you won’t need to spend any more money on materials for repairs.

Tips for Budgeting Around Techo-Bloc Prices

You know that Techo-Bloc prices are worth it, but have you been schooled in the ways of making your project expenses as reasonable and budget-friendly as possible? Here are a few tips:

Choose an Authorized Dealer

Techo-Bloc only sells its materials through authorized dealers or vendors. It’s important that you make sure that you work with an authorized dealer for several reasons. First, you don’t want to find out that you actually purchased a cheap knockoff rather than the real thing.

Secondly, you want to make sure that the company you buy from is up-to-date with all of Techo-Bloc’s latest product offerings and directions for installation, care and maintenance. Lastly, doing so will ensure that you get the best and fairest deal on your pavers.

Hire a Contractor That’s Familiar with Techo-Bloc

Techo-Bloc is quite simple to install, and those who are comfortable with Do-It-Yourself projects won’t have any issue doing the work on their own. If you’d feel more comfortable leaving the job to the professionals, though, we urge you to look for a reliable contractor that you can trust to get the job done right.

Make sure that your contractor not only offers you a fair price, but also has experience with working with Techo-Bloc. If you’re not sure, you might consider asking your authored dealer for recommendations and tips.

Seal Your Pavers

Sealing your Techo-Bloc pavers may seem like an unnecessary expense, but it actually works to protect your investment. Taking the time to properly seal your finished project area will keep your Techo-Bloc looking and functioning perfectly in the many years ahead so that you can enjoy your hardscape (without the need for replacements) for generations.

Follow Maintenance Directives

Always make sure that you take care to follow any manufacturer’s directions or specifications for providing care and maintenance for your Techo-Bloc pavers. Doing so won’t save you money initially, but it will make sure that your lifetime guarantee remains valid so that you won’t need to pay for materials in the event that you need repair work.

Where to Buy Techo-Bloc in NJ

Braen Supply is an authorized Techo-Bloc dealer and offers the fairest Techo-Bloc prices in NJ. Our team of professionals are all knowledgeable about the Techo-Bloc products we sell and are qualified to answer any questions you may have or to provide you with tips and advice for your upcoming project.

We can also connect you with contractors who know how to work with Techo-Bloc pavers. Our Techo-Bloc products can be picked up or bulk delivered to locations throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC and PA.

How Can I Make My Own Techo-Bloc Pizza Oven in NJ?

With such a large Italian-American population, it’s no wonder that NJ has gone crazy about outdoor pizza ovens. Seeded in old world tradition, these outdoor, fire powered ovens are capable of bringing bold, rich flavor and texture to pizza and all of your favorite dishes – fast!

Techo-Bloc designs and manufactures are some of the most sought-after outdoor pizza ovens in NJ. Known for their cooking power, efficiency and beauty, a Techo-Bloc pizza oven can act as the centerpiece of your outdoor living space.

Ready to start enjoying a Techo-Bloc outdoor pizza oven of your very own? Our experts have assembled everything you need to know about choosing and installing the pizza oven of your dreams.

Why Techo-Bloc Outdoor Pizza Ovens?

First things first: Why should you choose a Techo-Bloc outdoor pizza oven for your NJ home? Here’s a look at just some of the many benefits associated with doing so:

Beauty

Techo-Bloc takes pride in designing stunning outdoor pizza ovens that mirror the beauty of natural stone. Each pizza oven features concrete units that have been crafted to mimic the colors, shapes and textures found in nature. Even the most well-trained eye won’t be able to tell the difference.

Variety

Techo-Bloc offers several different pizza oven kits in order to accommodate homeowner needs. Whether you desire a more rustic-looking unit or prefer something modern and sleek, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for.

Affordable

When compared to natural stone pizza ovens and other manufactured stone outdoor pizza ovens, Techo-Bloc offers some of the most affordable units on the market.

Ease of Incorporation

Techo-Bloc pizza ovens are designed to compliment other outdoor kitchen and outdoor living features, such as countertops, fireplaces and patio pavers. This means that it’s very easy for you to create a uniform outdoor living space.

Healthy Living

The wood fired outdoor pizza ovens produced by Techo-Bloc offer a healthy means of cooking up pizzas and other dishes. Not only is it healthy for you, but it’s healthier for the environment, as you’ll be cutting back on your energy consumption.

Delicious Food

There’s simply no comparison for the rich and delightful flavors associated with foods prepared on a Techo-Bloc outdoor pizza oven. Your friends and family will all love gathering at your home for some of the most mouth-watering and memorable dinners of their lives.

Installing Your Techo-Bloc Outdoor Pizza Oven

Techo-Bloc makes it easy for skilled do-it-yourself types to install a beautiful, effective and long-lasting outdoor pizza oven. Whether you’ve decided to handle the work on your own or hire a professional, though, it’s important that you understand the necessary steps to be taken throughout the installation process:

Verify Local Regulations

Before anything else, you need to check with your local authorities to make sure that there’s nothing in your city or county safety regulations that would prevent you from being able to install and use an outdoor pizza oven. Make sure that you verify standards for where outdoor pizza ovens can be installed and take note of any special requirements or restrictions to ensure that you choose the right unit for your home.

Choose a Location

Next, you need to determine where your Techo-Bloc outdoor pizza oven will be situated. Although it should go without saying, an outdoor pizza oven is intended for outdoor use only.

Attempting to use the wood fired pizza oven in an indoor or enclosed space can be extremely dangerous. Find a suitable location in your outdoor living space.

It should be noted that pizza ovens should generally be located at least 19.6′ away from any structure, including garages and gazebos. This is an important safety measure.

Make sure, too, that your pizza oven will not be in a position where it blocks you or your family from being able to access other areas of your landscape. Finally, keep in mind that some of the Techo-Bloc pizza ovens are pre-assembled.

As a result, you need to make sure that your delivery service will be able to maneuver the pre-assembled oven and actually get it into the area where the oven will be permanently seated.

