5 Ways to Include Techo-Bloc Mini Creta into your Backyard

With summer just around the corner, many NJ homeowners are gearing up to give their landscapes a makeover. Even a modest upgrade can make a huge impact on your ability to enjoy your outdoor living space and on the overall value of your home – especially when you introduce Techo-Bloc Mini Creta blocks to your property. So how can you beat make use of these versatile materials? Today’s post will highlight 5 smart ways to introduce Techo-Bloc Mini Creta to your home.

1. Stunning Staircases

Mini Creta blocks are a great way to construct incredible staircases that will welcome guests to your home or connect various parts of your property. The blocks are not only ideal for crafting steps of differing widths, lengths, shapes, and styles, but also for constructing attractive staircase walls. The naturally beautiful and richly textured blocks pair nicely with various Techo-Bloc stair treads and will create a warm and inviting feel for your home.

2. Seating Ledges

We absolutely love the look of outdoor ledges for seating that have been built into a Techo-Bloc Mini Creta retaining or freestanding wall. Whether the wall is being used to prevent erosion or to divide outdoor living spaces, you can craft your Mini Creta wall with a recession for seating and entertaining. Just throw down a few cushions and your Mini Creta bench is complete.

3. Raised Planters

Those with a green thumb will relish the thought of adding gorgeous raised planters to their outdoor living spaces. The vibrant texturing and stately elegance of Mini Creta blocks make them perfect for showing off your flower gardens and other vegetation. Even if your home is built on a steep or sloped lawn, you’ll be able to grow to your heart’s content. Mini Creta Blocks can be used to level off areas of land, serving as both a retaining wall and a functional raised planter.

4. Outdoor Bar

If you love to entertain, you should give some serious thought to constructing an outdoor bar with Techo-Bloc Mini Creta blocks. Imagine serving up drinks and mouthwatering eats while you and your loved ones gather around your stylish bar and enjoy conversation or the next big game. Mini Creta blocks compliment other Techo-Bloc products with ease, making it easy to find a suitable countertop or an outdoor grill and kitchen island that will complete the look of your new bar.

5. Fire Pit

What’s better on a summer or fall evening than gathering with your friends and family around a crackling fire? Mini Creta blocks make it possible for you to design and install a fire pit that reflects your unique sense of style. The blocks are non-combustible and will remain relatively cool when exposed to heat, thus adding to your comfort while enjoying the fire.

Working with Techo-Bloc Mini Creta in NJ

Do you have big ideas for bringing Techo-Bloc Mini Creta home to your landscape this summer? The team at Braen Supply is here to help. As an authorized Techo-Bloc dealer, we’re proud to carry a full inventory of Mini Creta blocks in all available colors and sizes. Our team can provide you with expert advice on installation and maintenance, and can connect you with an authorized Techo-Bloc contractor. Our Techo-Bloc Mini Creta products are available at the lowest prices on the market and can be picked up or we can bulk deliver it to many locations throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC, and limited parts of PA, and CT. Give us a call or stop by our convenient NJ location to learn more today.

8 Questions to Ask Your Contractor Before You Install A Techo-Bloc Outdoor Living Room

So, you’ve decided that you’re ready to take the plunge and install a Techo-Bloc outdoor living room. Congratulations! Techo-Bloc is one of the very best designers and manufacturers of landscaping and hardscaping materials, and you really can’t go wrong regardless of which product collections you choose from. Before you can start the total transformation of your backyard and start living like a king, though, you’ve got to go through the process of hiring a contractor who can get the job done right. Do you know how to find the best team for the gig? By asking the following 8 questions, you can narrow down your options and hire a contractor worthy of your business.

1. Are you an authorized Techo-Bloc Contractor?

This is the first and most important question. When it comes to Techo-Bloc installations, not all contractors are made equally. In order to get the job done correctly, a contractor must be officially partnered with the Techo-Bloc brand. This is the best way to guarantee a job well done and to ensure that any Techo-Bloc warranties will be honored in the future.

