Full Guide for Using Stone on Homes: How to & Style Options

As a homeowner, you want your property to stand out – in a good way. Instead of being just another cookie-cutter house, you want yours to exemplify your unique personality and sense of style.

One fantastic way of achieving these objectives is to work with stone. Stone has long been revered for its elegance and sophistication. Unfortunately, however, building with stone can be expensive and impractical.

The good news is that there are still plenty of ways to incorporate stone onto your home and around your property. Here’s a quick guide to enhancing your house with stone.

Why Stone?

For starters, let’s consider the many reasons why you should give serious consideration to introducing stone to your home. The first and most obvious reason is that stone is absolutely beautiful.

There’s no doubt about the fact that stone – regardless of the type you choose – will significantly increase the aesthetic value of your home, thus increasing overall property value.

In addition to looking fabulous, stone is also a timeless material that will continue to remain in fashion in the many years ahead. On top of everything else, stone is extremely versatile.

Whether you’re trying to make a bold statement with a modern edge or are simply in hopes of establishing a simple and traditional look for your home, you’ll find that it’s more than doable.

Of course, stone is also weather-resistant – a must here in the northeast where we are frequently subject to extreme temperature fluctuations and weather pattern. The end result is a luxurious-looking exterior for your home that will last a lifetime and beyond.

Full Stone Veneers

The process of completely constructing a home with natural stone can be quite expensive. Making the decision to enhance the appearance of your home with a full stone veneer is a much more cost-efficient means of giving your house the facelift it deserves.

Full stone veneers can be produced from an array of different types of natural stone in a range of lovely colors and shapes. Veneers can be applied to most surfaces.

Depending on the look you’re trying to create, you might decide to use stone veneers on your home’s entire exterior, or you might choose to highlight certain areas of the house with the stone.

As an example, some homeowners will use stone veneers only along exterior foundation walls, around windows and doors, or on one side of the home. Working with a design software or speaking with an expert can help you to make the best decision for your property.

Thin Stone Veneers

Because full stone veneers tend to be heavier, they may not always be the most practical or budget-friendly option for your project. This is especially true of projects where the stone needs to be situated in smaller spaces.

Fortunately, thin stone veneers are available and offer the same beauty and structural integrity as full stone veneers. The thin stone is also very easy to work with and makes for a quick installation.

Thin stone veneers can be applied anywhere that a full stone veneer would be used, as well as in more restricted areas that would not be suitable for a full stone veneer.

Other Ways to Use Stone

Of course, there are other ways in which you can make use of stone in the design of your home and your property beyond simply using the material as a decorative siding or facing. In fact, there are many features that can benefit from a stone facelift.

You might consider working with stone to build a new chimney (or use a veneer to transform an existing chimney). Natural stone is also great for pillars, columns, and mailboxes, amongst other things.

Stone can also be used in the property as a decorative feature. Whether you like the bold statement that boulders can make or prefer to use stone as a surface for driveways, paths, and patios, you’ll find that natural stone will significantly – and instantly – add to the curb appeal and value of your property.

Adding Stone to Your NJ Home

If you believe that stone is the right fit for your NJ home, Braen Supply is here to help make your dreams come true. Braen Supply is recognized for being a leading stone manufacturer and supplier in NJ and throughout the northeast.

We offer a massive inventory of high-quality stone and stone veneers. We are always ready and able to with you in order to ensure that you find the perfect materials for your property and to answer any questions you may have about selection, design, installation and maintenance.

Our stone is available at the most competitive wholesale rates and can be picked up at your convenience or bulk delivered to areas throughout parts of NJ and NY and throughout limited parts of CT and PA. Give us a call or visit our location to learn more today.

How to Level a Gravel Driveway: Everything You Need to Know

Gravel is the perfect solution for any homeowner that is looking for a beautiful, unique and affordable means of constructing a driveway. Many homeowners miss out on the opportunity to work with this versatile material, though, because they mistakenly believe that gravel driveways require too much maintenance.

In reality, taking the proper steps necessary to level a gravel driveway – both at the time of construction and throughout the driveway’s lifetime – will make caring for a gravel driveway very easy and will give you the highest return on your initial investment. To help you out, our experts have offered up some gravel driveway suggestions on how to level driveway.

Leveling a Gravel Driveway During Construction

When building a new gravel driveway, it’s imperative that you take the time to ensure that your driveway is leveled properly. Leveling a driveway during this phase of development involves several steps and processes:

Excavation – Before you can begin introducing crushed stone and gravel to your driveway, you need to properly excavate the area. In order to be successful, you need to dig to the depths recommended by experts and completely clear the space of any obstructions or debris that could create problems for you in the future.

This means that you will need to dig out and physically remove any large boulders or stones, root systems, sticks or other fragments that may present themselves. Leaving items like these at the base of your gravel driveway will prevent the drive from being leveled properly and can create further issues with shifting and settling in the years ahead.

Landscaping Fabric – No matter how well you clear away debris from the base of your new gravel driveway, you will still encounter problems if you don’t take measures to prevent weeds and other vegetation from growing underneath the stone and gravel.

The simplest and most effective solution to this potential dilemma is to lay down a layer of landscaping fabric between the earth and the crushed stone base layer.

Grading – You don’t want your gravel driveway’s base to be completely flat, as this can eventually lead to problems with pooling water and flooding. When constructing your gravel driveway, you need to grade it so that the driveway slopes slightly away from your home and/or garage. This will prevent water from accumulating near your home and causing damages.

Compaction – After each layer of gravel has been poured into the driveway, you’ll need to use a tamping tool, a roller or some other type of tool to compact the stone thoroughly. This step is essential because it ensures that the layers will remain in place as you intended and will minimize the effect of settling and shifting over time, meaning less driveway maintenance work for you over time.

Raking – After everything else has been completed, you should go over the surface of your driveway and rake the gravel to a slight peak down the center line. This final phase of leveling will help to ensure that the surface has equal gravel coverage while also creating a path for water to follow in the event of rain.

In this way, water will flow away from your driveway instead of accumulating there, thus reducing the chance of stone displacement and leveling issues.