Excavate the Area

Whether the Techo-Bloc outdoor pizza oven is coming to your home pre-assembled or not, you’ll still need to take measures to prepare the foundation and excavate the area where the pizza oven will sit. A concrete foundation will need to be poured for the pizza oven, and this foundation must meet local regulations and standards.

Depending on what your locale requires, you’ll need to excavate the area to a specific width and depth. Make sure that the area is free of any rocks, roots, and other debris an that it is firmly compacted to support the concrete and pizza oven. You may need to rent special excavation equipment to make the task faster and simpler.

Installation

As mentioned previously, most Techo-Bloc outdoor pizza ovens will actually arrive at your home pre-assembled. This means that you won’t have to do a lot of work to actually install the pizza oven.

Because of the weight and size of the oven, though, you will need the help of a forklift in order to maneuver the unit and get it seated on the prepared concrete foundation. Once situated, the shipping screws and straps will need to be removed, wood boxes can be situated on either side of the oven, and you’ll be ready to light your first fire.

In the case of Techo-Bloc pizza ovens like the unit in the Valencia product line, however, more work will be involved. Keep this in mind when selecting your pizza oven.

If you go this route you will need to be prepared to take steps to lay down and glue rows of masonry units and caps together in order to complete the assembly of the oven. Specific manufacturer instructions are available on the Techo-Bloc website to ensure that the installation goes off without a hitch.

Enjoy and Maintain

Once installed, you’re ready to start enjoying it. Be sure to follow manufacturer specifications when cooking with your oven, and take care to properly clean the oven after each use. Cover the oven when not in use for protection against wind, rain, and snow.

Buying a Techo-Bloc Outdoor Pizza Oven in NJ

Braen Supply is the top supplier of Techo-Bloc outdoor pizza ovens in NJ and its neighboring areas. We are authorized Techo-Bloc dealers, and our strong partnership with Techo-Bloc ensures that we always carry the latest product offerings and have the most accurate, up-to-date information on their product lines.

Our team is very knowledgeable about each of the Techo-Bloc outdoor pizza ovens that we sell, and are more than capable of helping you select the right oven for your home. We’ll provide you with advice on installing your oven, or can suggest a reliable, local contractor that’s familiar with Techo-Bloc products. We sell Techo-Bloc outdoor pizza ovens at the fairest and most competitive prices around. Talk to one of our experts about setting your NJ, NY, NYC or PA home up with an outdoor pizza oven today.

Commercial Ice Melt: The Best Rock Salt for Your Home

The kids are heading back to school and the fall and winter months are coming up quickly. That, of course, means that we can start to expect frost, sleet, ice and snow. Are you prepared?

Savvy NJ homeowners make the decision to stock up on high-quality commercial ice melt before the midnight hour. This means that you need to know which type of rock salt is best for your home, how much to purchase and where you can get it for the lowest prices. Fortunately, you don’t have to be an ice melt expert to obtain this type of information. As the experts, we’re here to provide you with the 411 on the ideal commercial ice melt for your home.

Why Commercial Ice Melt?

When you hear the words “commercial ice melt”, you might think of big snow plows distributing rock salt across the city streets, or major business parks and school campuses preparing for the winter. Why would your home ever require a commercial grade deicer? While you might not need to use the same bulk quantities of commercial ice melt, though, you and your family certainly deserve the same quality that commercial blends have to offer.

Commercial deicers work quickly, efficiently, and effectively so that your home’s driveway, walkways, patio and other surfaces are safe to walk and drive upon – no matter what. They’re also easy to apply, safe to use and extremely affordable. What’s not to love?

Safer-Than-Salt: The Best Commercial Ice Melt

So you’ve come to the decision that a commercial ice melt is a great choice for your home – now what? If you start looking at your options, you may initially feel overwhelmed by the different available products. When you know what to look for from the very best commercial blend deicers, though, you’ll realize that there’s really only one choice: Safer-Than-Salt.

Safer-Than-Salt is a commercial formula ice melt that has been designed to melt snow and ice faster than other products, and to make sure that it stays melted. The product is comprised of a proprietary mix of sodium chloride (traditional rock salt), calcium chloride, potassium chloride and magnesium chloride. The ice melt is then coated with calcium magnesium acetate (CMA). The combination of these makes it possible not only for the ice melt to lower the freezing point of water to -25 degrees Fahrenheit, but it also allows the ice melt to heat snow and ice exothermically, thus speeding up the melting process.

Homeowners can enjoy working with Safer-Than-Salt in 2 ways: by picking up the commercial ice melt or by selecting the Breeder’s Preferred blend, which is intended for use in homes with pets. Both products can be purchased by the bag, the pallet (49 bags per pallet), or the truckload (18 pallets per truckload). This means that homeowners with properties large and small can get the best possible deal when stocking up on Safer-Than-Salt.

Benefits of Safer-Than-Salt Commercial Ice Melt

Don’t just take our word that Safer-Than-Salt is the best commercial deicer. The facts speak for themselves. Here’s a look at some of the many advantages to working with Safer-Than-Salt:

Melting Power

When compared to other ice melting products, Safer-Than-Salt is more powerful, obliterating snow and ice and creating a clear path for you and your loved ones.

Speed

Don’t stand around waiting for your ice melt to start working – watch it in action! Safer-Than-Salt immediately begins heating the snow and ice around it while lowering the freezing point of water so that you can get on your way quickly.

Freezing Point

Because Safer-Than-Salt has such a low freezing point, you won’t have to worry about water re-freezing each time the temperature drops. This will reduce the amount of ice melt that you need to use and will ensure that your concrete and paved surfaces aren’t prone to cracking and scarring.

Coloration

Safer-Than-Salt is tinted pink to make it easy for you to see where you have already spread your ice melt. This will improve safety and decrease the amount of ice melt that you spread.

Child Safety

Safer-Than-Salt is safe to use in areas where children are at play. It is less toxic and is easy to spot.

