Techo-Bloc Walls in NJ: A Homeowner’s Guide

If you’re like many other NJ residents with a sloped or uneven property, you may have realized that you have a need for a retaining wall.

Not only is a good retaining wall one of the best and most effective means of erosion control and increasing the amount of usable space within your landscape, but it can also dramatically increase property value if the right materials are selected and properly installed.

At Braen Supply, we strongly recommend the usage of Techo-Bloc products for retaining wall construction. With a number of designs to choose from and a host of benefits, Techo-Bloc materials have so much to offer customers like yourself.

Take a look at what sets these wall stones apart from the competition, how to choose and use your materials, and where to buy Techo-Bloc in NJ.

Techo-Bloc Wall Stone Benefits

What’s so great about Techo-Bloc wall stones? Here’s a closer look at some of the material’s many advantages:

Natural Beauty – Techo-Bloc wall stones are designed and crafted to look exactly like the materials you would find in nature. You’ll enjoy the natural coloring and rich texture associated with real stone.
Product Consistency – Because Techo-Bloc products are manufactured by skilled craftsman, you can expect consistency and quality throughout all of your wall stones.
Variety – Techo-Bloc wall stones come in a number of different styles and colors. This makes it easy for users to pick the materials that best suit their existing landscape designs and individual personalities.
Strength and Durability – A retaining wall needs to be able to handle extreme lateral loads without giving way. Techo-Bloc wall stones are designed to handle the pressure. They will also be able to deal with regular use. The material doesn’t easily scratch, scrape or stain.
Weather Resistance – NJ is subject to some pretty extreme weather conditions. The good news is that Techo-Bloc wall stones are specifically manufactured to withstand all that Mother Nature throws their way. The materials can withstand high heat, the freeze-and-thaw cycles associated with winter and spring and the effects of rain and snow.
Warranty – Purchasing Techo-Bloc products is a long-term investment in your property. All Techo-Bloc products will be enjoyed for years to come with its lifetime warranty.

Techo-Bloc Wall Stone Uses

Techo-Bloc wall stones are frequently selected for:

Erosion Control – The primary reason for erecting a Techo-Bloc wall stone has to do with preventing erosion issues. Homes and businesses with steeply graded landscapes may find that soil becomes loosened and washes away after periods of rain. A Techo-Bloc retaining wall will hold the earth in place so that your property doesn’t become damaged as a result. In addition, this will prevent your contribution to storm water runoff.
Raised Patios – If your property is sloped or uneven, you may find it difficult to get as much use out of your outdoor living spaces as you’d like. The construction of a retaining wall can allow you to create level areas of land where you can install a raised patio to enjoy spending time outside with your loved ones.
Raised Gardens – Growing flowers, vegetables and other plants on an incline can be quite a challenge. Just like in the case of a raised patio, a raised garden can be installed by the construction of a Techo-Bloc retaining wall.

Techo-Bloc Wall Stone Maintenance

Techo-Bloc wall stones don’t require a whole lot of maintenance in order to continue looking beautiful and functioning perfectly. We advise users to regularly hose down their walls to remove any dirt, leaves or debris from accumulating in the cracks. Never use acidic or abrasive cleaning products on your Techo-Bloc wall.

Where to Buy Techo-Bloc Wall Stones in NJ

If you believe that Techo-Bloc wall stones are a good fit for your project needs, be sure to reach out to the experts at Braen Supply. We are an authorized Techo-Bloc dealer. As such, we carry a full inventory of Techo-Bloc wall stones and are able to provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date product information.

Our Techo-Bloc products are available at the most competitive prices and can be picked up or bulk delivered to locations throughout NJ, NY, PA and CT.

Photo Courtesty: Techo-Bloc

Bluestone Steps: How To Install Them in Your NJ Home

Bluestone Steps for Sale in NJ Bluestone steps offer one of the best combinations of beauty and affordability on the market.

Bluestone steps are sawn and thermaled for consistency and will generally be a blueish gray tone and can be rockfaced to add a rustic look.

Bluestone steps can significantly increase the value of your NJ home by adding to its curb appeal, which real estate experts identify as one of the most important and influential factors for would-be buyers.

If you’ve got the DIY spirit, installing bluestone steps will not be an enjoyable task.

With light duty equipment and someone with knowledge of installing bluestone steps, you can put in your new steps that will last the test of time.