Leveling a Gravel Driveway Throughout the Years

As the owner of a gravel driveway, you’ll likely notice that, throughout years of regular usage, your gravel surface may become somewhat bumpy or uneven. This can happen for a number of reasons.

First, small bits of gravel can be scattered and displaced when vehicles drive across the surface. Secondly, the weight of vehicles and the force of gravity may cause some gravel to sink or settle, resulting in recessed areas of the driveway.

Crushed stone may also be displaced due to equipment used for wintertime maintenance. Finally, some gravel can be washed away and moved after periods of heavy rain or exposure to large volumes of water.

Although all of these causes are relatively unavoidable, they don’t have to create major headaches in your life. The process of leveling an uneven gravel driveway is simpler than you might imagine and can quickly restore your driveway to its former glory, both in terms of appearance and functionality.

The end result is a significant extension to your driveway’s lifespan without breaking the bank.

Initially, you may be tempted to simply rake gravel from one area of your driveway into another in order to fill in low spots. This will only create bigger troubles for you in the end, though, as it will simply create more weak spots throughout the driveway as a whole.

A better course of action is to “chop up” and intermix all of the driveway’s existing stones by making use of a box blade and tractor or a 3-point angle blade, re-compact or tamp it down and then apply a fresh 3” layer of gravel to the top of the driveway.

This process helps to bring all of the driveway’s gravel down to the level of the lowest recessions, ensuring that all low spots and voids are properly filled in. The fresh layer of gravel adds structural integrity to the surface of the drive.

If you’re not someone who likes to wait until the first signs of a problem to take action, you don’t necessarily have to bide your time until settling and shifting occurs. The process of leveling your gravel driveway with a box blade or other tool can be completed on an annual or bi-annual basis as a means of preventing issues from arising before they have the opportunity to do so.

Regardless of how frequently you choose to re-level and compact your gravel drive, it’s important to regularly rake over the surface of the gravel in order to remove debris and obstructions and to maintain a slight peak that runs down the center of the drive.

Constructing and Leveling a Gravel Driveway in NJ

When you’re ready to start constructing and/or leveling your gravel driveway, Braen Supply is here to help you through the process. As the leading landscaping supplier in NJ, we’re proud to offer a wide range of stone, masonry and landscaping supplies that will transform the look and vibe of your outdoor living space.

We are knowledgeable about the gravel we sell and can provide you with insider tips on how best to level out and compact your driveway with ease. We’re happy to answer any gravel driveway questions you may have about the process and can even point you in the right direction of a professional contractor who can handle the work on your behalf.

Feel free to visit us at one of our convenient NJ locations to talk about your upcoming project or give us a call to learn more about having gravel bulk delivered to your location today. Our crushed stone can be picked up at our location or bulk delivered throughout parts of NJ & NY and limited parts of PA & CT.

5 Techo-Bloc Pavers for Landscaping Around a Deck or Patio

You absolutely love the look of your home’s backyard patio or deck, but something is still missing. You can’t quite put your finger on it, but you feel like your property lacks that “je ne sais quoi” that would really take it to the next level.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many NJ homeowners have a strong desire to incorporate some new landscaping or hardscaping element into the design surrounding their patios and decks in order to add a higher degree of sophistication and visual appeal to their properties.

The only questions is, how to do it? As experts on this subject, we suggest working with Techo-Bloc Pavers. Anyone familiar with the world of landscaping and hardscaping is familiar with Techo-Bloc.

The industry-leading company has worked for years to design and craft incredibly naturalistic and beautiful concrete products that can be used for a wide range of landscaping and hardscaping purposes – all at prices that the average homeowner can easily afford.

Techo-Bloc pavers are among the most popular products offered by the company and they come in a wide range of different styles, shapes, colors, textures and patterns.

This makes it very easy to find the perfect type of paver to use around your existing deck or patio – regardless of your home’s current landscaping theme or the materials being used throughout your property at present.

Although the sky is truly the limit in terms of selecting the right Techo-Bloc pavers for your patio, we have put together a list of five of our favorite materials for this purpose in order to provide you with a little bit of creative inspiration.

5 Great Techo-Bloc Pavers for Landscaping Around Decks and Patios

1. Valet

Let’s begin with something truly exciting: one of Techo-Bloc’s newest available landscaping materials. The Valet collection of pavers by Techo-Bloc is specifically designed to add character, luxury and a touch of intrigue to other landscaping and hardscaping features.

The perfectly square pavers are extremely rich in texturing, taking their lead from the natural look of lava rock and basalt. The pavers are available in multiple different colors, ranging from shades of charcoal and gray to brown and beige.

Many homeowners choose to alternate colors in order to create more of a checkerboard feel to the design and layout of the materials. We love the look of Valet pavers around existing decks and patios because they bring something extra and something very special to any outdoor living space.

Whether a single row or a band of multiple rows of the pavers are used to surround the area, you’ll find that it really highlights your current landscaping materials and makes your property look much more valuable.

2. Antika

NJ homeowners agree that Antika pavers by Techo-Bloc offer a unique flair that you can’t get from other paving and landscaping materials. Antika pavers are designed with original and unique styling in mind and their free-flowing flavor appeals to people from all walks of life.

The irregularly shaped and semi-rounded pavers create a somewhat cobblestoned effect while still maintaining a modern appeal and vibe. If your existing paved patio, pool deck, or other type of deck features large blocks or slabs in square or rectangular shapes, we suggest that you consider landscaping around the idea with the small, irregular, smooth shapes offered from the Antika collection.

The sharp contrast between these two styles is very visually stimulating, but the fact that the Antika collection is so soft and subtle will make the transition easy to digest and ensure that it is very aesthetically pleasing.

3. Allegro

The Allegro collection by Techo-Bloc is one of the brand’s simplest designs, but it still offers a great deal of elegance and sophistication. We like the idea of pairing the small, brick-like pavers with larger, more irregularly shaped pavers and slabs.

If your patio or deck features these types of dramatic pavers and slabs, you can tie off or create a more finished look by bordering the space with one or more rows of these charming pavers. They are easy to blend with many other different hardscaping materials and are available in seven different colors.

4. Mista Random

We love Mista Random pavers for a number of different reasons. For starters, the majestic concrete pavers feature incredible texturing that offers unique style and sophistication to any home.