Pet Safety

Some commercial ice melt products can cause serious irritation and even chemical burning on the paws of dogs, cats and other animals. Safer-Than-Salt is formulated to protect an animal’s paws while also being less toxic, thus improving safety in the event that your pet accidentally consumes snow that has been exposed to your ice melting product.

Environmental Safety

Safer-Than-Salt is designed to be less corrosive and less harmful to plants and vegetation surrounding your driveways, walkways, and other paved surfaces.

Affordable

Safer-Than-Salt is one of the most affordable commercial ice melt products on the market – especially when you buy in bulk quantities.

Stocking Up on Safer-Than-Salt

Once you’ve made the decision to work with Safer-Than-Salt, it’s time to start stocking up. Ordering your ice melt in advance is always a smart idea in areas like NJ which are prone to harsh winters. It’s best to be prepared before the cold weather strikes, and to have enough on hand to avoid getting caught in the middle of an ice melt shortage.

To determine how much ice melt to purchase you’ll need to carefully measure the length and width of your coverage area in feet. This will reveal the square footage of the area to be covered with ice melt. Next, multiply the square footage by 3.1 to determine how many pounds of rock salt will be required. Finally, divide the pounds of rock salt needed by 50. This will be the number of bags that you’ll need to purchase.

Remember that this will yield enough rock salt for one winter storm. According to US Climate Data, New Jersey experiences approximately 38 days with precipitation from November to February, so you’ll need to plan accordingly.

If you determine that you’ll need 49 bags of ice melt or fewer to get you through the winter, you’ll fare best by purchasing individual bags of deicer. Any more than this and you’ll want to look into maximizing your savings by purchasing by the pallet. You may even consider getting together with your neighbors to order a bulk quantity and split the bill as this will allow all of you to enjoy bulk savings.

Buying Safer-Than-Salt Commercial Ice Melt in NJ

Braen Supply is the largest and most trusted supplier of Safer-Than-Salt commercial ice melt and Breeder’s Preferred in NJ and its surrounding areas. We carry a massive inventory of ice melt to ensure that you’re able to order the quantity you need to get you safely through the winter. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have or to help you calculate your needs. Our Safer-Than-Salt commercial ice melt is available at competitive, wholesale prices and can be picked up or bulk delivered to areas throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC and PA.

The Safest Rock Salt to Use on Concrete Driveways

Snow and ice are a hazard of NJ winters. In order to keep roads, driveways and sidewalks safe, property owners must make use of a reliable ice melting product. While traditional sodium chloride (rock salt) has historically been the most popular option, many people are starting to question its usage on concrete surfaces. Is there a better, safer solution? This post will discuss why you might want to consider working with a rock salt alternative, and how to choose the right type of ice melt to use on your concrete pavement.

Problems Associated with Rock Salt on Concrete

Rock salt has long been considered a wintertime staple for those living in colder climates. When the sodium chloride combines with water, it creates a brine solution that has a freezing temperature much lower than that of water. As a result, it’s effective in its ability to melt snow and ice and prevent new problem spots from developing. Unfortunately, though, using rock salt on concrete can be problematic.

Throughout the years, some people began to notice problems with their roads, driveways and other surfaces after rock salt had been applied. In some cases, the concrete would seem to weaken, resulting in potholes and similar issues. In other instances, the concrete would become corroded or discolored. It was determined that the use of rock salt on concrete was the culprit.

But what was the cause? Concrete is somewhat porous, and can be prone to small fissures. When rock salt is applied to concrete, any existing snow or ice will melt. Some of this liquid will find its way into pores or fissures. Because sodium chloride will begin to freeze at 25 degrees Fahrenheit, the water will re-freeze in the cracks on especially cold days or nights. When this happens, the ice will expand and create larger gaps, holes, and weak points. In addition to everything else, the rock salt may react with the concrete, corroding the surface and leaving a residue.

Since discovering these issues, many folks have made the decision to seek out rock salt alternatives for their winter maintenance needs.

Top Alternatives for Rock Salt on Concrete

Just because rock salt on concrete can be problematic doesn’t mean that your property needs to be unsafe and unprotected throughout the winter months. There are numerous alternatives to traditional rock salt which are very affordable and highly effective.

Calcium Chloride – Because NJ and its neighboring areas are so prone to extremely low temperatures during the winter, we recommend that our customers look for products which contain a high percentage of calcium chloride. Calcium chloride has the lowest freezing point. This means any snow or ice it melts will remain in liquid form, even when temperatures plummet. The result is that your concrete surfaces will be free and clear of slippery spots and you won’t need to worry about the harmful impact of repeated freeze-and-thaw cycles on your concrete. The product with the highest concentration of calcium chloride is Peladow Calcium Chloride Pellets. This particular ice melt can be purchased by the bag or pallet, and is very easy to spread and use. It contains more than 90% calcium chloride and works to lower the freezing point of water and to heat snow and ice exothermically at the same time. This makes it possible for the product to melt snow and ice 2-5 times faster than traditional rock salt. If you’re unable to obtain Peladow Calcium Chloride Pellets, we would also recommend Dowflake Xtra. This product contains 83-87% calcium chloride and also works quickly and in a range of extreme temperatures. Dowflake Xtra is ideal for high traffic areas where pellets or crystals could be a tripping hazard.
Calcium Magnesium Acetate – Calcium Magnesium Acetate is another reliable and safe alternative to rock salt on concrete. It has incredible melting power and exothermic properties. Those who choose to work with CMA-based products will also be able to enjoy options in terms of providing safe ice melting materials for use around children, animals, and pets. Safer Than Salt and Safer Than Salt Breeder’s Preferred are designed to work in extremely low temperatures without posing a safety threat to the most precious members of your families. The flakes are tinted to make it easy to see where the ice melt has been spread, and the product is less toxic to children and animals, should they accidentally ingest snow that contains the ice melt. In addition to this, the ice melt will not cause chemical burning or irritation in the paws of dogs and cats. Those who have concerns about the environment might also choose to work with a CMA-based product called Environmelt. This type of ice melt will quickly and efficiently take care of snow and ice without posing a threat to the vegetation throughout your property or harming the groundwater supply.