Installing Bluestone Steps: Materials List

You will need the following tools and materials to complete the installation:

Bluestone steps (6″ thick).
Shovel.
Rubber mallet.
Gravel and sand.
Tape measure.
Light machinery.
Level.

Depending on how you plan to execute the installation, additional tools and materials may be required.

Installing Bluestone Steps: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s how to install your new bluestone steps, step by step:

Establish how many steps you will need for the project by determining the grade change from the top of the finished steps to the bottom.
Divide the total height difference in 6″ increments.
Establish the width of the steps that the area will allow or the desired width. (Keep in mind the wider you go, the heavier the step will be.)
Level the grade for the first step, dig down 4″ and fill and compact with clean gravel.
Ensure that the gravel is level and has a slight pitch from back to front.
Install base step and use a rubber mallet to ensure that step is level and has proper pitch.
Backfill back of step to top of base step.
Install next step with a 2″ overhang on the step prior.
Continue installing steps by following steps listed above until you have installed the total amount of desired steps.
Remember to keep the height of top step below finished grade for the landing.

If you’re unsure of your ability to complete the installation of your bluestone steps on your own, it is a very wise idea to invest in professional help. Remember: exterior elements play a major role in determining the value of your home.

Quality installations, as completed by a professional or an experienced, confident amateur, can add amazing value to your home and generate a positive return on the investment you’ve made in the raw materials.

On the other hand, poor workmanship can have a detrimental effect. Poorly installed steps will diminish your home’s curb appeal, and thus its value.

The bottom line is this: unless you have the utmost confidence in your ability to complete the installation on your own, it’s a good idea to at least consult a professional before continuing.

If you have little to no DIY experience, it’s a better idea to hire a contractor to complete the installation on your behalf. Installing bluestone steps is an intermediate-level project that requires some existing skills and construction experience.

Complete Support and Product Advice from Braen Supply

Braen Supply is a leading supplier of bluestone steps in New Jersey.

Serving New Jersey, Pennsylvania and the greater New York City area, Braen Supply offers an unbeatable combination of quality and competitive prices, backed up by extensive expertise, helpful advice and friendly customer service.

Braen Supply is also pleased to offer excellent volume discounts to contractors making bulk purchases, and features delivery and drop-off services to customers located across its service area.

To learn more about our exciting range of bluestone products, or for any other inquiries, please contact us at Braen Supply.

Gravel Calculator: Free Online Tool

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Using a gravel calculator is an ideal way to accurately plan your inventory needs for larger-scale projects, and to make sure you purchase just the right amount of gravel for one-off jobs.

Understanding how these handy online tools work is essential to harnessing their power to help you save money and maximize your budget.

What Is a Gravel Calculator?

A gravel calculator is an online tool that allows you to enter known information regarding your project, such as the surface area you need to cover and the depth to fill it.

Once you’ve filled in these fields, the calculator will automatically determine the volume of gravel you need to buy to complete your project.

Online gravel calculators are widely available for instant use, free of cost or obligation.

Benefits of Using a Gravel Calculator

The primary benefit of using a gravel calculator is that it allows you to plan your inventory needs quickly and accurately. You’ll be able to proceed with your job secure that you have enough gravel on hand to finish it, and without worrying that you’ve purchased too much.

To that end, a gravel calculator can also help you save money. You’ll avoid overstocking your supply, leaving you with excess gravel that you have no immediate purpose for.

Similarly, you won’t have to scramble to buy more gravel at the last minute, which could come at a premium if you’re forced to use a different supplier than you’re used to, or if you have to pay extra for rush delivery.

Finally, gravel calculators are convenient. Because you won’t have a lot of leftover supply, you won’t have to worry about finding a place to store a large volume of excess material.

They also help construction projects proceed on schedule, which can be a boon to contractors looking to enhance their reputations for getting jobs done in a timely manner.

How Do I Use a Gravel Calculator?

It’s easy to use gravel calculators. Begin by determining the length and width of the area to be covered, and the depth to which you need to fill it.

Pay close attention to units of measurement; most gravel calculators are calibrated to calculate length and width in feet and depth in inches, but this may vary. If necessary, use an online measurement conversion tool.

Once you’ve filled in the required fields, simply click the “calculate” button (or its equivalent) to generate your answer.

From there, you can contact local gravel suppliers to see which of them offers the best price and service terms for the amount of product you need.