For another, the pavers are available in a wide range of different colors and dimensions, which makes it very easy to create designs that really “pop” and offer a great deal of visual interest for stimulating the senses and imagination.

When used around decks and patios, the Mista Random pavers can be taken to an even higher level. They are very easily paired with a wide range of other landscaping and hardscaping materials, both standing out on their own and enhancing the beauty of the existing elements throughout your property.

We’ve seen many homeowners use Mista random pavers to create beautiful borders surrounding paved areas and they can even be great for creating a natural transition between various paving materials throughout the landscape.

5. Flagstone

Flagstone is beloved for its irregular shaping and naturalistic appearance and the Techo-Bloc collection does not disappoint.

Moving outward from a more angular and geometrically stylized patio or deck and into the natural vibe presented by Flagstone can create a natural transition from upscale outdoor living space into the flowers, trees and vegetation that make up the remainder of your property.

Borders, paths and walkways are all great ways to incorporate the Flagstone collection.

Tips for Choosing the Right Techo-Bloc Pavers

After looking at this list, you may be quite intrigued by the idea of introducing Techo-Bloc pavers into the landscape surrounding your patio or deck, but you may feel unsure about which materials would be right for your home.

You don’t need to simply “wing it” or make a guess and hope that things turn out alright. In addition to tapping into the knowledge resources available at Braen Supply, you can also make use of online design software tools that can help you to better visualize how specific materials will look within the scope of your landscape or hardscape.

Talk to one of our experts to learn more about how you can make use of this type of software in order to craft a spectacular outdoor living space that is fully customized and tailored to your unique needs and desires.

Buying Techo-Bloc Pavers in NJ

When you’re ready to landscape with Techo-Bloc pavers around your home’s patio or deck, Braen Supply is ready to help you realize your dreams. As Techo-Bloc authorized dealers, we have exclusive access to the latest and most accurate product information.

This means we are able to provide you with insider advice on how to choose, work with and maintain your Techo-Bloc pavers. We always offer the lowest and most competitive prices on Techo-Bloc materials.

Feel free to visit our local showroom for more design inspiration. Our materials can be picked up at your convenience or can be bulk delivered to project sites throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC and PA.

10 Things Experts Are Saying About the Techo-Bloc Mini Creta Collection

Have you heard of the Techo-Bloc Mini Creta collection? As one of Techo-Bloc’s most popular hardscaping collections, the Mini Creta line has created a lot of buzz in recent years.

Homeowners and industry experts alike are excited about the possibilities presented by this unique and gorgeous group of high quality, manufactured concrete products. Like all Techo-Bloc materials, Mini Creta offers a naturalistic appearance at an affordable price.

But what else makes Mini Creta stand out from other products on the market? Take a look at what experts have to say about the Techo-Bloc Mini Creta collection.

1. Its Aged Look Creates Timeless Beauty

One of the things that experts love most about the Mini Creta collection (both the original and Architectural lines) is that the materials come with a carefully crafted and richly textured finish that provides the illusion of aging.

It appears that the concrete materials are actually natural stones that have been gently aged with time and taken from a local forest. This provides homeowners with a hardscape that offers a sense of timeless, classic beauty.

2. It’s Easy to Blend With Other Colors

Both the original and Architectural Mini Creta collections by Techo-Bloc offer homeowners many options when it comes to color palette, and experts agree that this is highly advantageous.

Warm shades of brown, beige and tan or cooler tones like gray and onyx black provide users with the ability to select colors that work well within the scope of their landscapes and that will complement other colors throughout the hardscape nicely.

3. It’s Easy to Blend With Other Materials and Textures

Another huge perk of working with Mini Creta materials is that they are so simplistically elegant that they can be paired up with just about any other Techo-Bloc product line or natural stone product.

Blocks can be used to create pillars or kitchen islands, and attractive caps or slabs from a completely different collection can be used to complete the look. This creates interesting textural juxtapositions while still offering harmony and beauty throughout the property.

4. It’s Extremely Versatile

Experts have named the Techo-Bloc Mini Creta collection the “most versatile” collection that the hardscaping brand has to offer. It’s truly amazing how many different ways in which the materials can be purposed throughout a given property.

Whether you’re working with the classic or Architectural collection, you’ll find that the “stone” materials can be used to create stunning staircases, elaborate walls, seating, outdoor kitchens, bars, pillars and so much more.

5. It Suits Any Style

Both Techo-Bloc Mini Creta collections can be easily integrated into any style of decor. The sleek and sophisticated lines and edges of the Architectural collection might better suit a home that prefers a modern and trendy sense of styling, whereas the classic collection can be used to complement homes with a traditional sense of decor, those with rugged sensibilities, or those that like to get lost in the romance of a wooded storybook cottage. The possibilities are nearly limitless.

6. It Offers Uniformity and Cohesion

The Techo-Bloc Mini Creta collection is expansive. The classic Mini Creta collection quickly became a top seller and performer, and from there, the Architectural Collection was born.

This offers a slightly more modern take on the Mini Creta materials, offering sleek lines and sharp corners for a chic look. In addition to these, a line of Mini Creta pillars also exists.

Because there are so many different products within the greater collection, you’ll find that it’s very easy to build up a hardscape with materials that are uniform and “go” together for a truly cohesive look.

7. It Increases Property Value

Experts agree that upgrading your landscape can significantly increase your home’s curb appeal and property value, and they also agree that the Techo-Bloc Mini Creta collection is the perfect option for giving your home a much needed (and highly profitable) makeover.

The classic elegance of the “stone” materials brings a new level of sophistication and worth to your entire property and will get buyers very excited.

8. It Adds to the Functionality of Outdoor Living Spaces

If you’re hoping to get more use out of your outdoor living area, experts will tell you that you should consider working with a material from the Mini Creta collection. The incredible collection is able to help you maximize your space in a way that is functional and practical.

Walls and ledges can double as seating, while stair cases can double as retaining walls. Kitchen islands and bars can be built up from the blocks, creating a stunning and fully functioning area to cook and entertain your guests. It’s so easy to create a usable space with these “stones.”

