8 Wow-Worthy Hardscape Designs Built By Belgard

Are you in love with Belgard but not sure where to begin with your hardscaping project? Although you’re free to come up with your own unique design, the Belgard experts have put together a ton of outstanding and utterly wow-worthy outdoor living design concepts to inspire your creativity. Here’s a closer look at eight of our favorite ideas:

1. The Entertainer (Concept #42)

It’s clear that Belgard came up with this spectacular concept by carefully considering the needs of its customers who absolutely live to entertain their friends, family and neighbors. This ideal space really has it all. We love the look of an outdoor kitchen featuring a full bar where guests can sit and talk to the chef as they whip up a meal on the grill, or chat with the “bartender” as they pour a round of freshly blended margaritas. A cozy living and sitting area is located just off the bar and grill island. Here, guests can warm themselves around the fire while still staying close to those in the kitchen space. A formal dining area is also included for large family meals and big events. There’s nothing you can’t do in this wonderful space.

2. Geometric Modern (Concept #5)

If you are interested in creating a dramatic and modern yet simplistic and practical outdoor living space, we suggest turning your eyes to Belgard’s Concept #5. This outdoor living room plays off of sleek and simple geometric shapes with sharp edges that are marked by clear boundaries. This pattern extends not only to the patio floor itself, but also in the arrangement of the furnishing selected. Interesting angles are created with the dining set, and richly contrasting shades of black and white add to the bold appeal. The sharpness of the patio design is contrasted nicely against the rounded curves of a beautifully landscaped area for seasonal plants and vegetation along the perimeter of the seating area.

3. A Space for All Seasons (Concept #38)

Who says you can’t enjoy your Belgard outdoor living space even when the temperatures drop or when it’s raining outside? Concept #38 makes it possible for you to stay connected to the great outdoors no matter what. A posh swimming pool and relaxing hot tub are enclosed by glass, greenhouse walls and roofing to keep the elements out while still allowing you to see all of the beauty surrounding you. An adjacent seating and dining area allows you to wine and dine within the seasonally-friendly space. When you’re craving more fresh air, simply step outside onto the patio to sing songs and trade stories around the fire pit.

4. A Whole World Outdoors (Concept #34)

When the weather is beautiful, there should be nothing stopping you from living your whole life outdoors. Many NJ homeowners are making it a priority to establish outdoor living spaces that allow for all of the comforts and luxuries of indoor living – all while surrounded by nature. In this concept, Belgard demonstrates how cooking, dining and lounging are all a part of outdoor living here in the northeast. A simple yet versatile grill island makes it easy to prep a meal while staying connected with guests, and a covered dining area means that you and your loved ones can enjoy something delicious while being protected from the sun. A corner is carved out for relaxing and unwinding on a sleek outdoor couch surrounding an inviting fire pit – perfect for making memories.

5. Sheer Simplicity (Concept #33)

Sometimes the best ideas are the simplest ideas. If you’re the type of NJ homeowner that likes to get back to the basics and keep the focus of your outdoor living space on the nature surrounding you, take a look at Belgard Design Concept #33. The naturalistic flagstone-style Belgard pavers allow you to create interesting shapes and layouts within your space without being overly flashy or distracting. The curving edges and various shapes create natural boundaries for situating a grill island, a seating area and a fire pit. Surrounding the entire patio with a simplistic edging material will put the finishing touches on this “back to basics” idea.

6. Backyard Paradise (Concept #29)

Step into your own personal paradise with Concept #29. This breathtaking Belgard design creates the perfect environment for a daily “staycation” throughout the summer months. The centerpiece of this particular landscape design is a brilliant swimming pool, surrounded by two contrasting (yet complimentary) edging materials to create a magnificent border. The patio features large, bold pavers that add to the upscale, lush feel of the environment. Here, poolside hungers and soak up some rays before sipping on a cocktail at the patio table, or gathering around the fireplace.

7. Well-Rounded Lifestyle (Concept #23)

If you’re tired of the same old rectangular front driveways, you might be quick to fall in love with the curvaceous and circular patterns found in Design Concept #23. Belgard shows off the versatility of various types of its exciting pavers as they are arranged into bold circles and semi-circles, perfect for welcoming guests to your home, allowing for parking and creating natural places for turning around.