What Will a Gravel Calculator Tell Me?

Gravel calculators are designed to tell you how much gravel you will need to complete a project, not how much that gravel will cost.

You’ll have to determine costs on your own by shopping around with various suppliers until you find the right product at the right price.

Note that not all gravel calculators are designed to help you figure out how much gravel you need to fill in oddly shaped areas, or projects being undertaken in complex or nontraditional locations.

For example, if depth measurements vary, or if the surface can’t be measured in linear terms (because it is circular, ovular or irregularly shaped), you may not be able to calculate your material needs with a simple gravel calculator.

In such cases, don’t hesitate to draw on the help of an expert. Find a reputable local gravel supply company and give them a call to discuss your needs in detail.

If they’re worthy of your business, they’ll be more than happy to take the time to talk through your project-specific needs in detail.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][templatera id=”7545″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Gravel Calculator: How To Use One For Your Project

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Using a gravel calculator is an excellent way to make the most of your project budget and ensure it proceeds on time and without undue delays or inconveniences.

Gravel calculators are simple online tools that allow you to figure out how much gravel you need to purchase to fill in a given area to the required depth.

How a Gravel Calculator Works

To use gravel calculators, begin by measuring the length and width of the surface area you want to cover with gravel, then determine the depth to which you want to fill that area.

Armed with these metrics, you will be able to fill in the calculator’s fields to generate quick, answers that tell you roughly how much gravel you will need to purchase to complete your project.

Note that most online gravel calculators are designed to calculate volume needs for projects with linear dimensions. In other words, they may not support ovular, circular or irregular shapes.

If your project involves an area with an unusual shape that can be broken down into constituent squares or rectangles, calculate each segment separately, then add up the individual volume totals to arrive at a final measurement.

Benefits of Using a Gravel Calculator

Gravel calculators offer users many important benefits, including:

Cost control. Gravel calculators ensure you purchase just the right amount of material, instead of too much or too little. Buying too much gravel is tantamount to wasting money, while buying too little can leave you scrambling to finish a project and may force you to pay more than you need to in order to make up the shortfall.
Planning accuracy. Accurate planning helps you keep projects on schedule, which can enhance your reputation if you’re a contractor. Time is always at a premium whenever you’re working on a construction or landscaping project, and gravel calculators help you make the most of the time you have available by striking one more worry off your list.
Convenience. Gravel calculators are more than just helpful planning tools; they are also highly convenient, both during your project and in the immediate aftermath of its completion. By accurately predicting how much gravel you’ll need for your project, you’ll liberate yourself from having to deal with excess supply after the fact.

Tips for Using a Gravel Calculator

Here are some helpful tips to help you get the most out of online gravel calculators:

Pay close attention to unit measurements. With most calculators, the default calibrations are in feet for length and width measurements, and in inches for depth measurements. Yours may vary, so be sure to convert these prior to filling in the required fields.
Be mindful of calculator limitations if your project is located in an unusual area, such as a sloped landscape which will be filled to varying depths. Such shapes can be tricky to plan for using default calculating devices.
Don’t hesitate to lean on an expert for help if you’re having trouble generating accurate calculations, or if your project parameters make it difficult for you to arrive at accurate results using default tools.

What to Look For in a Gravel Calculator

Beyond flexible, comprehensive fields that generate accurate results, you should look for gravel calculators that are not on websites filled with unnecessary ads or pop-ups.

You should also avoid gravel calculators that require you to enter personal information, such as your name or email address, before you are permitted to access the calculator’s features.

To that end, it’s best to use gravel calculators which are hosted on the websites of reputable gravel suppliers.

This way, you can be sure the site isn’t looking to lure you in so it can tack cookies or tracking software onto your computer; instead, you’re dealing with a company looking to add value to your online experience, and that’s a hallmark of a gravel supplier you’ll want to have on your side.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][templatera id=”7545″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Buy Pea Gravel in NJ for Driveways, Walkways & Paths

Pea gravel is among the most versatile and easily maintained exterior decoration and landscaping materials on the market.

It has a wide range of applications, but is most often used to top residential driveways, walkways and paths.

Compared to alternatives, pea gravel offers a long list of benefits in each of these three areas.

Benefits of Gravel Driveways

Compared to interlocking bricks, concrete and asphalt, pea gravel offers superior performance for a lower price.

While interlocking bricks are beautiful and durable, they cost more to install.