9. It’s Easy to Install and Maintain

Experts will have no problem telling you that the Techo-Bloc Mini Creta collection is one of the simplest hardscaping materials to construct and install on the market today. The interlocking units can be assembled quickly so that you can start enjoying your new outdoor living space as quickly as possible.

Generally, industry professionals will recommend that only those with DIY and contracting experience handle the work on their own. Skilled Techo-Bloc contractors can complete the work for those with less experience, and they can get it done quickly and affordably.

Once the materials have been installed, they are very low maintenance. Simply spraying down or washing the materials with a solution of water and mild detergent from time to time will keep dust and debris from accumulating and taking away from the beauty of your hardscape.

10. It’s Tough and Durable

The Techo-Bloc Mini Creta collection is astoundingly tough, durable and long lasting. Experts are impressed with how well these materials are crafted, and agree that the collection is held to the highest standards for quality.

The materials don’t fade or stain easily, nor are they prone to cracking or becoming scratched up – even when exposed to regular usage and extreme temperatures.When installed and cared for properly, Techo-Bloc materials can continue to look fabulous and serve their purpose for generations.

Working With Techo-Bloc Mini Creta in NJ

NJ homeowners who are interested in the Techo-Bloc Mini Creta collection can rely on Braen Supply for all of their needs. Braen Supply has long been recognized as an authorized Techo-Bloc dealer, meaning that we have demonstrated a high degree of knowledge about and passion towards the Techo-Bloc brand and its products.

We take the time to talk with each of our customers in order to get a feel for what they’d like to accomplish with their projects so that we can point them in the right direction and provide them with helpful tips and advice.

We always offer the most competitive rates on Techo-Bloc materials. Techo-Bloc Mini Creta products can be picked up at your convenience or can be bulk delivered to areas throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC and PA.

Mini Creta by Techo-Bloc: Everything You Need to Know Before Buying

You’ve been itching to give your hardscape a makeover. You’ve been shopping online for the perfect materials. You’ve discovered the one-of-a-kind aged yet chic look of Mini Creta Techo-Bloc wall “stones.”

Still, despite loving the appearance of these incredible blocks, you’re eager to learn more about the materials prior to purchase. Well, you’ve come to the right place.

As experts on Mini Creta Techo-Bloc products, we’re happy to give you the 411 (and then some!) on these versatile hardscaping materials. Read on to learn everything you need to know about Mini Creta before buying.

Mini Creta by Techo-Bloc: Knowledge is Power

Knowing that you like the overall look of a particular hardscaping material isn’t enough to make a sound decision for your hardscaping upgrade.

While looks are certainly important (after all, you want to love the appearance of your outdoor living spaces!), you also need to be aware of all of the details that make a product unique, and whether or not those details meet your unique needs and desires.

Taking the time to learn more about Mini Creta Techo-Bloc wall “stones” will allow you to feel more confident in moving forward with your project plans and will empower you to maximize the value of your property. Here’s a look at what you should know:

Mini Creta Looks Like Aged Stone…

The first thing you’ll notice about Mini Creta wall blocks is that they look like something that would fit right into old world European architecture. That’s because both sides of the stone are given a chiseled, aged appearance.

You’ll fall in love with the detailed texturing of each block, featuring ridges and recesses that add a great deal of natural depth and dimension to your outdoor living space. The colors, too, match those of naturally aged stone, and you’ll find it easy to create the perfect look for your property.

… But It’s Actually Concrete

After visually inspecting Mini Creta Techo-Bloc products, you’ll be amazed to learn that the blocks aren’t made from natural stone at all. Techo -Bloc is known for designing and engineering concrete pavers, slabs, blocks and similar hardscaping materials that look just like the real thing.

Because the blocks are made from concrete, they’re much more affordable and you’ll be able to count on consistency and uniformity throughout the design of your project.

Mini Creta Should be Sold by Authorized Dealers

Mini Creta wall blocks are manufactured by Techo-Bloc, but Techo-Bloc does not sell its products directly to consumers like yourself. Instead, Techo-Bloc selects the very best suppliers to distribute its materials on its behalf.

It’s very important to look for a local authorized Techo-Bloc dealer in order to ensure that you’re getting the real thing and to get the best deal possible on your hardscaping materials.

Mini Creta is Available in Numerous Colors

Homeowners have no shortage of options when it comes to selecting a color for their Mini Creta blocks. Nine distinct color categories are available for your review and selection, featuring shades of brown, tan, red, rust, black and gray.

These options make it easy to establish a theme that suits your individual personality and unique desires. The end result is a space that you’ll love both now and in the many years to come.

Mini Creta Blocks Offer Style Versatility

Everyone has their own unique sense of style, so it only makes sense that your Mini Creta wall blocks should make it possible for you to represent your tastes by offering a variety of way to lay out the “stones” into varying patterns and designs.

Mini Creta Blocks are Highly Functional

In addition to looking fabulous, Mini Creta Techo-Bloc products are known for offering a great deal of functionality to any outdoor living space. These unique blocks can be used in a number of different ways throughout the property, enhancing your outdoor living experience, boosting curb appeal and even increasing the overall property value of your home.

Of course, one of the most common ways to use Mini Creta blocks is in the construction of a retaining wall. Retaining walls are generally used in properties that feature hilly or sloped areas. The wall can serve two different purposes:

First, it works to withstand lateral pressure and prevent erosion from occurring, and secondly, it helps to create more usable space for planting, gardening, or relaxing throughout the property. In addition to building up retaining walls, many NJ homeowners have also used Mini Creta blocks to establish dividing, or blade, walls.

This is a popular option for those who would like to create a distinct boundary between different “rooms” in their hardscapes, such as between an outdoor kitchen and an outdoor living room. Walls can also be built up around swimming areas for added privacy or for creating a boundary.

We’ve also seen many cases wherein Mini Creta Techo-Bloc materials are used in building attractive pillars and columns, to enhance outdoor fireplaces, kitchen counters and fire pits, or as an attractive flower box or planter.

Whatever the case may be, you’ll find that Mini Creta blocks are more than capable of meeting your needs and acting in a way that is entirely functional and practical.