8. Hello/Goodbye (Concept #57)

We love the unique look of the front walkway and front patio area featured in Belgard’s Concept #57. As visitors approach your home from the sidewalk, they will be naturally inclined to enter into this fabulous, semi-circular pathway from the right. The cobbled appearance of the pavers gives a traditional New England feel to the walkways as it rounds a beautifully landscaped space and connects to the main path to the front door. A small patio before the threshold of your front porch will create a welcoming appeal. As guests leave your property, they can round the arced front center on the opposite side to which they entered, thus completing the path.

Choosing a Design Concept

Here at Braen Supply, we love the wow factor offered by these unique and vibrant Belgard design concepts, but these 8 ideas are only the tip of the iceberg. We strongly encourage you to visit the Belgard website to review all of the brilliant design concepts available for outdoor living rooms, pool decks, driveways, walkways and more. Be sure to also speak with a Belgard Authorized Contractor to make use of even more online design tools and to get a better idea about which concept is right for your NJ home.

Working With Belgard Products in NJ

Reading to create a wow-worthy Belgard outdoor living space of your own? Braen Supply is a Belgard Authorized Dealer and can provide you with all of the information and materials you need to complete the project of your dreams on a budget you can afford. Visit our local showroom to speak with our team of experts and to get started on the process today. We offer bulk delivery to areas throughout most of NJ, and parts of NY, NYC, CT and PA.

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The 5 Tools You Will Need Before Installing Garden Stones

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

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

5 Tools That You Will Need Before Installing Garden Stones

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

Steel Rake 

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

Weeder

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

Hand Tamper

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

Landscape Fabric

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

Wheelbarrow

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

5 Quick Steps to Install Garden Stones

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

Kill Grass and Weeds

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

Dig into the Soil

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

Apply Crushed Stone Pack and Landscape Fabric

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

Apply Edging

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

Add the Garden Stones

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

Purchasing Garden Stones in New Jersey

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

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The Most Incredible Outdoor Makeover Featuring Techo-Bloc Pavers

There are few things better than a fantastic landscaping makeover. With the right Techo-Bloc materials and a skillful installation, any landscape can go from “zero” to “hero”. As an authorized Techo-Bloc dealer, we’ve had the privilege of seeing some truly incredible landscaping upgrades throughout the years. In today’s post, we’ll highlight some of the most amazing transformations we’ve seen so that you can draw a little bit of inspiration for your upcoming landscaping project.

Retaining Wall Renaissance

Many NJ homeowners struggle to make use of their outdoor living spaces because of hilly landscapes and sharp slopes. With this type of landscape, it’s impossible to set up a large area to gather with friends, grill out, or tend to your garden. Techo-Bloc retaining wall systems, however, are tough and durable enough to help you restructure the entire nature of your property. Excavating and building into a slope is easy with strong and beautiful Techo-Bloc products. We’ve seen many homeowners take an otherwise unusable space and create incredible terrace gardens and patios with all of the bells and whistles.

Poolside Retreat

Have you ever noticed that some swimming pools look absolutely gorgeous while others are somewhat of an eyesore? The primary difference between these two types of residential swimming pools is the pool deck. An old, worn down, and weathered pool deck can completely detract from the beauty of the water and can even make the swimming area unappealing. We love seeing the before and after transformations that occur when homeowners ditch their old pool decks for decks comprised of Techo-Bloc slabs and pavers. We’ve seen people use Inca slabs to establish a southwestern vibe, Borealis slabs to create a resort feeling, Parisian pavers for a unique cobbled look, and more.

Stepping Up

Attractive steps can make a major impact on the overall look and feel of a landscape. With the right Techo-Bloc steps, suddenly, a slope or a hill can become something truly grand and inviting. Techo-Bloc steps also make the landscape more functional and can increase the overall value of a home. We’ve been truly amazed to see how Maya steps can add to the overall enchantment and charm of a space in all 4 seasons, and we’ve been delighted with homeowners who have created steps that double as seating around fire pits or in sunken outdoor living rooms.

Party Central

We’re very passionate about helping homeowners create an inviting outdoor living space where they can host get-togethers with family, friends, and neighbors. Because of this, the Techo-Bloc transformations involving the installation of outdoor grill islands, bars, kitchens, fire pits, and fire places are among our absolute favorites. We’ve seen so many homes go from being just another house on the block to being “the” place to be for celebrations and hanging out. Techo-Bloc grill islands make it possible to cook and entertain with ease, and extra features like pizza ovens and fire pits add to the functionality and visual appeal. There’s no end to what you can accomplish with Techo-Bloc.