In contrast, pea gravel is easy to install and requires very little maintenance apart from occasionally smoothing out the driveway surface and topping up the gravel supply.

Building a gravel driveway is a straightforward DIY project that doesn’t require much experience or know-how, and its versatility makes it ideal for driveways of all shapes and sizes.

Benefits of Gravel Walkways

When it comes to walkways, the benefits of gravel once again shine through. As with driveways, pea gravel walkways are very easy to design and install, and it’s a project that most people can handle without the need to hire a contractor or landscaping professional.

Gravel walkways are also an attractive feature, adding to your home’s curb appeal while reducing maintenance needs. Maintaining a gravel walkway is very easy, requiring little if any effort once installation is complete.

Because walkways don’t have to deal with the same volume of heavy traffic as your driveway does, you have more room to get creative. Decorative gravel products can enhance appearance and can be used to create a striking complement to your home’s beauty.

Best of all, these benefits are available for very low costs, delivering a return on investment in the form of an increased home resale value.

Benefits of Gravel Paths

Adding a path to your garden or landscape is an ideal way to help keep foot traffic off your lawn while enhancing its overall visual appeal. Building a pea gravel garden path is very easy; simply plot out its shape, dig up the path, add landscaping fabric to prevent weeds from growing, install bordering elements and top the path with gravel.

Once you’ve completed the job, you’ll have very little to worry about in terms of maintenance.

As with gravel walkways, pea gravel paths can make creative use of decorative product variations that raise your garden’s esthetic effect.

These benefits combine to make gravel one of the most popular choices on the market for people seeking to add a path to their backyard landscape.

Why You Should Buy Gravel Directly from a Direct Supplier

There are many third-party suppliers of pea gravel out there, many of which claim to offer the best prices on the market. The problem is that those suppliers don’t have the specialized knowledge and expertise to guide you to the best possible product for your intended application, or to walk you through the relative benefits of the many varieties of gravel which are available.

When you source your pea gravel directly from a direct supplier, you can be sure that you’ll have access to the kind of specialized expertise you need to make the right decision.

Braen Supply is a leading supplier of gravel, offering premium-quality products at highly competitive prices along with value-added service and affordable, flexible delivery options.

Braen Supply proudly serves customers throughout New Jersey, New York State, Pennsylvania and the New York City area.

Homeowner’s Guide to Pea Gravel Costs in NJ

Pea gravel is a very popular material, with a wide range of uses in both residential and commercial landscaping.

However, as you shop around, you’ll notice that pea gravel costs can vary considerably from one supplier to another, and you may be wondering about the factors that affect its price. The short answer is that quality, quantity and the nature of the supplier are the three main factors that drive pea gravel costs.

Consumers should make careful evaluations of each of these factors to choose the supplier that will best meet their needs for a price they can afford.

Pea Gravel Uses

First, it’s important to decide what type of pea gravel you want to use. To do that, you need to consider its application, and understand that different uses demand different varieties of pea gravel, some of which will cost more than others.

Value-grade pea gravel is best used for applications including:

An alternative to mulch: pea gravel can be used in place of mulch in gardens and around landscape features.
Patios: pea gravel can also be used to surface backyard patios.
Aquariums and water features: you can also use pea gravel to form a base layer in aquariums and around home water features like outdoor fountains or pool decks.

Higher-quality pea gravel is recommended for:

Driveways and walkways: because it can add a great deal of aesthetic value to your home, experts recommend using higher-quality pea gravel to finish driveways and walkways that are visible from the street outside of your home.

Factors Affecting Pea Gravel Costs

With your end application in mind, you can proceed to evaluate the pea gravel suppliers in your area by considering the three important factors mentioned above:

Quality: Rocks are rocks, right? Well, not quite. Value-grade pea gravel is made up of untreated stone, and is recommended for applications where practicality of more important than aesthetics. Higher-grade pea gravel, which may be dyed or colored, is also made from raw materials of superior quality, and as such, it will come at a slight premium.
Quantity: The more pea gravel you buy, the lower your per-unit cost will be. This is why it’s so important to accurately estimate the amount of pea gravel you’ll need. To calculate it, measure the surface area of the space you wish to cover, taking the desired depth of pea gravel into account. Be sure to leave a little extra so you can top up each spot as needed.
The nature of the supplier: Companies that manufacture their own pea gravel are able to offer the end product to consumers at reduced costs, since they eliminate markups and middle men. As an added benefit, you can be sure that such suppliers will offer more expertise and be able to answer any questions you might have about the characteristics of the pea gravel and its suitability for particular applications.