Mini Creta Blocs Require Little Maintenance

Once installed, you’ll love knowing that you won’t have to expend much of your precious time, energy, or money into caring for your Mini Creta Techo-Bloc materials. The blocks are manufactured to last, and they don’t become stained, chipped, scuffed, or chipped easily.

This means that you won’t be required to do much more than to spray down your wall from time to time with a gentle stream of water in order to remove any dust or other debris that might otherwise build up and detract from the beauty of your hardscape.

Mini Creta Products are Long-Lasting

Mini Creta blocks are some of the toughest and most durable hardscaping products on the market today, and they will continue to look and function beautifully throughout the generations. Because they are colored all the way through, you won’t discover fading over time.

The concrete blocks are also able to hold up against the elements – even the freeze and thaw cycles that are so common here in NJ and throughout the Northeast.

They won’t be damaged by wind, rain, or daily exposure to UV rays from the sun. When you invest in Mini Creta blocks, you get your money’s worth as they last for a lifetime.

Mini Creta Techo-Bloc Products For Sale in NJ

If you’re ready to move forward with plans to work with Mini Creta blocks, Braen Supply is ready to help you turn your dreams into reality. We are authorized Techo-Bloc dealers and have access to Mini Creta products of all colors and sizes.

All of our products are competitively priced and can easily be worked into any budget. Our team of experts will take the time to address your needs and answer any additional questions you may have prior to purchase.

Once ordered, Mini Creta blocks can be picked up from our location or bulk delivered to areas throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC and PA.

3 Alternative Uses for Techo-Bloc Retaining Walls

Techo-Bloc is known far and wide for its beautifully crafted, durable and affordable landscaping and hardscaping materials. It makes sense, then, that so many NJ homeowners turn to Techo-Bloc when their landscapes are in need of retaining walls.

When installed correctly, these incredibly versatile wall blocks are able to withstand lateral pressure from the soil and prevent soil erosion throughout a sloped property. Did you know, though, that Techo-Bloc retaining wall blocks can be used for other purposes?

Maybe you don’t necessarily need a retaining wall in the traditional sense, or perhaps you love your retaining wall so much that you want to incorporate the Techo-Bloc materials throughout other areas of your landscape.

Whatever your situation, Techo-Bloc retaining wall blocks could be the perfect fit for your property makeover. Here are 3 of our favorite alternative uses for Techo-Bloc retaining walls.

Benefits of Techo-Bloc Retaining Wall Blocks

Before we dive into these unique ways to purpose Techo-Bloc retaining wall blocks, we want to take a moment to highlight some of the many benefits associated with working with these incredible materials. Some of the key advantages to using Techo Bloc retaining wall blocks include:

Natural Appearance – The primary reason why people love Techo-Bloc products like their retaining wall blocks is that they are so beautiful and natural in their appearance. Each block is crafted to emulate natural stone, or in a few cases, natural hardwood planks. It’s nearly impossible to tell the difference between Techo-Bloc manufactured concrete materials and the real thing.
Consistency – Not only do Techo-Bloc retaining wall blocks look fabulous, but they are also consistent in their appearance and quality. Each unit is built with the same degree of care and attention, ensuring that you’ll be able to enjoy a uniform look throughout your completed wall or alternative hardscaping project.
Affordability – For obvious reasons, price is a huge advantage when working with Techo-Bloc. Because the materials are less expensive than natural stone, you’ll spend a lot less on the overall project.
Ease of Installation – Techo-Bloc wall blocks are extremely easy to work with and install. Although we generally recommend that you only take on a project by yourself if you’ve done some DIY type projects in the past, it’s a very straightforward process. Even if you hire a contractor, you’ll find that those familiar with Techo-Bloc products will be able to get the work done quickly and efficiently.
Strong and Durable – Techo-Bloc retaining wall blocks are built to last. They are colored throughout, ensuring that you won’t have to worry about fading and discoloration throughout time and exposure to sunlight. The blocks are also able to withstand even the most extreme weather conditions. They will not crack or chip during NJ freeze and thaw cycles throughout the winter months. In addition, they don’t easily become stained, and are very easy to maintain. The end result is a very long lasting product that you’ll love for a lifetime.
Lifetime Warranty – When you work with Techo-Bloc materials, you’ll always be able to enjoy the peace of mind that your investment is protected. When installed and cared for properly, Techo-Bloc offers a lifetime warranty on materials, so in the event that something does go wrong, you won’t be out any cash.

3 Alternative Uses for Techo-Bloc Retaining Walls

Now that you understand what makes Techo-Bloc products so special, we’re ready to take a look at some inspirational ideas for incorporating retaining wall blocks into your landscape:

1. Increase Your Outdoor Living Space

Many NJ homeowners live on hilly or sloped properties, and that can make outdoor living a little bit tricky. Instead of surrendering to the fact that your patio set is just going to roll downhill and giving up on enjoying your time in the great outdoors, we recommend leveling out and beautifying the space with Techo-Bloc retaining walls.

You can actually cut into the hillside (or hillsides) throughout your property and create level terraces at varying heights. Retaining walls work by offering structural support to these areas and by making them look sophisticated.

At last, you’ll have a space where you can set up that patio, outdoor kitchen, or fireplace you’ve been dreaming about for so long. Because Techo-Bloc retaining wall materials are so compatible with a number of other Techo-Bloc products and natural stone, you’ll find that it’s very easy to create a cohesive space that will add significant value to your home.

2. Show Off Your Gardening Skills

Homeowners who have a green thumb will quickly fall in love with what Techo-Bloc retaining walls can do. Instead of just planting your rose bushes, flowers and vegetables in a dirt patch near your house, you can really make the fruits of your hard labor “pop” and stand out with the use of beautiful wall blocks.

Whether you go with the natural and chiseled look of Mini Creta Architectural blocks or like the idea of constructing a raised planter from Borealis blocks that look just like wood, you’ll be delighted with the results.

Raised planters can actually make it much easier for you to plant and tend to your various plantings, and will add a level of elegance to your property that will attract positive attention to your home and will leave you feeling excited about your landscape.

You might consider constructing standalone raised planters with wall blocks throughout your property, or you might dedicate a carefully crafted terrace to serving as a stunning garden for your home.