Planning Your Outdoor Makeover with Techo-Bloc

Are you ready to see how Techo-Bloc can transform your backyard? Feel free to visit our local showroom to draw even more inspiration. We are an authorized Techo-Bloc dealer and can connect you with a full inventory of Techo-Bloc products, answer your questions, and offer up advice. Our materials are always competitively priced and can be picked up or bulk delivered to areas throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC, and limited parts of PA, and CT.

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The 5 Key Techo-Bloc Items to Include in Your Outdoor Living Room Design

There’s no better way to spend a beautiful NJ evening than relaxing in the comfort of your own outdoor living room. Whether you’re looking to construct a brand new outdoor living space or are in need of giving your existing space a facelift, Techo-Bloc is the way to go. Techo-Bloc is known for designing and manufacturing the highest quality materials for hardscaping and landscaping at fair and reasonable prices. Although you can’t go wrong with any Techo-Bloc piece, today we’re highlighting five of our favorite Techo-Bloc products that you can use to give your outdoor living room the makeover it deserves.

1. Borealis Slabs

We’re crazy about the look and feel of Borealis slabs by Techo-Bloc. Unlike most Techo-Bloc products which are designed to look like natural stone, this particular line has been crafted to mimic the appearance of natural hardwood. As such, the slabs are the perfect fit for anyone interested in adding a bit of warmth and a homey vibe to their outdoor living room. The faux wood comes in several different shades and is easily incorporated with outdoor living room furniture and other hardscaping elements.

2. Manchester Foyer

Every outdoor living room should have an incredible focal point that will draw you and your guests together, and there’s no better fit than the Techo-Bloc Manchester Foyer fireplace kit. This stunning fireplace will capture the imagination of yourself, your friends, and your family members as you enjoy the gorgeous NJ spring, summer, and autumn evening under the stars. Imagine the warm crackle of the fire coming from your faux stone fireplace as you trade stories and make memories that last for a lifetime.

3. Mini Creta Wall Ledges

The Mini Creta collection from Techo-Bloc is known for being one of the brand’s most versatile and popular stones. This is because the blocks can be used to create stunning walls that divide up your outdoor living space and can even double as recessed wall ledges or seating. Creating a ledge built into the wall allows for cozy and intimate seating for family gatherings or simply for enjoying a good book and a cup of iced tea. Add even more appeal by lining your Mini Creta bench with outdoor pillows.

4. Raffinato Fire Pit

Everyone loves the idea of getting together and spending quality time around a fire. In addition to fireplace kits, Techo-Bloc also offers the perfect materials for constructing beautiful, functional, and modern fire pits. Our pick for 2018 is the Raffinato collection. This simple yet elegant collection offers style and sophistication. The blocks look great with any Techo-Bloc “flooring” you choose for your outdoor living room.

5. Antika Pavers

The natural “stepping stone” look of Antika pavers creates the sense of being in the countryside or an English garden. These pavers can be used to create a unique floor for your outdoor living room or can even be used to add interest to your floor by serving as a border or edging accent.

Creating a Techo-Bloc Living Room in NJ

Braen Supply is here to help you transform your outdoor living room into something truly spectacular with Techo-Bloc. As authorized Techo-Bloc dealers we carry a full inventory of superior Techo-Bloc products at low and competitive prices. Our team of experts is more than happy to help you choose the best materials for your project and to provide you with advice and input. Our Techo-Bloc products can be picked up or bulk delivered to select areas throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC, and limited parts of PA, and CT.

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The 5 Techo-Bloc Hardscaping Supplies That Will Give Your Home a Modern Look

As a modern NJ homeowner, you want your home to look as fresh and chic as possible. This means updating your landscape and hardscape to match your unique sense of style and personality. Fortunately, giving your property a totally modern makeover is easier (and more affordable) than you may think. Techo-Bloc offers a wide range of sophisticated and modern products that are simple to work with and that are very budget friendly. Read on to check out 5 of our favorite modern Techo-Bloc products that are trending in NJ and its surrounding areas right now.