2. How long have you worked with Techo-Bloc?

It’s smart to get a sense for how long your prospective contractor has been working with Techo-Bloc. This will give you a clue on how familiar the contractor is with various Techo-Bloc products so that you can feel confident that they will be up to the task of handling your outdoor living room installation.

3. How do you train your crew?

Just because a contractor is authorized by Techo-Bloc doesn’t necessarily mean that every new hire is being adequately trained on how to work with and install Techo-Bloc products. Make sure that the team coming to your home has been trained and educated in both the art of Techo-Bloc installations as well as safety.

4. Can I see samples of a Techo-Bloc Outdoor Living Room you completed?

A good contractor will be more than happy to show you photos of the work that they have done on other homes who have installed another Techo-Bloc outdoor living room and other Techo-Bloc products. This will demonstrate the quality of their work.

5. How is your safety record?

Safety on the job is critical, so never overlook the step of looking into your prospective contractor’s safety record.

6. Are you insured?

In addition to verifying safety records, you should also make sure that the contractor carries the proper insurance policies for liability and worker’s compensation.

7. Can you accommodate my schedule?

Before signing a contract, you should make sure that your potential contractor is actually able to get the job done in a timeframe that makes sense for your lifestyle and needs. After all, if you’re hoping to do some entertaining this summer, it won’t do you much good if the contractor can’t start work until October!

8. Will you provide me with customer references

Always be sure to ask your prospects for references to satisfied customers. Speaking with previous clients will provide you with valuable insight about the contractor’s reliability, level of professionalism, and their overall quality of work.

Need further help pinpointing the very best local Techo-Bloc contractor for your Techo-Bloc outdoor living room installation? As an authorized Techo-Bloc dealer, Braen Supply has connections with local contractors with strong reputations for their work. We can set you up with all of your materials and set you up you with a contractor who will make your dreams come true. Give us a call or visit us for more information today.

5 Ways Techo-Bloc Borealis Can Help You Transform Your Home

Are you itching to change things up with your home’s landscape this summer? One of the easiest and most affordable ways to give your property the makeover it deserves is to work with Techo-Bloc Borealis slabs and blocks. These incredible concrete materials are designed to look exactly like hardwood so that you can add a touch of rustic sophistication to your home without the costs and maintenance associated with natural wood. Here’s a look at how you can use Borealis materials to totally transform your landscape in 2018.

1. Update Your Pool Deck

NJ homeowners with swimming pools will be absolutely delighted with the ways in which Borealis slabs can bring new life to their outdoor living spaces. Beyond plain concrete, Techo-Bloc Borealis slabs bring a spa-like, 5-Star resort, exotic vacation feel right to your backyard. The stunning “hardwood” adds sophistication and elegance while still being practical and safe. Unlike natural wood, Borealis slabs won’t be negatively impacted by exposure to moisture, and it will remain cool and offer traction for bare feet on slippery surfaces.

2. Create a Warm Outdoor Living Room

NJ homeowners love having the ability to enjoy time in the great outdoors, so it’s no wonder that so many people make it a priority to construct inviting outdoor living rooms where they can relax and entertain. This year, faux hardwood floors via Techo-Bloc Borealis slabs are all the rage. You’ll create a warm and luxurious environment where you, your family, and your guests can trade stories, share a drink or a meal, or enjoy a fire. The slabs are very low maintenance, don’t stain easily, and are weather resistant.

3. Grow in a Raised Planter

If you enjoy growing a flower or vegetable garden during the spring and summer months, we suggest that you consider building a lush raised planter with Techo-Bloc Borealis wall blocks. These blocks look like real wood planks but won’t present any problems with burrowing pests or rot after time. The blocks are also weather resistant, so they won’t need to be covered or stored during the cold winter months so common here in the northeast.