3. Get Cookin’

Our favorite alternative uses for Techo-Bloc retaining walls are in the outdoor kitchen environment. We’ve seen many incredible landscaping and hardscaping makeovers that were centered around the beauty of these wall blocks in our customer’s cooking spaces.

The blocks are absolutely perfect for building up gorgeous and practical outdoor kitchen bars and islands. The natural appearance of the materials are easily paired with large slab countertops, as well as with outdoor pizza ovens and fireplaces.

The result is truly stunning. We’ve even seen people use retaining wall materials to build modern and chic fire pits where they can gather with friends to toast marshmallows and hot dogs. Feel free to have fun with your project!

Buying Techo-Bloc Retaining Wall Blocks in NJ

If you’ve fallen head over heals for the look and functionality of Techo-Bloc retaining wall blocks, Braen Supply is here to help you get started on your project. We are authorized Techo-Bloc dealers and, as such, we have insider knowledge about each of the different materials that can be used in the construction of retaining walls (or alternative projects).

We’re happy to provide you with answers to your questions, or to offer advice on the right materials for your home. We carry a full inventory of Techo-Bloc retaining wall materials, and we always offer the lowest and most competitive prices.

Feel free to stop by our showroom to see these amazing products today. Our Techo-Bloc materials can be picked up or bulk delivered to areas throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC and PA.

Does Techo-Bloc Sell Mini Creta in NJ?

Techo-Bloc’s Mini Creta collection is something special. As the brand’s most versatile wall stone, Mini Creta blocks are able to recreate the exact look and feel of natural stone at just a fraction of the cost.

Although manufactured from concrete, you’d never guess from looking at a wall, ledge, pillar, fire pit, raised planter, or other project constructed with Mini Creta that the blocks weren’t made from the real thing – they’re just that incredible, and they’re perfect for any landscape or hardscape.

Knowing that you want to work with Mini Creta wall blocks by Techo-Bloc is only half of the battle, though. Once you’ve made the decision to complete your project with these spectacular materials, you need to know where to go in order to buy them. Does Techo-Bloc sell Mini Creta in NJ? Well, yes…and no. Read on for an explanation.

Techo-Bloc Dealers in NJ

Although you can buy Mini Creta wall blocks by Techo-Bloc in NJ, Techo-Bloc itself doesn’t sell the materials directly to consumers in NJ. Techo-Bloc prefers to put its focus on what it does best: designing and manufacturing stellar “stone” products that homeowners will fall in love with time and again.

In order to sell their products, then, Techo-Bloc must rely on authorized dealers. These authorized dealers are businesses that have taken the time to learn everything they can about Techo-Bloc materials – what they are comprised of, how they should be installed, how they complement one another, tips for choosing and working with the right products, pricing, etc.

After demonstrating this superior knowledge, Techo-Bloc gives the dealer their stamp of approval and makes its collections available to them for direct-to-customer sales. This is the case with Mini Creta wall blocks. A limited number of dealers in NJ have received the honor of acting as an authorized Techo-Bloc dealer, and these are the only locations where you will find genuine Mini Creta products at fair and affordable prices in your locale.

Choosing a Techo-Bloc Dealer

Beyond being authorized to sell Techo-Bloc products like Mini Creta wall blocks, there are some important things to look for in a Techo-Bloc dealer. Taking the time to find a dealer that meets the following criteria will ensure that you have the most positive experience possible:

Industry Background and Experience

Begin with the basics and research how long your prospective dealer has actually been working in the landscaping/hardscaping industry and what level of experience they have.

Remember that a dealer that has been in business for a long time will have achieved its level of success by consistently meeting customer needs throughout the years and offering stellar products and services.

These are also the companies that will have the most industry knowledge and will be the best equipped to guide you through the process of purchasing your materials and completing your project.

Knowledgeable Staff

It doesn’t matter how long a dealer has been in business if it employs team members who haven’t a clue what they’re talking about. Avoid big box retailers that hire entry level or low-skill, seasonal employees that aren’t really interested in or passionate about the products they sell.

Instead, look for companies that focus on employee training and that employ workers who have a genuine interest in the industry. Don’t hesitate to test your prospective supplier’s knowledge by asking important questions about the Mini Creta products you’re interested in.

A good supplier will be able to answer your questions quickly and confidently, but will not hesitate to let you know when he or she doesn’t not know the answer to a question and needs to look up the information or ask someone else.

Be wary of a supplier that seems to stumble over his or her words and seems unsure about the information or advice that they are providing you with. These salespeople may be making up information as they go along in hopes of telling you what you want to hear and making a deal.

Local Showroom

When shopping for Mini Creta wall blocks by Techo-Bloc, one of the smartest things you can do is to visit a local showroom in order to check out the materials in real life.

Finding a Techo-Bloc authorized dealer that offers a public showroom in your region will help you to feel much more confident as you make choices about the right colors and patterns that you choose for your upcoming project with Mini Creta products.

Showrooms provide context for the various designs and display the best uses for Mini Creta blocks so that you can be inspired to create the landscape of your dreams.

Excellent Customer Service

Never give your business to a Mini Creta supplier that doesn’t have your best interests in mind. Look for an authorized Techo-Bloc dealer that cares deeply about its customers and works hard to meet their diverse needs on a daily basis.

You can get a good sense for how willing a Techo-Bloc Mini Creta supplier is to work with you by asking questions about the materials in question and about delivery services.

Does the customer service representative seem genuinely interested in providing you with help, or do they seem impatient and in a hurry to get you off their hands? Never work with a company that doesn’t have time to work with you.

Honest Prices

Be wary of any Techo-Bloc supplier that offers Mini Creta wall blocks for much more or much less than other local competitors. This is a red flag that something is off and that the supplier cannot be trusted.

Delivery Options

If you’re like most NJ homeowners, you’re going to need some help getting your Mini Creta wall blocks from the supplier to your job site. It’s smart, then, to look for a dealer that offers free or very low-cost bulk delivery services throughout your locale.

For best results, make sure that the company has a clean driver safety record and insist on working with a dealer that is willing to accommodate your specific scheduling needs for delivery.