1. Travertina Raw Slabs

The Travertina Raw slab collection absolutely screams modern elegance. The large, geometrically pleasing, sharp slabs allow you to create an eye-catching floor for your outdoor living space. The slabs come in various shades which can stand out on their own or can easily be paired together for a contemporary checkerboard pattern.

2. Ocean Grande

Make Waves with this new and unique slab collection from Techo-Bloc. This particular line of slabs has been designed to evoke the sense of ripples in the water or lines in the sand, while still feeling totally upscale and sleek. The large, bold slabs paired with the unique texturing allows for a one-of-a-kind modern theme for your outdoor living space that will add value to your property and get your neighbors talking in the best way possible.

3. Borealis Slabs

Hardwood flooring has been a staple for centuries, but it still has its place in modern design. Borealis slabs by Techo-Bloc are designed to look just like smooth, sleek natural hardwood. The slabs are available in shades of brown, black, and gray, making it possible for you to put a truly modern spin on your hardscape. Whether you’re going for cool sophistication or an industrial theme, you’ll pull it off with ease.

4. Graphix Wall Blocks

Looking to make a bold statement with your home’s retaining wall systems, outdoor kitchen features, or fire features? Techo-Bloc Graphix wall blocks add texture, depth, and dimension to your landscape in a way that is fresh and modern. The blocks look fabulous for kitchen and grill islands, fire pits, and for creating raised planters or tiered gardening.

5. Raffinato Collection

We’ve been huge fans of the entire Raffinato collection for quite some time, and NJ homeowners are on the same page. This simple yet intriguing collection offers smooth shapes, lines, and coloring that works perfectly within the scope of any modern landscaping style. While the slabs and blocks are very simplistic, they spark the imagination with their versatility. Raffinato slabs and blocks can be used for outdoor living spaces, outdoor kitchens, planters, walls, steps, fire pits, and more.

Moving Forward with Your Modern NJ Landscaping Project

Ready to give your landscape the modern edge you’ve been craving? The team at Braen Supply is here to help. As an authorized Tehco-Bloc dealer, we are proud to offer a full inventory of modern and fabulous products at competitive prices. Our team of experts is more than happy to answer any questions you may have and to provide you with advice about your upcoming project. Our Techo-Bloc products can be picked up at your convenience or bulk delivered to areas throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC, and limited parts of PA, and CT.

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Techo-Bloc Inspiration Guide: 5 Outdoor Living Spaces That Will Make You Swoon

Outdoor living is an important part of owning a home in the northeast. NJ homeowners make it a point to spend as much time in the great outdoors as possible – before the bitterly cold winter months close in. In order to maximize time outside, many homeowners find it desirable to create inviting and luxurious outdoor living areas where they can relax, unwind, and create memories with their loved ones. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your outdoor living space (or creating a unique space for the very first time), you’re probably looking for a little bit of inspiration. To get your creative juices flowing, here’s a look at 5 amazing outdoor living ideas that are to die for.

1. Poolside Paradise

Turing the swimming pool into a luxurious oasis is easy with Techo-Bloc pavers and slabs. Although you can’t go wrong with any paver or slab collection, right now we’re in love with the costal vibe given off by the Ocean Grande collection, as well as the faux wood look of Borealis slabs.

2. Foodie’s Delight

Homeowners who love to cook outside will positively swoon over the Techo-Bloc grill island. This stunning grill island offers the look of natural stone finishing, which compliments any landscape, as well as stainless steel appliances. You’ll have everything you need to prepare, cook, serve, and clean up after a mouth watering meal.

3. Warm Fireside

If you’re looking to create a hub where friends and family can gather together to talk, laugh, and even play games, we recommend establishing an outdoor living room where the outdoor fireplace is the focal point. Living rooms with the Manchester Foyer fireplace kit, for instance, truly bring people together while looking absolutely fabulous.

4. English Garden

Feel like you’re a world away from the comfort of your own home. We love the look of garden patios created with cobbled pavers like those in the Allegro or Parsien collections. They give off a bit of English countryside charm, making them the perfect place to admire your rose bushes while drinking iced tea.

5. Intimate Fire Pit

Fire pits are all the rage right now in NJ and throughout the northeast. Having an intimate space together around the flames is the perfect way to end any summer or fall evening, and make your time with your loved ones last a little longer. There are so many ways to create an incredible space for bonding around a fire pit with Techo-Bloc. Not only does Techo-Bloc offer an array of blocks and fire pit kits that will work for your unique sense of style, but you can also add to the intimacy of the environment by creating a recessed area, by surrounding the pit with raised seating for large gatherings or parties, or even by bordering the fire pit with a standout Techo-Bloc paver or slab of your choice.