4. Give Your Home Some Edge

In addition to making fantastic planters, Borealis blocks are also perfect for creating borders and edging throughout your property. Bring the loom of natural wood to create an attractive edge around trees, gardens, and paths. The colors of the faux wood bring out the best in landscaping vegetation and other hardscaping materials, including natural stone and other Techo-Bloc products. You’ll notice an instant increase in curb appeal and property value.

5. Build Beautiful Steps

We’ve seen an increase in the number of homeowners choosing to build gorgeous and natural looking steps throughout their properties with Techo-Bloc Borealis blocks. Whether you’re trying to create a modern chic look for your contemporary home, or desire a rustic, woodsy feel for your property, Borealis blocks can help you meet your style goals.

Working with Techo-Bloc Borealis Products in NJ

As a leading supplier of Techo-Bloc Borealis products in NJ, Braen Supply is proud to connect you with Borealis slabs and blocks that will completely transform your home for the better. Because we are authorized Techo-Bloc dealers, we’re able to answer any questions you may have, offer valuable design and construction advice, and offer the lowest and most competitive prices. Our Techo-Bloc Borealis materials can be picked up at your leisure or can be bulk delivered to many areas throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC, and limited parts of PA, and CT. Give us a call or visit us learn more.

How to Install a Techo-Bloc Outdoor Living Room on a Budget

Think an outdoor living room is a luxury you can’t afford? Think again! If you’ve been dreaming about establishing a space where you can entertain, relax, and unwind, Techo-Bloc’s vibrant collection of landscaping materials and accessories can help you to turn your dreams into a reality. No matter how simplistic or grand your ideas may be, there’s a Techo-Bloc outdoor living room for every budget. This post will explore tips and suggestions for installing a Techo-Bloc outdoor living room that makes good sense for your wallet and lifestyle.

Step 1: Evaluate Your Space

The first step to creating an outdoor living room that matches your budget is to take a full assessment of your space. This is important for two reasons. First, you’ll have a better sense for what will and won’t fit in your landscape, thus allowing you to pinpoint the materials that are best for your home – and their respective costs. Secondly, it provides you with information on where underground utilities may be located so that you don’t disrupt them during installation and create expensive problems along the way!

Step 2: Draw Inspiration

The Techo-Bloc website offers a plethora of ideas for incorporating its pavers, blocks, slabs, caps, steps, and accessories into landscapes of all shapes and sizes. This will help you go get a better sense for the volume and types of materials you want to work with. It can also be helpful to visit the showroom of a local Techo-Bloc supplier for more great ideas.

Step 3a: Consider DIY

If you’re pretty handy and have tacked Do-It-Yourself projects in the past, you might consider handling the installation of your outdoor living room on your own. Depending on your experience and the scope of your project, this could be feasible – especially considering that Techo-Bloc products are known for how easy they are to install. We encourage you to look through Techo-Bloc installation guides in order determine if the DIY route is the best option for you.

Step 3b: Know Your Limits

In the event that you don’t feel confident in your ability to handle the installation of your Techo-Bloc outdoor living room on your own, you can still manage to complete the project on a reasonable budget. Talk to your local Techo-Bloc supplier for referrals to Techo-Bloc authorized contractors who can help you get the job done correctly and affordable.

Step 4: Practice Proper Maintenance

The installation of your budget-friendly Techo-Bloc living room isn’t the end of the story. Although Techo-Bloc is very affordable to begin with, you’ll be able to maximize the value of your living room by taking the time to properly care for your Techo-Bloc materials. Making a habit of regularly sweeping away dirt, grass, and debris will prevent staining and mold growth. You can also clean Techo-Bloc materials with a mild solution of dish detergent, water, and a soft bristled brush.

Installing a Techo-Bloc Living Room in NJ

Braen Supply has helped numerous NJ homeowners to achieve their dreams of installing luxurious and budget-friendly Techo-Bloc outdoor living rooms. We are a leading supplier of Techo-Bloc products, and offer a full inventory of pavers, slabs, steps, caps, fireplaces, fire pits, grill islands, and more. We can help you to determine how much material you need, and which products are best for your budget. Our Techo-Bloc products are always available at competitive prices and can be picked up or bulk delivered in select areas throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC, limited parts of PA, and CT.