Choosing the Best Ice Melt

So which is the best alternative to rock salt on concrete for your property? Both calcium chloride and calcium magnesium acetate are excellent options in terms of sheer melting power. These two rock salt alternatives are capable of breaking down snow and ice quickly and will make sure that it stays melted. The liquid won’t re-freeze and create cracks or fissures on your concrete even on the coldest of winter days. Choosing between the two different types of ice melt, then, will ultimately come down to your personal needs and preferences.

If you need to create a flat surface for walking, we recommend that you work with a flakey ice melt like DowFlake Xtra. Those who have children will feel comforted by working with a product like Safer Than Salt which is intended to establish a safer environment for children to live and play around. Safer Than Salt Breeder’s Preferred offers the same benefit but is also suitable for those with pets and concerns about animals. If you take pride in living a “green” lifestyle, you’ll want to consider Environmelt. Narrowing down your unique needs and lifestyle objectives will help you to make the best decision for your home.

Once you’ve determined which type of alternative to rock salt on concrete is right for your home, we recommend that you plan on stocking up in advance. While rock salt is typically available throughout the winter season, more powerful ice melting products like calcium chloride and calcium magnesium acetate have been known to fly off the shelves and stores run out of stock when the winters are especially long or cold. We encourage you to talk with your rock salt supplier to discuss the size of your property and to determine how much material you’ll need to buy to get you safely through the winter.

Where to Buy Rock Salt Alternatives in NJ

Braen Supply offers a massive inventory of alternatives to rock salt on concrete. We carry products that are comprised of both calcium chloride and calcium magnesium acetate to ensure that you find the best fit for your property. Our materials are safe for use on and around concrete so you never have to worry about damaged pavement. Our ice melting products can be picked up at your convenience or bulk delivered to areas throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC and PA.

What are the Safest & Most Affordable Ice Melts for Asphalt Driveways in NJ?

If you’ve got an asphalt driveway, you take pride in the way that it looks. Asphalt, after all, is known for its smooth, sleek appearance and you want to make sure that it stays that way no matter what’s going on with the weather.

It’s because of this that we receive so many inquiries throughout the winter months regarding whether or not home and business owners should use rock salt, and which ice melting materials are the safest for asphalt while still being effective and affordable.

In order to better address these questions we have put together an entire post that is dedicated to discussing how to choose and use ice melt on an asphalt driveway and how to best care for your drive throughout the coldest months of the year.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Ice Melt for Asphalt

Why does selecting the right ice melt for your asphalt driveway matter so much? Here are a few of the consequences that come from choosing the wrong product:

Cracking – Moisture really is the Number One enemy of any asphalt driveway or surface. When moisture is able to seep into tiny fissures in the surface of the asphalt, it is able to wreak havoc beneath – especially if it freezes. When you don’t use an ice melt that is designed to be effective even in the frigid temperatures that are so common to NJ, you could face issues with ice forming within these seemingly insignificant cracks. Soon even the smallest of fissures has expanded out into a major crevice or pot hole that will require a lot of repair work come spring. It’s important, then, to consider your local climate and to take a look at the products which are compatible in terms of how they hold up in specific temperature ranges.
Corrosion – There are certain types of rock salt and ice melt which are known to be somewhat corrosive upon certain surfaces. This can detract from the physical integrity of your driveway’s surface. In time, this may make it difficult or unsafe for you to walk and drive upon the asphalt, so be sure to avoid ice melting materials with corrosive properties.
Discoloration – Asphalt is frequently selected because home and business owners like the look and color of the material. The last thing you want, then is for your rock salt to cause the coloring to fade or become patchy. Taking the time to research your options will help you to prevent discoloration that will detract from property value and your overall level of satisfaction with your driveway’s appearance.

A Closer Look at Asphalt Strengths and Vulnerabilities

A great thing about asphalt is that it isn’t as rigid as concrete or other paving options. This means that it is able to expand and contract as the weather changes and will be less likely to crack. At the same time, it absorbs heat more than other surfacing materials which means that less rock salt and ice melt is required in order to keep snow and ice at bay.

Finally, asphalt is generally less vulnerable to damages from the use of salt, such as corrosion. Even so, it’s important to understand that asphalt isn’t immune to problems with ice melt. Ineffective or inefficient materials can cause ice to continuously freeze and thaw which will enable moisture to penetrate the driveway and create huge cracks and scars.

The brine can also seep through into the groundwater supply and contaminate it if dangerous chemicals are selected. It is extremely important, therefore, that you take the time to research your options and select a material that is safe and ideally suited for use on asphalt driveways and similar surfaces.

Safest Types of Ice Melt for Asphalt

Although asphalt is quite resilient, we still tend to recommend that you use certain products over others. Here’s a breakdown of the ice melting materials that we generally suggest to our customers with asphalt driveways and surfaces:

Calcium Chloride Crystals or Pellets – Calcium chloride is known for its ability to quickly and efficiently melt existing snow and ice and prevent new formations. It is exothermic which speeds up the process even further. The material is able to continue working even when the temperatures outdoors dip well below 0 degrees Fahrenheit which means that you won’t have to worry about water freezing again in the event of a drop in temperature.
EnvironMelt – Those who have any concerns about vegetation or the environment should take a closer look at EnvironMelt. This highly effective ice melting product is chemically engineered to be safer for use around plants and less toxic to the groundwater supply. In the event that any melted water should seep into fissures within your driveway and find its way back into the earth, you can rest assured that you’re doing your part to protect the ground supply from chemical damages.
Safer Than Salt (Commercial or Breeder’s Preferred) – Like calcium chloride crystals and pellets, Safer Than Salt also makes use of the same chemically-engineered ice melting materials in order to exothermically boost the process of melting snow and ice while also creating a brine that will stay in liquid form even when it’s very cold outside. The added benefit here is that the ice melt is not only safe for asphalt surfaces but that it’s also safe for use around children and pets. You’ll find that in the commercial blend, Safer Than Salt features colored pellets to make it easier to see how much ice melt has been spread and where it is located. The materials are less toxic and won’t cause irritation and burning in the paws of your precious pets.
DowFlake Xtra – DowFlake Xtra is a great option for asphalt surfaces where there will be a great deal of foot traffic – especially from elderly populations or persons who are prone to trip-and-fall accidents. Because the flakes lay flush to the ground, they make it easier to tread upon without the danger of slipping and falling. The flakes are comprised of fast-acting and highly effective calcium chloride for maximum melting power.
Magnesium Chloride Pellets – Magnesium chloride is another extremely popular option for those who are interested in sheer melting power – even in the most frigid of winter conditions. Keep in mind, though, that magnesium chloride is on strict allocation for suppliers throughout the country. It’s important, then, to buy your materials in advance to be sure that supplies don’t run out of stock.