How to Choose the Right Pea Gravel Supplier

Finding the right supplier means finding the best value, and value comes from a good balance of convenience, customer service, expertise and pea gravel costs. You won’t be in a good position if you buy from a bargain-basement supplier, only to find that they don’t offer bulk delivery or offer inferior products that don’t meet your expectations.

As mentioned, companies that make their own pea gravel are inherently in a better position to offer advice, and good advice can save you a great deal of money in the long run by adding value to your purchase.

If you’re buying in bulk and you require delivery, you should also determine whether or not the supplier offers this service, and if so, at what price. Be sure to ask about terms and conditions, including factors like delivery times, delivery areas and whether or not the supplier is willing to drop off the product at varying locations, if you require that type of service.

Finally, factor pea gravel costs into the equation. Is the supplier offering expertise, convenience, delivery service and a quality product at an affordable price? If so, congratulations – you’ve found a great pea gravel supplier!

Pea Gravel Walkways: How to Create the Perfect One

Building a pea gravel walkway is an excellent alternative to having a paved sidewalk leading to your front door.

Pea gravel is much more affordable, much easier to maintain and adds a great deal of curb appeal to your home.

That, in turn, can send its resale value in the right direction, all for an affordable investment that doesn’t take a great deal of expertise or know-how to implement.

Pea gravel walkways are also excellent in backyards, allowing you and your family to enjoy your outdoor scenery without trampling your grass.

Building a Pea Gravel Walkway: Determining Shape

During the planning phase, your first step will be to determine the shape and width of your pea gravel walkway. It goes without saying that the simplest types of walkways are straight.

However, in backyards and gardens, you may want to build winding walkways that lead visitors to the various elements you want to highlight in your yard. This is slightly more elaborate, but really only demands that you bridge twists and turns in the walkways with easy-to-plan and easy-to-built straight sections.

Experts recommend making your pea gravel walkway wide enough for two people to walk side-by-side without being too close to the edge. As a general guideline, a width of three feet should suffice in most cases.

Building a Pea Gravel Walkway: Lay the Foundation and Edging Material

The key foundational element of a pea gravel walkway is a compact base. Given the local climate here in New Jersey, your soil should be firm enough to provide this base on its own.

However, if you’d prefer something firmer than Mother Nature offers, you can use tamped-down packed stone to create a base about two and a half inches deep. Over time, that amount of tamped-down stone will naturally settle to a depth of about two inches.

Begin by using line-marking paint to plot the shape of the path, then dig down to a depth of about four to four-and-a-half inches if you’re using tamped-down packed stone, or two to two-and-a-half inches if the soil is a suitable base. Then, place a layer of landscape fabric over the foundation; this will stop weeds from growing up through the walkway.

Next, you will add vertically oriented edging to the sides of the path to keep the pea gravel properly contained.

Most pea gravel walkway edges are made from narrow lengths of galvanized steel, which are available at home improvement retailers. Alternately, you can use plastic, cobblestones, pressure-treated wood or bricks, depending on your budget and the look you’re going for.

Remember to account for the width of the edging when you’re planning the overall width of the path. Once you’ve gotten this far, you’re ready to add your pea gravel!

Building a Pea Gravel Walkway: Choose Your Pea Gravel

Reputable suppliers offer homeowners a varied range of pea gravel options. The most basic type of pea gravel is made from untreated stones which offer a simple, natural look.

This will be your least expensive option, though you might want to consider others if you’re looking for certain colors or visual characteristics.

You can also get pea gravel that is treated with dyes or coloring agents, creating a vast array of enticing options.

Some types of pea gravel are also finished with residues that alter their appearance in certain types of light, so if you want a dazzling daytime look or a type of pea gravel that shimmers as the sun goes down, find a supplier that offers a varied range of products and can help you choose the one that best meets your vision.

Building a Pea Gravel Walkway: Installing the Gravel

If you installed your foundation and edging correctly, placing the pea gravel should be a straightforward task. Simply deposit the pea gravel into the walkway bit by bit, then smooth it over with a rake to create a level surface.

When you’re pouring the pea gravel, stop when you’re about half an inch from the top of the edging. This will prevent it from spilling over.