How to Design a Functional Grill Island with Techo-Bloc

Techo-Bloc is serious about outdoor living. As such, the industry leader works hard to create materials and product lines that make it possible for homeowners like you to maximize your time in the great outdoors in comfort, luxury, and sophistication. The Techo-Bloc grill island is no exception to this rule. When installed wisely, the grill island can take your outdoor cooking and living space from “zero” to “hero” and completely impress your friends and loved ones. So how can you design and create the functional Techo-Bloc grill island of your dreams? Here are a few smart tips for coming up with a great layout that makes sense for you and your family:

Consider the Shape and Layout – Before you can install a Techo-Bloc grill island, you need to have a sense for the space that you have to work with, and understanding of how to create a layout for the grill island that will work within the scope of your property. If you’ve got a smaller backyard, for instance, you may need to keep things small and simple with a modestly sized, freestanding island. If you’ve got a large patio our outdoor living area, you might consider extending counter space and appliances on either side of your grill island. We love the look of wraparound kitchen designs that feature a grill island for both rounded and rectangular outdoor living areas. Some homeowners add depth to their grill islands by adding a second island or bar for dining that runs parallel or perpendicular to the island. Let your creativity flow!
Choose Appliances – If you want your grill island to be fully functional, you need to know which appliances you want to include in your outdoor kitchen (besides the grill, of course!) Do you plan on building in a refrigerator or a stove top? Would you like to incorporate a Techo-Bloc pizza oven? Do you need a sink? Make sure you’ve got everything you need to prepare, serve, and enjoy meals with your friends and loved ones at your grill island. And don’t forget the flat screen! If you’re hoping to set up a full-service bar and grill where you can watch the game with your buddies, you’ll need to have a place to set up the TV, so plan accordingly!
Visit a Showroom – One of the best ways to make a decision about your functional Techo-Bloc grill island is to visit a local showroom, like the one at Braen Supply. This will allow you to see what the different grill island look like in person. You’ll also draw inspiration for taking your grill island to the next level and customizing it to your needs.
Work with a Pro – When in doubt, it’s always in your best interest to speak to a professional about how to create a practical and functional design for your grill island. The team at Braen Supply can answer many of your questions, or you might consider hiring a landscape designer to help you come up with a great layout.

Installing a Techo-Bloc Grill Island in NJ

Are you ready to install the Techo-Bloc grill island of your dreams this summer? Brean Supply is ready to help you create your perfect outdoor kitchen. As an authorized Techo-Bloc dealer, we’ve got access to a full inventory of grill island colors, and can help you make deacons about expanding your kitchen. Our Techo-Bloc grill islands are available at the lowest prices in the area. Give us a call or visit our showroom for more information today.

How to Complement Your Outdoor Living Space with Different Techo-Bloc Antika Paver Colors

If you’ve done any research on upgrading your home’s landscape and hardscape, chances are that you’ve heard about Techo-Bloc, and if you’ve heard about Techo-Bloc, there’s a strong likelihood that you’ve heard good things about Techo-Bloc Antika Pavers. Antika pavers have become extremely popular in NJ and throughout the northeast in recent years. The uniquely shaped pavers allow homeowners to create and enjoy the look of cobblestone without breaking the bank. The simple and classic elegance of Antika pavers make it ideal for a wide range of projects, and the number of available colors makes it easy for people like you to compliment any existing landscaping style or theme. Here’s a look at how you can choose and use Antika paver colors to add to the beauty and charm of your property.