Buying Mini Creta by Techo-Bloc in NJ

There’s no local, NJ supplier who is better suited to handling your Techo-Bloc and Mini Creta needs than Braen Supply. As a long-established and trusted landscaping and hardscaping supplier, we have been partnered with Techo-Bloc for years.

Because of this, we have the most extensive knowledge of Techo-Bloc products, including Mini Creta Wall blocks. Our team of experts is able to provide you with accurate, up-to-date information about all of the Techo-Bloc products we sell, and is more than happy to answer any questions you may have about your upcoming project.

We’re passionate about helping customers like yourself to create the landscapes and hardscape of their dreams. Our Mini Creta blocks are always available at the lowest and most reasonable prices, and can be picked up at your convenience or bulk delivered to job sites throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC and PA.

10 Gravel Patio Ideas That Won’t Break The Bank

Pea gravel is pretty amazing stuff. The smooth, round, pea-sized pebbles offer so much in the way of style and design versatility, featuring an array of stunning colors that are pleasing to the eye.

In addition to looking great, pea gravel is extremely functional, offers excellent drainage, is simple to work with, is incredibly affordable and requires very little maintenance. It’s no wonder that so many New Jersey homeowners are choosing to construct gorgeous and unique patios from pea gravel.

If you’ve fallen in love with this design trend, you’re probably wondering how you can construct a pea gravel patio that you’ll both love and be able to afford. These ten ideas will help you to come up with a pea gravel patio design that will look expensive without breaking the bank.

100% Pea Gravel

With the exception of any desired edging materials, the following ideas are for pea gravel patios that strictly rely on pea gravel for creating a beautiful “floor” for your outdoor living spaces:

1. Dining Only

While you may love the idea of working with other natural stone, concrete or porcelain paver materials when establishing an outdoor living room, you may want a more charming and intimate vibe for your dining space.

A pea gravel patio specifically for dining can create a nice visual contrast against the other features of your outdoor living room, helping you to transition the mood and enjoy the perfect atmosphere for outdoor dining.

2. Living-Dining Combo

Other NJ homeowners like the idea of a more cohesive outdoor living space, making use of pea gravel both for their living and dining spaces. This creates a classic and traditional look that will leave your guests feeling truly relaxed and at home while you host them.

3. Garden Seating

Those with a green thumb should have the freedom to enjoy the lush flower beds and vegetable gardens that they’ve worked hard to grow and maintain.

We love the idea of installing a small pea gravel patio somewhere within the garden itself, or along the border of such a garden. Here you will find a tranquil place to set up a bistro table and a couple of chairs for morning coffee or afternoon tea among the roses.

4. Sunbathing Serenity

When summertime rolls around, New Jersey residents want to soak up as much sunshine as possible. It can be very nice to establish a small pea gravel patio somewhere secluded within your property where you can set up your lounge chairs, lay back and sunbathe with a good book and an ice cold glass of lemonade.

Pea gravel doesn’t tend to absorb heat from sunlight, so it will help to maintain comfortable temperatures in your sunbathing oasis and will be cool to the touch of your bare feet.

5. Waterside Relaxation

If your backyard features a pond or similar water feature, you may have thought about lining the shore with sand. Although this is a traditional option for establishing a “beach” area, we urge you to think outside of the box and consider working with pea gravel instead.

Pea gravel is a great beach alternative and creates an inviting and relaxing atmosphere. The colors of pea gravel are reflected beautifully in the shimmering water. By using pea gravel, you can add much more purpose to this area of your property.

Instead of being “just a shoreline,” the use of pea gravel makes it possible for you to create a combination beach and patio space where you can have a waterside meal and enjoy the great outdoors.

6. Fire Pit Surrounds

We love the look of creating a seating area for your fire pit with pea gravel. Whether the fire pit has been constructed with natural stone, brick or concrete, its natural appearance will only be accentuated by the fine texturing and soothing colors of pea gravel. The cool and non-combustible material will offer comfort and safety as you enjoy the open flames on a crisp evening.

Hybrids

If you love pea gravel but aren’t sure you want to work with it exclusively, here are a few suggestions for integrating other hardscaping materials:

7. Pea Gravel + Flagstone

Many homeowners love the natural look of irregular cut flagstone when it’s surrounded by pea gravel. You can use flagging to create stepping stones through or across the patio, or can simply space the flagstone out to break up the pea gravel and add more interest.

8. Pea Gravel + Brick

Brick complements pea gravel well in areas near fire or water features, like fire pits and fountains. You might choose to surround these features with brick in order to accentuate their beauty and then finish things off with pea gravel.

9. Pea Gravel + Concrete/Porcelain

Concrete and porcelain pavers that have been designed to look like natural stone are becoming really popular in our area and they look fantastic when paired with all-natural pea gravel materials. A combination of these materials and pea gravel can create a unique and stunning patio where you’ll love to gather with loved ones.

Something for Your Four-Legged Friends

Humans aren’t the only ones who enjoy spending time outdoors. Dogs love being able to go outside and lay in the sun, but you may not want them trampling your plants or eliminating on your grass.

A growing number of New Jersey pet owners are constructing patio areas just for their dogs that are constructed with – you guessed it – pea gravel:

10. Pea Gravel Doggy Patio/Run

Believe it or not, dogs love pea gravel and they need a space to hang out in your backyard, too! Setting up a designated doggy patio or dog run area will make your furry friends happy and will help to save you a lot of money in the long run.

Pea gravel is durable and offers great drainage, so it won’t become damaged when your dogs pace or do their business. This means that unlike grassy areas, you won’t have to spend money on maintenance and repairs to keep your property looking great. It’s an excellent investment for any animal lover.

Working With Pea Gravel in NJ

Are you ready to see what pea gravel can do for your landscape? Braen Supply has everything you need to construct a stunning, budget-friendly and long-lasting pea gravel patio of your very own. We offer high-quality pea gravel at competitive wholesale prices.

We also sell a wide range of natural stone, brick and concrete/porcelain materials that can be used in conjunction with pea gravel or as an edging material.

We’re happy to answer any questions you may have about the construction process, and we can even direct you to reliable, local contractors who can build a stunning patio quickly and affordably. Our pea gravel can be picked up from our store or can be bulk delivered to areas throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC and PA.