Instead of pouring pea gravel straight from the container, you can fill a wheelbarrow and shovel it into place before smoothing it over with the rake. Continue until your new walkway is complete and enjoy!

Building a Pea Gravel Walkway: Maintenance

Easy maintenance is one of the biggest advantages of a pea gravel walkway. Simply inspect the surface and the edging seasonally to make sure everything is holding up.

If any edges are damaged or frayed, replace them promptly. Otherwise, chances are you’ll need to do no more than make spot additions of replacement pea gravel to keep the surface smooth and even.

When looking for a pea gravel supplier in NJ, look no further than Braen Supply. With 110 years of experience in the stone industry, we can solve to any project you have in mind.

We sell pea gravel in bulk for wholesale prices and will deliver in NJ, NYC, NY and PA. Reach out to one of our experts at Braen Supply with all of your pea gravel walkway questions.

Pea Gravel Patio: Depths, Installation & Maintenance

Building a pea gravel patio is an excellent low-cost alternative to elaborate, high-maintenance wooden decks and expensive stone or interlocking brick.

Best of all, simple pea gravel patios are a DIY project that don’t require a great deal of experience or know-how. All they take is a little careful planning and some elbow grease.

To get started, plan the shape and depth of your patio, then plot it out in your yard and create the foundational base. From there, all you’ll need to do is fill it in with pea gravel and enjoy. With a little regular maintenance, your pea gravel patio will give you a lifetime of enjoyment.

Pea Gravel Patio Depth

Similar to pea gravel walkways, most pea gravel patios are constructed to offer a depth of about two inches, though you may need to dig deeper if the underlying soil isn’t firm enough to provide an effective foundation.

Thus, your first step should be to determine whether or not you’ll need to add a base layer.

If the underlying soil is densely packed with a clay-like consistency, it will perform well as a base without any additional material. Most soil in New Jersey is like this, but you should always make sure before proceeding with your plan.

If it’s sandy or loose in consistency, you should add a layer of tamped-down packed stone above the soil. Here are your depth guidelines:

Dig to an overall depth of about 2.5 inches if the soil will serve as the base.
Dig to an overall depth of 4 to 4.5 inches if you’re going to use tamped-down packed stone as a base.

Plot the shape of your patio using spray paint, then dig to the required depth using the aforementioned criteria. The shape of your patio won’t affect your depth, as depth is dependent solely on whether or not you’re using a soil or tamped-down packed stone base.

Pea Gravel Patio Installation

Once you’ve dug out the patio outline to the required depth, your next step will be to add edging around the perimeter. The most popular edging materials include:

Galvanized steel.
Plastic.
Cobblestone.
Bricks.
Pressure-treated wood.
Cedar.

These edging materials will be readily available through local home improvement retailers.

Before you lay the pea gravel, you will need to cover the surface of the patio with landscape fabric. You can lay this fabric directly over the soil if you’re using soil as the foundational base, or on top of the tamped-down packed stone, which you should fill to a depth of about 2.5 inches before adding the fabric.

When you’re ready, simply add about 2 inches of pea gravel to the patio, leaving about half an inch of room between the top of the gravel and the top of your edging material. This will prevent spillovers. Then, simply level out the surface of the patio using a rake, and you’re done!

If you’ve chosen an elaborate patio design and you’re not confident in your ability to execute, it may be helpful to hire a landscaping expert or contractor to help you realize your vision. It will be worth the extra investment to ensure the job gets done right the first time.

Pea Gravel Patio Maintenance

One of the very best things about a pea gravel patio is that it won’t require a great deal of maintenance. Pea gravel is extremely robust, and the only real risk to its continued performance is that loosely packed stones can become dislodged over time.

If this happens, simply smooth out affected areas with a rake, adding more pea gravel if necessary. Beyond that, your pea gravel patio should maintain itself!

Choosing a Pea Gravel Supplier

When considering the various pea gravel suppliers, it’s a good idea to stick with a company that quarries its own gravel. This has several advantages; first, you’ll get a higher-quality product at a lower price, since you’ll be buying directly from the manufacturer.

Second, when you choose a company with hands-on experience and expertise, you’ll benefit from professional advice on which type of pea gravel is best for your intended application.

Building a pea gravel patio can add a great deal of value to your home and give you and your family a beautiful outdoor oasis to enjoy for years to come. Get the most out of your investment by choosing a reputable pea gravel supplier that quarries locally and can answer any and all questions you might have about its products and services.