Euro-Chic – You don’t need to cross the Atlantic in order to enjoy the style and sophistication of European design. Techo-Bloc Antika pavers in the shale gray color family are perfect for creating a patio or outdoor living space with an English garden or Parisian theme. You’ll feel as though you’re truly enjoying high tea abroad – without ever leaving the comfort of your own home.
Earthy Vibes – Those who are at one with Mother nature and like to live in harmony with their sprawling gardens and vegetation should embrace Antika pavers in chestnut brown. The soft, earthy brown coloration of the pavers work to complement your vibrant plant life while evoking a sense of relaxation and serenity.
Southwest Style – In recent years, many NJ homeowners have been borrowing design elements from the Southwestern United States. This region is known for its sandy colors, and Antika sandalwood pavers are an excellent choice for anyone interested in this particular style. The color is great for turning your swimming pool into an outdoor oasis, or for adding a touch of warmth and charm to your outdoor entertaining spaces.
Modern and Sleek – If your property is based on sleek lines and smooth colors, we suggest working with Antika pavers in onyx black. The deep yet simple blacks will add a unique look to your landscape and hardscape and will allow your outdoor furnishings and features to truly shine.
Rustic Charm – Another breakthrough design trend that has emerged in recent years is the rustic look of a wooded, mountain, or storybook home. If you’ve been working to achieve this look with your landscaping and hardscaping features, Antika pavers in the chocolate brown color family will help you to complete and enhance your home. These pavers feature a deeper shade of brown that looks like the type of stone you would find deep inside of the forest, along an enchanting riverbed or stream.
Eclectic Beauty – Some homeowners have a much more eclectic sense of style, seeking to create beauty from a mosaic of colors and styles. Antika pavers come in colors that work wonderfully together, and the pavers are also able to easily compliment other Techo-Bloc hardscaping products and natural landscaping and hardscaping materials.

Landscaping with Techo-Bloc Antika Pavers in NJ

If you love the cobbled look of Antika pavers, it’s time to choose the colors that will best compliment your property. As an authorized Techo-Bloc dealer, Braen Supply is familiar with all of the colors available for Antika pavers and can provide you with insight and advice on which hues could be best for your specific project. Feel free to visit our conveniently located showroom, or give us a call for more information. Our Techo-Bloc Antika Pavers are available for pickup or bulk delivery to select areas.

Take Your Backyard Up a Notch With These Must-Have Techo-Bloc Outdoor Accessories

There are few things as wonderful as kicking back and relaxing in your backyard on a beautiful day. While even a simple patio can create a serene outdoor living space where you can sip on iced tea and enjoy a good book, though, your backyard has so much more potential! Techo-Bloc offers an incredible line of products and accessories that make it possible for you to take your outdoor living area to the next level and be the envy of your friends and neighbors – on a budget you can afford. Here’s a look at some of our favorite Techo-Bloc accessories that will make your backyard the coolest hangout on the block.

Grill Islands

Tacky, clunky grills are a thing of the past. Today, NJ homeowners are cooking up incredible meals in their own outdoor kitchens, and Techo-Bloc grill islands make that possible. These sleek and fully functional islands can be installed as an attractive, standalone unit, or can be built into wraparound kitchens, bars, and dining areas. This is the all-inclusive way to prepare, cook, and serve meals while enjoying the company of your loved ones on a gorgeous summer or fall evening.

Pizza Ovens

In addition to installing grill islands, a growing number of people are gaining interest in Techo-Bloc pizza ovens. These ovens are not only aesthetically pleasing, but they are huge crowd pleasers. You can cook and roast mouth-watering meals with the perfect degree of crispness and classic flavor. The ovens can easily be built into any Techo-Bloc kitchen plan, as they look fabulous when paired with a number of Techo-Bloc landscaping and hardscaping products.

Fireplaces

If you love spending time with your family and friends in the backyard, you should give some thought to installing your very own Techo-Bloc outdoor fireplace unit. Just like an indoor fireplace, an outdoor fireplace will tie your whole outdoor living room together and will create a cozy and inviting atmosphere for you and your family or guests to enjoy. Lighting a fire in a stunningly beautiful Techo-Bloc fireplace will allow the conversation and the memory maker to linger a little longer into the night, providing light and warmth after the sun goes down. It’s a “must” for anyone who wants to enjoy more time outside.