Your Guide to Topsoil Prices in 2017

If you’ve got a green thumb, chances are that you’re itching for all the snow to melt so that you can start your next gardening or landscaping project. In order to make sure that your grass is green and your plants are vibrant, you’re going to need topsoil – and lots of it.

Making sure that you get the highest quality topsoil is the key to ensuring that your garden and lawn are vibrant and beautiful, but that doesn’t mean that you have to spend an arm and a leg. In order to help you prepare your gardening and landscaping budget for 2017, we’ve put together this handy guide for assessing the quality of soil and finding the best price.

What Does Premium Topsoil Look Like?

It’s impossible to get the most bang for your buck if you don’t know what you’re looking for. Buying a cheap bag of topsoil won’t do you much good, after all, if it’s of poor quality.

Premium topsoil is comprised of several different ingredients, all of which are key to the soil’s ability to produce healthy vegetation. When looking for quality topsoil, you should take the time to learn about the soil’s composition. Be sure to ask your supplier about:

Minerals

Healthy topsoil will contain three key minerals: nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. You may notice that these minerals all come from bedrock.

That’s because natural topsoil comes from bedrock that has broken down and decomposed over time. It’s important that the soil contain these three minerals, as all are essential to supporting plant life.

Water

Good topsoil won’t be excessively dry, but will be moist to the touch. This is important because minerals are only able to decompose in water, and they need that moisture in order for plants to be able to access nutrients via their root systems.

In addition, water is the sustaining force behind bacterial activity in the soil, another important ingredient in topsoil. Water must be present in topsoil at the time of purchase, and the topsoil should be regularly wetted for ideal growing conditions.

Oxygen

If the topsoil is packed too tightly, look somewhere else for your materials. Quality topsoil will have a loose, airy texture. This is because it contains plenty of oxygen.

Oxygen is an absolute must in supporting the microorganisms that are present in topsoil. This also helps to trap and store water, making it easier for the soil to maintain proper moisture levels.

Microorganisms

As mentioned in the previous two points, bacterial activity and the life of microorganisms is extremely important in maintaining topsoil health.

The activity of these bacteria actually work to convert organic material into valuable nutrients, and make the soil’s nitrogen more digestible by plants. Typically, you want your topsoil to contain a composition of 2%-4% microorganisms.

Silt

Finally, silt is needed in order to help topsoil trap water while also preventing it from becoming too saturated and compromising plant health. You’ll usually find silt combined with materials like clay, loam or sand.

What Factors Can Impact Topsoil Prices in 2017?

As you begin your quest for the perfect topsoil for your project, you may notice that there are variations in pricing from one bag of topsoil to the next. There are several factors which can influence the cost of topsoil, and understanding these factors will help you get the fairest prices:

Quality

We’ve already covered the importance of selecting a premium topsoil for your garden or landscape. Without the proper nutrients and conditions in the topsoil, plants will fail to grow and thrive as you desire them to.

If you come across topsoil that is especially cheap, it’s probably because it is of a substandard quality. It may be overly dry or lacking the right quantity of microorganisms.

Whatever the case may be, don’t waste your money. Remember that if the price seems too good to be true, it probably is!

Quantity

If you’ve got quite a bit of work that needs to be done throughout your property, it’s a good idea to carefully calculate how much topsoil you need in order to determine if it would be smarter for you to buy your materials in bulk.

Bulk prices tend to come much cheaper, and can save you a fair bit of money in the long run. You might even consider going in on an order with one or more of your neighbors in order to take advantage of bulk pricing.

Supplier

Depending on where you buy your topsoil, you could end up paying a different rate. Some retailers charge more for their topsoil than others, and some may sneak in hidden costs by charging you for a bulk delivery to your location.

Be sure to shop around and compare prices. If one supplier is asking a price that’s much higher or much lower than its competitors, be wary of the integrity of the company and its topsoil. Take the time to ask about delivery services and make sure that they are free prior to scheduling a drop off.

The Best Topsoil Prices in NJ in 2017

Braen Supply is the leading supplier of high quality topsoil in northern NJ and its surrounding areas. As the most trusted name in landscaping supplies, we employ a team of skilled professionals who are more than qualified to answer any questions you may have about topsoil.

Our topsoil contains all of the top ingredients to ensure that your plants will grow to be healthy and happy. You’ll find that we always offer the lowest and most competitive rates around.

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

5 Expert Tips for Compacting Native Soil

Braen Supply believes in providing customers with valuable information that will aid in their hardscaping experiences in NJ. It’s important to remember that before any project, understanding the base material compaction process is crucial. This blog post by Alliance offers 5 expert tips for compacting native soil.

The following post is an article by Alliance. The writer that wrote the article below is not affiliated with Braen Supply in any way.

Proper compaction of the subgrade and base material is key to a successful hardscape design. In this blog post our Technical Support Manager, Mike Huber, will lend 5 expert tips for compacting your subgrade or native soil.

1. Get to know your native soil.

Before beginning your project, identify the type of native soil you’re working with. Make sure that it’s suitable for supporting the expected load, whether pedestrian or vehicular. Highly organic soils need to be removed and clay soils may need to be removed or amended.

2. Amend (if needed).

Amending clay soils can be done with:

Portland cement
Larger clean stone compacted into the clay
A combination of the above

3. Check moisture content.

Granular soils should have a certain moisture content for proper compaction. Moisture will lubricate the particles and help them slide into place.

4. Use the right compaction equipment.

First, make sure your compactor is large enough for the job … then make sure you use the right type of compactor. Vibratory plate compactors are appropriate for granular soil types, but jumping jacks or sheepsfoot rollers are necessary for clay soils. Native soils should be compacted to 98% Proctor Density.

5. Don’t reuse excavated materials.

It’s important to never put excavated materials from a site back into the hole. Once soils are excavated they “fluff” by 20-30% and are usually unsuitable for compaction back to their original density.

Follow these five pieces of advice and you’ll be in good shape for the remaining phases of your project.

One last tip! If you find your soil is substandard or questionable, consider using a geotextile fabric to add an additional layer of strength.