Techo-Bloc in NJ: Homeowner’s Buying Guide

Techo-Bloc for Sale in NJ Anyone who has given any thought to sprucing up their property’s hardscape has heard of Techo-Bloc. This incredible company, which has grown and flourished throughout the past 24 years has mastered the fine art of crafting amazing concrete pavers to be used as functional and beautiful features for any landscape.

New Jersey homeowners (and homeowners throughout the northeastern United States) love Techo-Bloc concrete pavers because, while modern and chic, they also emulate a sense of old world European architecture. This is perfect for the most posh manner to even a quaint, storybook cottage.

The pavers are versatile, attractive, and due to the fact that they are so long-lasting and durable, they offer an incredible sense of value to the home – both for now and for the future. But are Techo-Bloc pavers the right choice for your NJ property? Our team of experts explore everything you need to know.

What Makes Techo-Bloc Unique?

There are several different things that set Techo-Bloc products apart from others:

Look – Compared to other landscaping pavers, Techo-Bloc has a very natural appearance. There is a reason behind this: the company utilizes only the highest quality materials in order to create their products. As a result, you can boast a natural-looking landscape to your guests at a fraction of the cost. The pavers come in various sizes and shapes so that you can create the features that you desire. And no matter what the weather holds, Techo-Bloc will continue to main its beautiful look. The material is quite impervious against the elements and will hold it its original coloration and texture.
Versatility – Techo-Bloc can be used for a number of different purposes. Those who are looking to welcome guests into their home with a bit of flair will love using these pavers as a driveway or front walkway, whereas those that spend a lot of time entertaining outdoors may enjoy the material for their patio.
Durability – Techo-Bloc products are designed to withstand all. The materials used to manufacture these pavers make it possible for the product to endure even the harshest of conditions. This is ideal for all of us here in the northeast. We tend to experience very hot and humid summers, but the stones will still remain quite cool to the touch, even when exposed to sunlight. At the same time, Techo-Bloc is able to resist the impact of frigid cold winters, as it does not contract and will not separate from its original shape.
Maintenance – People love choosing and using Techo-Bloc products for their properties because they require minimal maintenance to keep them looking great.

The Most Common Uses of Techo-Bloc

Property owners love using Techo-Bloc pavers for a number of different projects including:

Driveways – Techo-Bloc driveways allow for a variety of possibilities. Consider the fact that when your guests arrive at your NJ home, the first thing that they will notice is your front drive. A Techo-Bloc driveway can create a truly dramatic impression. They are so versatile that they can create an “old style” or “modern” look for your home. You will also have the freedom to have the pavers laid down in a pattern of your choosing. Whether your prefer total symmetry, diagonal pattering, or obscure shaping you will be able to have your desires met with these pavers.
Walkways – A front walkway (or even a walkway from your backdoor to your garden) can be just as important as your front driveway. Walkways are intended to be inviting and welcoming your guests. The coloration of Techo-Bloc in and of itself completes this task, as it works well within any landscape or home type. At the same time, you will have the freedom to create winding paths or straight lanes for your guests. These paths will last for a years to come and improve the worth of your home.
Patios – Your home’s patio is the heart of your property. This is the place where family members and friends gather to socialize and create memories. Techo-Bloc pavers are absolutely perfect for creating this surface because they are able to invoke memories of days gone by while still maintaining a fresh and modern feel. No matter who you invite to your next party or gathering, everyone will feel comfortable and pleased with your patio’s floor.
Pool Patios – Techo-Bloc pavers are one of the best materials that you could choose for the patio surrounding your swimming pool. Not only are these pavers extremely attractive but they are also very good at resisting the impact of the sun.

The Reasons NJ Homeowners Love Techo-Bloc

One of the best things about Techo-Bloc products is that they don’t require a ton of maintenance. Some things to keep in mind include:

Sealing – It is advisable for any homeowner to have their pavers (of any material) sealed. When pavers are sealed they are much more likely to retain their beauty and resist the effects of nature longer. This will make your investment much more worthwhile and will allow you to enjoy the project well into the future.
Weather – One great thing about Techo-Bloc pavers is that they are designed to withstand very cold conditions. This is especially important for NJ and NY homeowners – as well as those in similar locales. Even so, the smartest thing you can do is to find the right ice melting product for the paving stones. Although these stones can deal with frigid temperatures, you should select an ice melter that is able to deal with the harshest of conditions. This will ensure that your Techo-Bloc products last well into the future.