The Largest Asphalt-Friendly Ice Melt Supplier in NJ

NJ residents with asphalt driveways and parking lots know that Braen Supply is the largest supplier of asphalt-friendly ice melt throughout NJ and its many surrounding areas. We carry a wide variety of different ice melting products, all of which can be used safely and effectively on and around asphalt.

Our staff is familiar with each of the products that we sell and can answer all of your questions and point you in the right direction when selecting your materials. You’ll find that our ice melt is competitively priced and can be purchased by the bag, pallet or truckload. Our ice melting products can be picked up or bulk delivered to locations in NJ, NY, PA and CT.

Beginner’s Guide To Bulk Rock Salt Suppliers

Whether you’re a first-time homeowner who is planning to purchase rock salt for the first time this winter, or are simply looking to up your rock salt game this year, it’s extremely important that you know where to go to make your purchases.

Although there are certainly plenty of retail locations that sell rock salt and other ice melting materials, not all of these options are wise for your budget or your well-being.

So how do you begin to sort through your prospects and narrow them down to just one superior bulk rock salt supplier? This tell-all guide will reveal all of the characteristics of the best supply companies so that you can make the best possible decision.

8 Traits of a Superior Bulk Rock Salt Supplier

1. Well-Established

It’s always in your best interest to seek out a bulk rock salt supplier that has been in operations for an established length of time. You’ll find that, throughout the winter, there may be certain vendors that seem to pop up “overnight”, setting up shop to sell seasonal items.

Because these are only temporary businesses, there’s no way for you to have any guarantee whatsoever regarding their quality or reliability as a vendor. In addition to being a well established business, you should also be sure that the company is established within the industry.

Although your local grocer might offer the convenience of selling bags of rock salt, these businesses aren’t familiar with which products are best for specific property types. You’ll get the best results when you go to a landscaping supplier that has built a solid reputation for offering high quality ice melting materials at reasonable prices.

2. Locally Owned and Operated

Staying local with your rock salt purchases is ideal. Although it’s possible to find and purchase rock salt and other ice melting materials online, this isn’t the best option. First, it will take longer for the materials to get to you which could leave you in a bind, should the weather pick up before you’re ready for it.

Secondly, you’ll end up spending extra money on shipping or transportation. Major chain suppliers are another no-no for buying rock salt. The large, nationally recognized vendors like Home Depot and Lowes are often stocked up for the winter, but because they are such major brands, you are likely to find that they inflate their prices in order to maximize their profits.

3. Large Inventory

A good bulk rock salt supplier will carry a wide range of products so that you have plenty of ice melting materials to choose from. Different property owners and contractors have different needs for the winter.

Whereas some are more concerned about the safety of pets and children, others will need to think about sheer melting power or the amount of residue that could get left behind by the deicer.

Numerous products have been formulated to cater to very specific demands, and your rock salt supplier should be able to address your unique requirements by selling a material that is designed with you in mind.

4. Knowledgeable Staff

We cannot stress enough the importance of seeking out a bulk rock salt supplier that employees knowledgeable and professional staff members. When you walk into your supplier’s store, you may initially feel overwhelmed by the many different types of ice melting materials that are available.

It’s the supplier’s staff’s job to narrow down this selection to one or two products that would best suit your individual needs. This can only happen when every team member is familiar with the specifications of the various ice melting materials on offer. Never hesitate to ask questions of the sales representatives who are walking the floor.

Make note of how confident they appear as they address your questions and how much information they are able to provide you with. This is a strong indicator of whether or not you can trust your supplier.

5. Excellent Customer Service

Knowing it all really only goes so far. In fact, having information doesn’t mean that much if the supplier’s staff are rude and difficult to work with. Customer service is everything, and you should expect the very best from your bulk rock salt supplier. One of the best ways to learn about your prospective supplier’s service reputation is to do a quick online search for references, or even to ask the company for a list of references from satisfied customers.

Other key indicators of quality customer care and service are an honest desire to answer all of your questions and work with you to ensure that your needs are met, a commitment to helping you accurately calculate how much ice melt to purchase and helpfulness throughout the process of scheduling any bulk order deliveries.

6. Purchasing Options

Every different individual, company or contractor will require different volumes of rock salt based upon the size of their properties, the type of ice melt selected and the weather conditions associated with their locales. This means that your bulk rock salt supplier should offer various means of purchasing ice melt.

Typically, you’ll find that the best suppliers will offer materials by the bag, by the pallet and by the truckload. Your supplier should help you to calculate how much rock salt you’re likely to need to get through the winter months, and then help you to determine whether you’d be better served to buy by the bag or to order a bulk quantity.

Keep in mind that the majority of suppliers will offer discounted pricing for bulk quantities, which can add up to big savings.

7. Fair, Competitive Pricing

The last thing you want is to find out that you’ve overspent on your ice melting materials. If you take the time to select a fair and honest bulk rock salt supplier, you will never need to worry about this. Be on the lookout for customer reviews about your prospect’s pricing.