Fire Pits

Techo-Bloc fire pits are another fantastic option for those who love the idea of entertaining in their backyards around the dancing flames, well into the evening. A fire pit can create a romantic setting for two, or it can add to the ambiance of a block party or other celebration. Techo-Bloc offers several lovely fire pit kits for you to select from so that you can find the best match for the style and scope of your landscape. Fire pits can be a great addition to an outdoor living or dining area, and can also be situated near a swimming pool so that swimmers can warm up and dry off next to the crackling embers.

Adding Techo-Bloc Accessories to your NJ Home

Braen Supply is the top place to visit when you’re ready to add Techo-Bloc accessories to your backyard. As a leading supplier of Techo-Bloc products, we offer a full inventory of fabulous accessories that will turn your backyard into the paradise of your dreams. Feel free to visit our local showroom to draw inspiration for your project or to talk to an expert about your options. We sell Techo-Bloc accessories at low and competitive prices and offer bulk delivery to areas throughout NJ, NY, and NYC and limited parts of PA, and CT.

What Is The Best Stone for Outdoor Patios?

A new stone patio can completely transform the look of your property. In addition to looking fabulous, a quality stone patio allows you to get the most out of your outdoor living space while increasing your home’s value and curb appeal.

In order to be truly happy with your patio, you need to take the time to select the best stone for your specific needs. While NJ homeowners are fortunate enough to have plenty of fantastic options for patio construction, you may find that some materials are better suited to your lifestyle than others.

Today’s post will highlight some of the best stone for outdoor patio construction, and tips for choosing the right material for your property.

Best Types of Patio Stone

The landscaping and construction industries are thriving in NJ. As a result, local homeowners have the luxury of selecting from a wide range of high-quality stone materials when beginning their patio projects.

Multiple varieties of natural stone, including cut pavers and slabs as well as loose fill materials, are available. While larger pavers offer a more traditional appearance for an outdoor living space, loose-fill gravel and decorative stone add unique texturing and beauty to your property.

Understanding the individual merits of each stone option will help you to make a choice that will continue to delight yourself, your family and your guests in the many years ahead. Here’s a closer look at some of the best and most popular natural stone types for residential patios in NJ:

Bluestone

Bluestone has been a staple in patio construction for many years – and for good reason. This stunningly beautiful stone offers a sense of luxury and elegance while still providing a close connection with nature. Bluestone is easily recognized for its incredible coloring.

The stone features shades of blue, blue-gray, tan and sometimes indigo. The smooth blend of coloring is dazzling, regardless of the cut or style of bluestone.

Bluestone is available in large slabs, in pattern cut shapes, or as an irregular stone paver. In pattern cut bluestone, it’s simple to create aesthetically pleasing geometrical designs.

The irregularly cut stone offers the appearance of flagstone and allows for a much more one-of-a-kind appearance. Regardless of which style you go with, you’ll be pleased with the outcome. Bluestone is extremely tough, durable and weather resistant.

Brownstone

Brownstone is often associated with building materials in the heart of NYC, but it can be used for so much more. In fact, many NJ homeowners have found that the rich earthy tones of brownstone look absolutely fantastic in their outdoor living spaces.

Brownstone features shades of brown and tan, and creates a truly inviting environment for outdoor living. Available in pattern cuts, you’ll enjoy creating a beautiful arrangement that suits your every whim.

Limestone

Limestone has long been a favorite of homeowners throughout the northeast. The extremely reliable and subtly elegant stone material is extremely versatile and can be used for a wide range of purposes throughout your landscape or hardscape.