The Best Prices on Techo-Bloc in NJ

Braen Supply immediately comes to mind when you think about Techo-Bloc products in NJ. Our team is comprised of industry experts who are happy to and more than capable of addressing any questions or concerns that you may have.

We can advise you on the best materials to use for your landscaping project, allowing you to feel comfortable and confident with your upcoming project. We take pride in offering a wide variety of Techo-Bloc products at the most competitive rates throughout NJ & NY.

Our materials are available for pickup at your leisure, or they can be bulk delivered to your location. Despite the fact that our primary delivery areas include Bergen County, Morris County, Passaic County, Essex County, Sussex County and Rockland County, we are happy to work with project sites throughout all of NJ, NY, NYC, CT and PA.

This photo is courtesy of Techo-Bloc and their BLU 60mm Collection.

Pea Gravel Walkways: Depths, Installation & Maintenance

Pea gravel walkways: depths, installation and maintenance Throughout the years, pea gravel has earned its place as one of the most sought-after landscaping materials on the market.

On top of being very accessible and affordable, these multi-colored stones are extremely versatile and can serve a number of decorative and practical functions throughout your property.

Because of their beauty, size and texture, it has become very popular to use pea gravel in the installation of paths and walkways.

The goal of this guide is to provide you with all of the knowledge and insight required to construct and maintain stunning and long-lasting pea gravel walkways throughout your landscape.

Pea Gravel Walkways

Pea gravel walkways create a defined path for people to walk on. This discourages them from taking “shortcuts” by traveling across your carefully manicured lawn or flower beds.

Your front lawn isn’t the only area where a pea gravel walkway can make a difference. You might construct a path leading from your patio to your swimming pool, or a path to wind around your flower and vegetable gardens. This creates a peaceful and tranquil esthetic.

Regardless of where you plan on constructing your walkway, pea gravel is an ideal choice. The small, pea-sized stones are small, smooth and round which makes them comfortable to walk upon. The varied coloration of the rocks also makes it easy for you to tie together the various aspects of your landscape to make it as cohesive and esthetically pleasing as possible.

Installation & Maintenance Tips for Pea Gravel Walkways

Take Careful Measurements

The key to properly determining how much material you’ll need for your walkway is in precisely outlining and measuring the desired coverage area. For straight paths, you should multiply the length by the width by the depth of the walkway.

For winding walkways, you may need to consult with an expert for accuracy. When calculating your final numbers we recommend padding your total by 10%. This will ensure that you will not end up short on material. You will save yourself time and headaches during your project and if you have any material left over you can easily spread it out over your walkway.

Depth Guidelines

As a general rule of thumb, pea gravel walkways should have a minimum depth of at least 2″ for comfort and sufficient coverage. Keep in mind that you’ll also need to plan on an additional 1″ layer of a base material beneath the pea gravel.

Pea Gravel Walkway Installation Steps

After excavating the area where the walkway is to be installed, you’ll need to make sure that the base of the path is level, free of roots and weeds and is completely compacted. To prevent the growth of future weeds, a layer of landscaping fabric should be applied to the bottom and sides of the walkway.

Next, the base material should be applied. Typically, sand or crushed gravel with fines will do nicely. This layer will help to stabilize the pea gravel, enabling to to support the weight of foot traffic.

Finally, you’re ready to spread the 2″ layer of pea gravel on top. In order to keep stones in place, it’s smart to edge the walkway with bricks, heavy river rocks or other decorative materials. To add even more texture and interest to your path, you may decide to space paving stones throughout the walkway to serve as stepping stones.

Pea Gravel Walkway Maintenance

Pea gravel walkways are relatively low maintenance. To preserve the path’s beauty, simply rake over the stones regularly to keep the surface even and level. A leaf blower can be used to remove debris, as the stones are heavy enough that they won’t blow away. You may also want to rerake and level the stones that are on the walkway every 2-3 years.

Do you have more questions about pea gravel walkways? Speak with a local pea gravel supplier like Braen Supply.

We’ve been assisting homeowners and contractors with projects for more than 100 years. We’d be happy to discuss your project and make recommendations based on your needs.

This photo is an original and is used via creative commons from Richard J. Hughes.