Do a little research of your own to see how upfront and open the supplier is about its rock salt prices. Lastly, shop around and see how much competitors are charging for similar materials. Suppliers with prices much higher or lower than average should send up a red flag that something isn’t quite right.

8. Bulk Delivery Services

If you’re purchasing your rock salt materials in bulk, you obviously need to have a bulk delivery service available to get your order to your property or storage facility. Look for an ice melt supplier that offers low-cost bulk delivery services. Make sure that the company is fully licensed and insured to make deliveries and is flexible in coordinating drop-offs.

For years, Braen Supply has been recognized as NJ’s leading bulk rock salt supplier. We carry a massive inventory of rock salt and ice melting products which are formulated to suit the needs of all of our customers. Our team of experts is happy to point you in the direction of the right deicer for your property’s unique demands.

We offer the lowest, most competitive prices around. Our rock salt can be purchased by the bag, and in most instances, can be purchased in bulk quantities for pickup or bulk delivery to areas throughout NJ, NY, PA and CT.

Rock Salt for Sale in NJ: Your Buying Guide

What do you know about rock salt, exactly? Sure, you’re probably well aware of the fact that this compound is capable of lowering the freezing temperature of water, thus effectively melting snow and ice from driveways and sidewalks.

What about the distinctions between different types of ice melting materials, though? Are you able to pinpoint the product that will best cater to your needs? Do you know where to find quality rock salt for sale in your area?

Do you know how much you’ll need to buy in order to get through the winter? If you’ve answered “no” to one or more of these questions, this guide to choosing and using rock salt for sale in NJ is tailor-made for you.

Types of Rock Salt for Sale in NJ

Those who aren’t familiar with the different ice melting products may find themselves overwhelmed by the sheer volume of options. What sets one type apart from another, and why are there so many different varieties to begin with?

Depending on your home or business’s individual needs, you may find that you require rock salt that is safe for pets and children, or maybe even one that won’t end up leaving a trail of residue behind when going indoors. Each product comes with its own unique sets of advantages.

Here’s a closer look at the most common user needs, and the types of rock salt for sale that will suit them:

Child Safety – Homeowners with children, schools, daycares and churches are amongst the many consumers who have concerns with buying rock salt that will be harmful or dangerous to use around children. If you are applying ice melt to an area where children are likely to be present, we would strongly recommend that you seek out a product like Safer-Than-Salt, which is specifically formulated to be less toxic and hazardous to children while still remaining extremely efficient and effective in terms of sheer melting power. The crystals are also colorized which makes it easier to spot areas where ice melt has been poured.
Pet Safety – Pets are like our furry children, and there are a lot of people who want to ensure that their cats and dogs will be protected against the potentially harmful effects of rock salt or ice melt. When animals walk through areas with deicers, the crystals can stick to their paws. Once indoors, the crystals can overheat or cause chemical burning and discomfort. In addition to this, rock salt that is ingested by animals can lead to upset stomachs and other health complications. Fortunately, animal lovers can turn to products like Safer-Than-Salt Breeder’s Preferred for an ice melting material that has their pet’s best interests in mind while working wonders on snow and ice.
Elder Safety – Those who care for the elderly and/or persons with mobility issues may find themselves worrying about potential hazards created by the presence of rock salt on sidewalks and other similar surfaces. Because pellets and crystals are not flush to the ground, they can cause some to slip or slide and lose their balance. The solution to this problem is to look for rock salt for sale in flake form. We strongly recommend DowFlake Xtra Calcium Chloride. The flakes are very fast-acting and will continue to remain in place once they have been poured which minimizes any safety risk to pedestrians.
Speed and Melting Power – If sheer speed and melting power are what interest you the most, you’re in luck. There are tons of excellent products that are capable of working quickly and in the most extreme temperatures. Our favorite products for this purpose include deicers that utilize calcium chloride, magnesium chloride or calcium magnesium acetate. These products immediately form a brine with ice and snow which causes ice to melt quickly thusly preventing ice from re-forming later.
Environmental Concerns – These days, many of us are interested in utilizing products which are considered to be eco-friendly. Some types of ice melting materials, however, may cause some harm to surrounding vegetation. If this is a concern for you, it’s important to find a supplier that sells environmentally friendly rock salt like EnvironMelt. The calcium magnesium acetate (CMA) used in this type of ice melt is less harmful to grass, trees and shrubs as it is less corrosive to wood and concrete. It also works effectively in the extremely cold temperatures that are common here in the northeast.
Price – For many people, price is a major factor in selecting the type of rock salt for sale that they’d like to purchase for their seasonal needs. It’s especially important to find a material that fits your budgetary needs when you require a great deal of ice melt to get you through the winter. Halite rock salt and Ice Patrol products are well known for being low cost without sacrificing quality. You’ll find that these materials are still capable of clearing your property of snow and ice.
Bulk Quantities – Cities, large school/hospital campuses and contractors all find themselves in need of very large quantities of rock salt each year. Due to the fact that bulk orders of ice melting products are priced lower than purchasing individual bags, it’s always wise to find a supplier that carries the materials you need in bulk. Be advised, that, at least for the 2015-2016 season, national rock salt suppliers are on strict allocation for certain products, such as magnesium chloride pellets, and, as such, will not be able to offer these deicers in bulk.

Determining How Much Rock Salt to Purchase

The volume of rock salt that you will require depends on several factors. First, you need to consider the overall size of your coverage area in terms of square feet. Then, you’ll need to carefully read the manufacturer’s instructions to see how much ice melt is to be spread per square foot.

Lastly, you should think about how much snow and ice you are likely to receive in your area throughout the season. In the case of the winter of 2015-2016, we’re looking at an El Nino year where the chances of high levels of precipitation are great. Although we highly recommend that you discuss your needs with a professional, the general formula that can be followed is:

3.1 x Square Footage of Coverage Area (Driveway, Walkway, Parking Lot) = Total Pounds of Rock Salt Required
Total Pounds of Rock Salt Required / 50 = Total Bags of Rock Salt Required

Where to Find Rock Salt for Sale in NJ

Braen Supply is the leading supplier of rock salt and other ice melting products throughout all of NJ and its surrounding areas. Unlike other retailers, we carry a massive inventory of products that cater to a wide range of user needs so that you don’t have to settle for anything less than the best solution for your property.