Designing a Techo-Bloc Outdoor Living Space in NJ

As an authorized dealer and leading supplier of Techo-Bloc products in NJ, Braen Supply is delighted to help you create the outdoor living space of your dreams. Feel free to visit our local showroom for further information, or to address any questions you may have. Our Techo-Bloc materials are always available at the lowest prices, and we even bulk deliver to select regions throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC, and limited parts of PA, and CT.

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Review: The New Techo-Bloc Pavers You Have to Know About

If you’ve ever taken a look at the Techo-Bloc product catalogue, you’re familiar with the quality and beauty of the brand’s pavers. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, though, Techo-Bloc comes back with not just one, but five new paver collections, all of which are equally gorgeous and versatile. With options like these, you may feel like it’s a challenge to choose the right pavers to give your home the makeover it deserves. Fortunately we’re here to break down each new paver product line so that you can make the best decision for your landscape. Here’s a look at the five new and exciting types of pavers on offer this season:

Aquastorm

If you love the rain but hate flooding and pooling, this paver collection is for you. If you love the idea of having a traditional concrete driveway or patio, but long for the greenery of lush grass, this collection is for you. If you adore clean lines but also crave something totally unique in its aesthetic, this collection is for you. Essentially, Aquastorm pavers offer the best of every world so that you can have your cake and eat it, too. The permeable paver system is eco-friendly and is designed to allow grass to grow in between, offering rich texturing and visually fascinating patterns.

Mika

The Mika collection by Techo-Bloc puts a modern spin on classic clay bricks. We love how the pavers provide a rich, chiseled look while still appearing smooth and sleek. The pavers are available in three different colors and allow for the filtration of water.

Valet

Homeowners who are looking to add a touch of style and sophistication to their properties will appreciate the look of the Valet paver collection. These square pavers offer the geometrically clean lines that suit a modern chic mode of design while featuring a chiseled and rough face that is mean to emulate the look of lava rock. This creates much more interest than your standard square paver without detracting from your ability to keep your home upscale and elegant. The pavers look fabulous when installed with like colors, or when used to create a checkerboard pattern.

Travertina Raw

The Travertina Raw collection by Techo-Bloc may just be the brand’s fastest growing in terms of popularity. The pavers look just like natural travertine, and create a truly smooth and cool vibe for any walkway, pool deck, outdoor living or dining room, or other outdoor living space. Because Techo-Bloc also offers a Travertina Raw wall block, it’s easy to create matching features like grill islands, retaining wall systems, and fire pits.

Squadra

It’s time to let your imagination take flight with this exciting new paver collection by Techo-Bloc. The Squadra paver line is comprised of smaller, cube shaped units that can be arranged into dazzling patterns. Squadra pavers are available in gray, brown, black, and brick red, creating many opportunities for playing with color and mosaic styling. This particular collection makes for fabulous and memorable front walkways, and can also serve as the perfect banding or edging material for driveways, patios, and more.

Buying Techo-Bloc Pavers in NJ

If you’ve fallen in love with the newest pavers from Techo-Bloc, we encourage you to visit Braen Supply. We are a leading supplier of Techo-Bloc in the Tri-State area, and as authorized dealers, we can offer the lowest prices Our Techo-Bloc pavers can be picked-up or bulk delivered to certain areas throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC, and limited parts of PA, and CT. Give us a call or stop by to learn more.

Explore the New Techo-Bloc Products for This Season

Since its inception in 1989, Techo-Bloc has been wowing contractors and homeowners alike with its incredible collections of quality manufactured stone. The versatile slabs, pavers, blocks, caps, steps, and other landscaping accessories are designed and engineered with the utmost attention to detail, thus ensuring that each finished product mimics the look and feel of natural stone. While there are some collections which have proven themselves to be staples and have been around for decades, Techo-Bloc never stops working to create new and exciting materials for the world to enjoy. Read on to discover some of the brand’s latest product offerings.