Whether you’re looking to create a “floor” for your outdoor kitchen or seating area or are considering a garden patio for reading, you’ll find that limestone slabs and pattern cut pavers are the perfect fit for your needs. Limestone doesn’t scratch or scrape easily and holds up beautifully when exposed to the elements.

Sahara Granite

One of the most unique and exciting natural stone options for outdoor patios is Sahara Granite. This exquisite material is characterized by lovely shades of tan, brown, gold and black.

The “desert vibe” given off by this stone makes it a great option for creating a poolside patio for lounging and entertaining. The stone is also great for any outdoor living area with water features.

Like all granite materials, Sahara granite is known for being extremely durable and long lasting – even when exposed to regular usage, wear and tear.

Pea Gravel

There’s no reason why you should limit yourself to stone slabs or pavers. A growing number of NJ homeowners are discovering the many benefits associated with working with loose fill materials.

Among the different types of loose gravel and other natural stone, pea gravel is among the most popular. Pea gravel is known for its small “pea” size and its smooth, round shape and texture.

Pea gravel features an array of lovely colors ranging from red, brown, tan, white, gray, blue, green and just about everything in between. This interesting blend of colors is visually intriguing and creates a soothing yet fun atmosphere.

One advantage to working with a loose fill material like pea gravel is that it can easily be poured into any shape, giving you a great deal of flexibility in terms of patio design. Gravel also offers excellent drainage, is extremely affordable, and is simple to maintain.

Other Loose Fill Stone

In addition to pea gravel, there are other loose fill stone options for you to choose from. Traditional ¾” washed clean stone offers a simple and yet elegant look of classic gray and white gravel.

Goose egg gravel is another excellent choice, offering a rounder and smoother appearance with smooth and neutral tones of white and tan.

Many NJ homeowners are also fans of yellow round “Jersey Shore” gravel. This fun, unique stone creates a bit of a beach vibe, featuring shades of tan, brown and yellow, which combine together for a golden, sandy appearance.

Choosing Your Patio Stone

Because each type of natural stone available for patio construction is so beautiful and reliable, you’ll find that you could benefit from any material.

Ultimately, the best stone for your outdoor patio is your decision, based upon your personal sense of style and what you want for your property, the intended use of your patio, and other landscaping or architectural features throughout your property.

It can be helpful to visit a local showroom in order to see how different materials appear in person and in contrast to other landscaping materials. You can also consult with a trusted landscaping professional in order to make the best possible decision for your home.

Buying Patio Stone in NJ

Braen Supply is a leading manufacturer and supplier of the best natural stone for outdoor patio installations in NJ and its surrounding areas. We take pride in offering the most beautiful and high-quality stone products at the lowest and most competitive wholesale prices on the market.

Our team of professionals is more than happy to discuss your goals, dreams and needs in order to provide you with advice on which product is right for you.

Our patio stone can be picked up at your convenience from our NJ facility or can be bulk delivered to areas throughout parts of NJ, NY and NYC and limited parts of PA and CT.

The 4 Tones of Techo-Bloc Aberdeen Slabs

If you keep up with our blog, you’ve probably seen us rave about Techo-Bloc Aberdeen pavers once or twice. Who can blame us? These incredible, geometrical and oh-so-bold slabs add a touch of sophistication and style to any landscape – almost effortlessly!

Whether used to pave a driveway, an outdoor living room, a swimming pool deck, or an outdoor kitchen and dining area, Aberdeen slabs will set the tone for you and your guests to relax, unwind and create memories that will last for a lifetime.

In order to accommodate the unique needs of its different customers, Techo-Bloc has worked to develop four unique color palettes for its Aberdeen collection. Today’s post will highlight the four tones that you can choose from when designing a landscape with Techo-Bloc Aberdeen slabs.

The Importance of Color

Before we dive into the colors on offer from Techo-Bloc, we want to take a few moments to discuss why it’s so important to set the right “tone” with just the right tone of Aberdeen slabs.