We offer competitive pricing on all of our materials so that our customers are able to stock up on a budget they can afford. The majority of our ice melting materials are available in bulk quantities and can be picked up at your convenience or bulk delivered to locations throughout NJ, NY, PA and CT.

Bulk Rock Salt: The Ultimate Pricing Guide

bulk rock salt Wintertime may be covered in a blanket of white, but many people are still seeing the green of dollar signs. This time of year means spending money on food, family get-togethers, presents, and, yes – rock salt.

The good news is that there’s no reason for you to break your bank account on purchasing ice melting materials this 2015-2016 season.

Homeowners, businesses and other organizations that require rock salt will find that by understanding what goes into the pricing of deicers, and choosing to buy their materials in bulk, they’ll end up saving a lot of money – regardless of how cold it gets out there.

To better prepare yourself and take advantage of these savings opportunities, here’s an in-depth look at everything you need to know about purchasing bulk rock salt.

Why should I buy bulk rock salt?

First of all, why would you make the decision to purchase your ice melting materials in bulk? After all, how much rock salt could you really need to get through the season? The answer to this question may actually surprise you. Considering the fact that we’re entering into an El Nino winter, NJ and NY residents need to be prepared for several months filled with high levels of precipitation.

You need to have plenty of ice melt on hand to combat these formations throughout your property all season long. In previous years, many people have learned the hard way that short-stocking their rock salt supply is a grave mistake. With the harsh winters that we’ve seen, it hasn’t been uncommon for suppliers to run out of materials in the face of rock salt shortages.

Only those who anticipated their seasonal needs and purchased their materials well in advance were not affected by the spikes in price or the utter inability to track down ice melt. Carefully calculating your rock salt needs and then buying in bulk is the best way to prevent disasters like these.

In addition to preparedness, cost is another great motivator for purchasing bulk rock salt. When sold by the individual bag, ice melt is more expensive than when you put in a larger order for a pallet or truckload of materials. These savings have the potential to add up quickly and save you from a lot of financial grief throughout the holiday season and all winter long.

How much bulk rock salt do I need?

Having the ability to calculate the volume of bulk rock salt that you’ll need to get your property through the icy winter is the key to maximizing your savings and eliminating stress. Determining the quantity of material to purchase will require a lot more than simply “eyeballing it” or “guesstimating.” Instead, you’ll need to take careful and accurate measurements of your coverage area in order to determine how many square feet of ground surface you’ll need to cover.

Once you have this number, you’ll multiply the square feet of your coverage area by 3.1, which is the average recommended pounds of ice melt that should be spread per square foot. This will tell you how many pounds of ice melt you need.

Next, divide the number of pounds of ice melt needed by 50, which is the average amount of pounds of rock salt per bag. This will indicate the number of bags of ice melt that you’ll need. If your need comes to less than 49 bags, you can get away by purchasing by the bag, but otherwise you’ll need bulk rock salt.

Bulk rock salt is sold in pallets that generally contain 49 bags each, and by the truckload that typically contains 18 pallets. Remember that different manufacturers will specify varying amounts of rock salt to be spread per square foot, so always look at instructions before applying ice melt.

How much does bulk rock salt cost in NJ?

The amount that you’ll end up spending on bulk quantities of rock salt will depend on the type of ice melt that you need. Although prices are subject to change throughout the season, here are some general guidelines:

Halite – Halite, or sodium chloride, is one of the most popular types of bulk rock salt. It is frequently selected because it’s so effective in cold temperatures while also being very budget-friendly at just $6.42 per bag when bought by the pallet.
Ice Patrol – Another great option for low-cost bulk rock salt is Ice Patrol. You’ll find that this material is effective in temperatures down to 5 degrees Fahrenheit. When bought in bulk, you’ll invest only $6.42 per bag.
Safer Than Salt – Safer than Salt in its original, commercial formula is an affordable means to purchasing and utilizing an ice melting material that is not only effective, but also safe for use around your precious little ones. Each bag is only $10.43 when purchased as a part of a bulk order.
Safer Than Salt Breeder’s Preferred – The formulation of Safer than Salt was developed in response to a need for a product that is safe to use around pets. Breeder’s Preferred creates a snow and ice-free environment that won’t cause injury or harm to your four-legged friends. The ice melt is sold by the jug and costs $6.71 per jug when bought by the pallet.
EnvironMelt – Save money and the environment when you buy EnvironMelt rock salt in a bulk quantity. The eco-friendly ice melter is available at $12.16 per bag when purchased by the pallet.
Calcium Chloride Crystals – This fast-acting, exothermic ice melt costs only $12.26 per bag when you choose to order in bulk.
Calcium Chloride Pellets – Calcium chloride pellets are even faster and more effective than crystals, and when purchased by the pallet, are available at $17.75 per bag.
DowFlake Xtra Calcium Chloride – Calcium chloride ice melt in flake form lays flush to the ground which eliminates tripping hazards. It’s fast, effective, safe, and affordable at just $15.19 per bag in pallet orders.

Are there any types of rock salt that I can’t purchase in bulk?

Due to the fact that previous winters have seen peak demand for a number of ice melting products, there have been some shortages. Materials like magnesium chloride pellets have been placed on strict allocation to suppliers throughout the United States. As a result, suppliers are only able to sell so much of the material before it is sold out. This means that the deicer will not be sold by the truckload, at least throughout the 2015-2016 season.

Where should I go to purchase bulk rock salt in NJ?

Braen Supply is the most trusted name in bulk rock salt throughout NJ and its surrounding areas. We are proud to carry a wide variety of ice melting products which are suited to an array of different needs to fully satisfy all of our customers.