Gorgeous Slabs

NJ homeowners love working with large slabs that can set the tone for their landscapes and outdoor living spaces. Techo-Bloc has rolled out a few new slabs this season:

  • Ocean Grande – This dry cast slab offers a unique visual experience for users, featuring a wavy pattern that will dazzle and delight.
  • Travertina Raw – The Travertina Raw collection is quickly becoming a new favorite for homeowners. This line is crafted to offer the sleek, chic vibe of natural travertine.
  • Para HD – Smooth texturing and fine lines are the hallmarks of these slabs.
  • Dunes – If you’re a fan of vibrant texturing, the Dunes collection is perfect for you. The wet cast slabs are slightly smaller than Ocean Grande slabs and offer a more dense patterning.
  • Borealis Stepping Stones – Add warmth and enchantment to your landscape with these slabs which are designed to look like freshly cut wood.

Fantastic Pavers

Techo-Bloc pavers are available in smaller dimensions than slabs and are able to help homeowners install patios, pool decks, paths, walkways, and more. Here’s a look at some of the newest pavers available this year:

  • Aquastorm – We’re very excited to introduce our customers to Techo-Bloc Aquastorm. This totally unique line of permeable pavers is specifically designed to prevent flooding while promoting the growth of greenery!
  • Mika – There’s a new brick in town! The Mika collection by Techo-Bloc has been crafted to look like clay brick but with a modern twist. The interesting texturing and reclaimed finish offer and aged appearance while still looking totally clean and chic.
  • Travertina Raw – Once again, Travertina Raw is here to WOW us with its beauty and versatility. In this scaled down size, the Travertina Raw collection has the appearance of brick, and can create the impression of being on European soil.
  • Squadra – Add color and whimsy to your landscape with this amazing product collection. The collection is comprised of small, cube shaped pavers which are available in four colors that cans stand alone or be mixed and matched for a truly unique pattern.
  • Valet – The Valet collection was designed with lava rocks in mind as inspiration, and therefor offer truly incredible texturing. The square pavers are great for creating checkerboard patterns.

Wonderful Walls

Techo-Bloc is known for its beautiful retaining wall blocks that can be purposed in many ways throughout the hardscape. New to Techo-Bloc this year are the following:

  • Travertina Raw – Yep! Travertina Raw is rocking the Techo-Bloc world of wall blocks, too. The rich travertine look offers elegance to any home.
  • Skyscraper – The sky is the limit with these smooth, sleek blocks that can support high structuring.

Buying Techo-Bloc in NJ

Because we are an authorized Techo-Bloc dealer, Braen Supply is proud to offer the latest collections form Techo-Bloc at competitive prices. Visit our showroom today to learn more about how you can upgrade your landscape, or to find out if we bulk deliver to your local job site.

 

 

3 Alternative Uses for Techo-Bloc Slabs

Techo-Bloc slabs have long been a popular material for NJ homeowners interested in upgrading their hardscape. These concrete slabs are carefully designed and crafted to look just like natural stone while offering low maintenance and affordable pricing. Traditionally, Techo-Bloc slabs are used for laying down stunning front driveways, walkways, backyard patios, and swimming pool decks. Because the slabs are available in a wide range of colors, sizes, and styles, however, they can be used for so much more. In fact, a growing number of people are starting to think outside of the box and are discovering alternative uses for Techo-Bloc slabs. To get your creative juices flowing, we’ve put together a list of our top 3 favorite ideas:

1. Techo-Bloc Slab Countertops

Who says Techo-Bloc slabs have to be laid out on the ground in order to be beautiful and functional? These dazzling and versatile slabs are a fantastic choice for creating incredible countertops for your home’s interior and exterior. If you’ve been giving any thought to installing an outdoor kitchen, for example, the natural stone look of Techo-Bloc slabs will compliment the great outdoors while bringing a touch of sophistication to your space. Of course, these slabs can also be brought indoors for kitchen and bathroom countertops. Regardless of where you make use of Techo-Bloc slabs, though, you’ll find that they are tough and durable enough to resist chipping and scratching, and that they don’t become stained easily. They are also very easy to clean, making them perfect for meal prep and dining.

2. Techo-Bloc Slab Mantles

There’s nothing cozier than a warm fireplace. Both indoor and outdoor fireplaces often serve as the focal point of any living space, thus becoming a hub for gathering with friends and loved ones. If you love the idea of entertaining around a fireplace, we encourage you to consider using Techo-Bloc slabs for creating a gorgeous mantle. Techo-Bloc products pair nicely with stone and brick fireplace, adding a little something extra that will make your home stand out. Slabs of varying styles make it easy to create rustic flavor, smooth and sleek contemporary design, or a simple and traditional look. The slabs are non-combustible and heat resistant, allowing for maximum safety and comfort.