Your home’s landscape and hardscape are reflections of who you are, and of your one-of-a-kind personality. It’s crucial, then, that your Techo-Bloc Aberdeen slabs match up with your tastes and sense of style.

While one color may be indicative of a modern-chic and totally cool vibe, another tone may establish a sense of warmth and the comforts of traditional style. Some hues are better for creating a southwestern theme for your landscape, while others may be better suited for your Euro fantasies.

Taking the time to carefully consider your options and choosing a hue that will fit into your style of decor will make all the difference in your landscaping and hardscaping project design.

Techo-Bloc Aberdeen Tone Families

Regardless of what ideas you have for creating a theme or “vibe” for your property, you’ll find that there’s a Techo-Bloc Aberdeen color collection that will suit your individual tastes and needs. Here’s a closer look at what Techo-Bloc has to offer:

Azzurro – If cool, sophisticated, contemporary style is your thing, you’ll love the look of the Azzurro tone for Aberdeen slabs. The smooth and soft gray tones give a clean, polished and modern look to any landscape while still offering the natural appeal of true stone.
Baja Beige – The Baja Beige tone collection warms things up a bit. The combination of the sandy hues and the rugged texturing create the impression of being in the desert, the southwest, or at the beach. This creates many possibilities for establishing a gorgeous landscape that will impress your friends and families.
Olive – A subtle greenish-brown tone is the hallmark of the Olive color collection for Aberdeen slabs. It’s cool and sleek enough to be incorporated in even the most modern of designs, while still offering a naturalistic beauty that can work for traditional styles.
Rock Garden Brown – For a truly earthy tone and naturalistic appeal, we suggest working with Rock Garden Brown slabs. The rich, medium-brown coloring is warm, welcoming and appealing to all.

Mixing and Matching

Who says you have to settle for just one of the four spectacular tones offered through the Techo-Bloc Aberdeen collection? Many NJ homeowners have found that mixing and matching the different colors can add a touch of originality, visual interest and even whimsy to their properties.

The colors easily compliment one another and you’ll love the patchwork vibe created by pairing two, three, or all four of the colors together.

The effect is even more interesting when you mix and match both tones and slab shapes. We recommend talking to your supplier or your landscape designer for more inspiration in this area.

Tips for Choosing the Right Tone

So, which color (or colors) of Techo-Bloc Aberdeen slabs are right for your home? In addition to looking at the tone collections available online and checking out our descriptions of each, we recommend taking the time to visit our local showroom.

Here, you can get a better sense for what these colors look like – live and in-person. You might also consider reaching out to Techo-Bloc to request color swatches.

This will allow you to hold the tones up to different landscaping and architectural features throughout your property so that you can verify that it’s a good match.

Of course, you might also consider consulting with a landscaping designer for his or her expert opinion. Whichever tones you choose, though, we’re confident that you’ll fall in love with your Aberdeen pavers for life.

Working with Techo-Bloc Aberdeen Pavers in NJ

Have you fallen in love with Techo-Bloc Aberdeen slabs? Are you ready to choose the right tone for your landscape? If so, Braen Supply is here to help.

We have a long-standing relationship with Techo-Bloc and have acted as an authorized dealer of the brand’s products for many years. As such, we are able to provide you with a unique perspective on Aberdeen slabs and offer advice on how to choose the right tone for your property.

You can always visit our local landscaping materials showroom to talk to our experts about Aberdeen pavers and to see what they look like in-person.

Our Techo-Bloc Aberdeen slabs are available at competitive wholesale prices and can be picked up or bulk delivered to areas throughout parts of NJ & NY and limited parts of PA & CT.

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

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

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

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

Get a Professional Opinion

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

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

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

Gather Your Tools

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

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

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

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

Excavation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pour the Foundation

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

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

Establish the Setting Bed

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

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

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

Lay Down Your Pavers

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

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

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

Fill In the Joints

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

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

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

DIY or Contractor?

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

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

Working with Techo-Bloc Pavers and Slabs in NJ

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

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

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