Our bulk rock salt is available by the pallet or by the truckload, and our team of experts is always available to help you calculate exactly how much material to purchase for your property. You’ll always enjoy the lowest and most competitive prices on the market. Our materials can be picked up or bulk delivered to locations throughout NJ, NY, PA and CT.

Bulk Rock Salt: The Ultimate Pricing Guide

As soon as the weather starts to cool off, we start getting calls from homeowners, business owners and contractors who are curious about our rock salt prices. These savvy customers are trying to forecast their budgets in advance and get prepared for the cold and wet weather ahead of us.

Of course the answers to these questions vary based upon the type of rock salt the buyer is interested in purchasing as well as how much they will need in order to get them through the season.

This comprehensive guide will give you a better idea about which ice melting products are available in bulk and how to estimate how much you’ll need to spend.

Bulk Rock Salt Available in NJ

The following types of rock salt and ice melt can be purchased by the pallet or the truckload:

Halite – Halite, which is another name for sodium chloride, is the type of rock salt that is most frequently purchased in bulk. It’s simple to use, highly effective and one of the most affordable materials available on the market. You’ll find that while Halite costs $7.39 when purchased by the bag, you’ll enjoy savings when buying in bulk as a full pallet of ice melt yields materials at $6.42 per bag.
Ice Patrol – Ice Patrol is a popular brand of rock salt that is also low-cost for superior melting power. Each 50lb. bag costs $6.42 per full pallet ($7.39 per individual bag when less than a full pallet is purchased).
Safer Than Salt Commercial – For school campuses, parks and homes with the need for larger quantities of rock salt, the safety of the materials for use around children is of extreme importance. Safer Than Salt is designed to be less toxic and safer for use around little ones. Individual bags cost $12.27, but there is a significant price drop when you buy in bulk. When purchased by the pallet you will spend just $10.43 per bag.
Safer Than Salt Breeder’s Preferred – Safer Than Salt also manufactures a product that is formulated to be safe for use around pets. This will prevent the irritation of your furry friends’ paws and will decrease the likelihood of ingestion. This type of ice melt is sold by the jug ($6.99 per individual jug) or the case. When bought by the case, each jug is $6.71. There are 4 jugs per case and 50 cases per truckload.
EnvironMelt – Those with environmental concerns will want to turn their sights to EnvironMelt, which is designed to be less corrosive and less harmful to plants, trees and shrubs. While individual bags are $14.30 each, when purchased by the full pallet that price drops down to $12.16/bag.
Calcium Chloride Crystals – Calcium chloride crystals are a great option for those in need of bulk rock salt. Calcium chloride is known for its fast-acting and exothermic qualities. In crystal form, it helps to improve traction. When buying individual bags you’ll pay $13.59 each but will pay only $12.26 per bag when a full pallet is ordered.
Calcium Chloride Pellets – Calcium chloride is even faster-acting in pellet form. Each bag of the material costs $18.69 when less than a pallet is ordered, but costs only $17.75 per bag when a full pallet is purchased. There are 55 bags per pallet and 16 bags per truckload.
DowFlake Xtra Calcium Chloride – Those who are buying bulk rock salt for hospital campuses, care centers and other areas where tripping hazards need to be prevented will appreciate calcium chloride in flake form. This type of ice melt can be purchased at $15.99 per individual bag, or for $15.19 per bag when a purchased by the full pallet. Every pallet includes 55 bags with 16 pallets per truckload.

*Note: Unless otherwise specified, a pallet consists of 49 bags and there are 18 pallets in a truckload. All prices may change without prior notice.

Rock Salt Not Available in Bulk in NJ

Due to strict allocations, some types of ice melt will not be sold in the same bulk quantities as normal:

Magnesium Chloride Pellets

Magnesium chloride pellets are extremely popular throughout the northeast. The fast-acting ice melt is capable of releasing heat exothermically as it forms a brine with snow and ice. In this way, the deicer is able to work effectively in temperatures as low as 0 degrees.

The fact that the material is so frequently selected by consumers paired with the harsh conditions of the previous several winters made it so that stores across the nation ran short on their supplies. This shortage has made it difficult for magnesium chloride manufacturers to build up their inventory.

Consequently, they have placed strict allocations on the quantities of magnesium chloride that will be distributed to venders throughout the US. This means that you won’t be able to buy the ice melt by the truck load this 2015-2016 season, and supplies are very limited.

Calculating Your Need for Bulk Rock Salt

Do you actually require a bulk quantity of rock salt, and if so, would you be better off purchasing the materials by the pallet/case or by the truckload? In order to make this determination, you need to have the ability to accurately calculate how many total bags your property will require. The general formula for doing so will demand that you multiply the square footage of your coverage area by 3.1, which is the amount of pounds of rock salt that should typically be applied per square foot.

This will reveal how many pounds of rock salt you need. Next, divide this number by 50 to figure out how many total bags of ice melt you should purchase. By taking a look at how many bags go into a pallet and how many pallets go into a truckload, you can make an informed decision about the best and most cost-effective way to buy.

Properly Storing Bulk Quantities of Rock Salt

After stocking up on bulk rock salt, you need to be able to store it properly or else it won’t do you any good in the long run. One of the key things to remember is that pallets and cases should be stored up off of the ground. This will ensure that, should water leak into your storage area, your supply won’t be damaged by exposure to moisture.

It’s even better to keep pallets covered with a tarp or to store bags in sealed containers. Remember, too, that you should avoid keeping your ice melt in areas where the temperature may drop below freezing, as this can result in clumping.

Where to Buy Bulk Rock Salt in NJ

Braen Supply is the largest supplier of bulk rock salt in NJ and its surrounding areas. We are proud to offer a wide selection of products that can be purchased by the pallet or truckload. We’re happy to work with you to calculate how much rock salt you’ll need to purchase to get through the winter.

You’ll find that our rock salt and ice melt is available at the fairest, most competitive prices around. Customers can pick up their ice melt at one of our convenient NJ locations, or orders can be delivered throughout NJ, NY, PA and CT.