3. Techo-Bloc Slab Benches

One simple way to add to the charm, visual interest, and functionality of your landscape is to add one or more benches. A bench creates a sense of welcoming warmth, and allows you to enjoy even more time in your outdoor living space. The latest trend for NJ homeowners is to skip purchasing traditional park benches and seating, instead opting to create benches from paver components. Techo-Bloc retaining wall blocks can be used for the base of your bench, while Techo-Bloc slabs can serve as an attractive and practical seat. The slabs are weather resistant and won’t become faded, discolored, chipped, or otherwise damaged when exposed to the elements.

Working with Techo-Bloc Slabs in NJ

Are you ready to start getting creative and embracing alternative uses for Techo-Bloc slabs in your own back (or front) yard? As a leading supplier of Techo-Bloc products, the team at Braen Supply has the inside scoop on how to choose and purpose Techo-Bloc slabs for maximum enjoyment. We’re happy to answer any questions you have about our materials, and we always offer the lowest prices. Stop by today or give us a call to learn more about having Techo-Bloc slabs bulk delivered to select areas throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC, and limited parts of PA and CT.

Installing a Techo-Bloc Prescott Fire Pit in NJ: Your Free Guide

A Techo-Bloc Prescott fire pit can take your backyard to the next level. The addition of this gorgeous fire pit will provide you with a space where you can gather with your friends, family, and neighbors, and will allow you to enjoy your time in your outdoor living space a little longer – even on a dark or chilly evening! Before you can start basking in the light and warmth of a crackling fire, though, you’ve got to be able to properly install it. Fortunately, Techo-Bloc fire kits – including the Prescott fire pit – are easy to install. Just follow these instructions in order to start living it up.

Step 1 – Location

First things first: You need to determine where you’re going to locate your fire pit. Techo-Bloc recommends making sure that your Prescott fire pit is situated no closer than 20 feet from any structure, but you should also consult with city ordinances.

Step 2 – Build Your Foundation

Techo-Bloc Prescott fire pit kits can be installed on top of a preexisting concrete or paver surface, or on top of a level and compact bed of gravel. Regardless of which surface you plan on installing your fire pit upon, you will need to make sure that you provide sufficient drainage for rainwater and you will need a proper setting bed. Refer to the installation guide for details.

Step 3 – Block Installation

As you begin to install the blocks that come with your Prescott fire pit kit, you should take care to ensure that the narrower side of the blocks are facing inward toward the center of the fire pit, and to make sure that there are no gaps on the outer face of the blocks. Use a mallet to gently tap the blocks into the setting bed. From here, you can begin to build upward. A heat-resistant and non-combustible concrete adhesive should be used to bind each course together. An adhesive should only be applied when your blocks are completely dry and free of dust.

Step 4 – Capping

The sixth and final course of the fire pit should be dry laid before using a steel insert to lift each block individually and bind with a concrete adhesive.

Step 5 – Fill the Pit

Fill the center of the pit with 4″ of 3/4″ washed clean stone in order to allow for filtration and drainage after putting out a fire or after a rainstorm.

Step 6 – Curing

You must wait at least 48 hours after installation prior to lighting a fire in your Prescott fire pit in order to allow for ample curing time.

Step 7 – Enjoy!

Once the installation and curing are complete you are free to enjoy the beauty of your Techo-Bloc Prescott fire pit!

Not Comfortable with DIY?

Although many homeowners enjoy installing their own Techo-Bloc Prescott fire pits, others either don’t have the time or don’t feel confident in their ability to do so. If this rings true for you, we encourage you to seek out an authorized Techo-Bloc contractor who can help you put your fire pit together.

Buying a Techo-Bloc Prescott Fire Pit Kit in NJ

Braen Supply is one of the leading Techo-Bloc dealers in the area and is an authorized supplier. We sell Techo-Bloc Prescott fire pit kits at the fairest and most reasonable prices and we’re more than happy to provide you with information about the kits and answer any questions you may have. Feel free to visit our local showroom to get an idea for how the fire pit looks in person, or to discuss your project today.