Installing a Stone Veneer Fireplace: Cost & Suppliers

Stone Veneer Fireplace Cost Whether it’s located indoors or outdoors, a stone fireplace will always steal the show, acting as the heart and centerpiece of the space in which it’s located.

The combination of natural stone with the warm glow of the fire makes for a cozy spot to create lasting memories with loved ones.

While you may think real stone is the only way for you to achieve this atmosphere, you may be surprised to learn that stone veneer is just as attractive and inviting.

In addition to providing homeowners with a variety of options in terms of stone type, many people are drawn to this option because of the affordable stone veneer fireplace cost.

What’s more, the installation of the material is very DIY-friendly, enabling you to save even more money. It’s every homeowner’s dream come true.

If you’re like many others, though, you’re probably wary of starting up a new project without knowing what to anticipate in terms of your stone veneer fireplace cost, or if you’re truly capable of tackling the installation on your own.

Because each individual person will have their own budgetary constraints and skill sets, there’s no black-and-white answer to these questions, but that doesn’t mean that you have to be left in the dark. There are certain factors that will influence stone veneer fireplace cost, and specific steps that need to be taken in order to install one.

When you’re aware of what to expect in these areas, you can get a more accurate idea of what you’ll need to invest, where to obtain the materials you need, how to complete the project, and whether or not you’ll require the assistance of a professional.

Estimating Your Stone Veneer Fireplace Cost

There’s no set price for a stone veneer fireplace because every homeowner has their own set of needs and preferences. There are specific items, though, that affect your stone veneer fireplace cost.

When you take the time to understand what these factors are, you can get a more accurate idea about what you’ll need to invest in your project.

Materials – You’ll be able to choose from a variety of different stone veneer types, based on landscape and style of the home in which the fireplace is located, and on your own personal desires. The type of material that you choose to use will influence the overall cost of your fireplace’s makeover, as each type of stone is priced differently. The size of the stones will also make a difference. The specific installation style and the stone being used may result in more expensive install costs than originally budgeted.
Size & Scope – When calculating the cost of your stone veneer fireplace, you’ll obviously need to give some consideration to the size of the area that needs to be covered by the materials. Some fireplaces, for instance, have large chimneys along the interior wall that extend to the ceiling, whereas others do not. Some fireplaces also feature a large hearth. Based upon your preferences, you may want to apply the same matching veneer to the hearth or chimney, or utilize a different material altogether. This will impact your required investment.
Design – Here, you’ll need to think about both the design of the fireplace itself, and the design of your veneer. Many interior and exterior fireplaces are essentially one large rectangular box, but others are much more complex. Curved or rounded fireboxes, or irregularly shaped fireplaces may require more attention to detail and more stone cutting and customization. This can add onto the overall stone veneer fireplace cost. If you’re planning a particularly artistic, ornamental, or complicated pattern with your stone materials, you may also need to plan on spending a bit extra on your project.
Labor – Your stone veneer fireplace cost will also depend on the labor involved with the installation. Some homeowners prefer to tackle the project on their own. If this is the case, you’ll end up saving money on the cost to hire a professional to come in and do it for you, but you’ll need to make an investment in your own time spent. If you feel that you’d be better served by hiring a contractor to handle the job on your behalf, you’ll need to discuss to cost of labor per hour and add that to your project budget.
Supplier – It’s extremely important to take the time to choose a reliable supplier for your materials, as this will play a big role in your final stone veneer fireplace cost. In order to avoid low-grade materials or overpriced stone, you should seek out a supply company with an extensive showroom and vast inventory like Braen Supply.
Delivery – Do you have a plan for getting your materials to your project location? Third-party delivery services can be expensive and will bring up your stone veneer fireplace cost. To get the best value and ensure that the materials are transported safely, it’s smart to work with a supply company that offers bulk delivery services.

Choosing a Stone Veneer Supplier

When searching for the right supplier to install your home’s fireplace, it’s important that you keep certain things in mind. For starters, you’ll want a supplier who offers a variety of stone veneers. This will help you find one that’s suitable for your personality and home’s decor.

At Braen Supply, you’ll find a huge inventory of full and thin stone veneers as well as full and brick stone veneers. Featuring everything from fieldstone to river rock, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for you.

Secondly, you should think about your stone veneer fireplace cost. Instead, choose a direct supplier like Braen Supply that offers competitive wholesale pricing on all of its products.

Industry experience is another important factor. With more than a decade in the business, the team at Braen Supply has the knowledge to answer all of your questions and provide you with useful advice, as well as the connections to help you find an excellent contractor, as needed.

It’s also important to ask about delivery services. While veneers can be picked up from Braen Supply at your convenience, we also provide bulk delivery services throughout NJ, NY, PA, and CT.

Stop dreaming about a stunning veneer fireplace and start making plans to install one today. With just a small investment in time and money, you’ll soon have a gorgeous stone veneer fireplace that you and your family will enjoy in the many years ahead.

Thin Stone Veneer Prices: Your 2017 Guide

With the weather warming up, it’s time to start thinking about making improvements to your home’s exterior and upgrading your landscape. Taking steps to boost your property’s value doesn’t have to drain your bank account, though. As the seasons change, it’s important to make improvements to your home’s exterior and landscape.

Thin stone veneers make it possible for people to bring that natural and sophisticated elegance of stone to their homes at a fraction of the cost. So how much can you expect to spend on your upcoming veneer project, exactly?

This post will highlight the factors that will influence thin stone veneer prices in 2017 and walk you through the process of getting the most return on your initial investment.

Factors Influencing Thin Stone Veneer Prices in 2017

Thin stone veneer prices tend to vary from year to year, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t accurately predict how much you’ll need to save in order to complete your project. By understanding the variables that can influence pricing you can closely anticipate what your final cost will be. Here are a few things to consider in 2017:

Project Size and Scope – In order to create an accurate budget, you need to first determine the overall scope of your project. Are you planning on creating a thin stone veneer facade for the entire exterior of your home, or only for a a smaller section surrounding the foundation? Perhaps you’re planning to also create a matching facade for any columns or pillars outside of your home. Still others may only wish to use thin stone veneer for constructing a fireplace. The more stone veneer your require, the more you’ll need to plan on spending, but bulk quantities could impact your rates so talk to your supplier to obtain a quote before locking in your budget.
Veneer Materials – Prices may vary depending on the type of stone veneer you select. Some types of veneer may feature very intricate texturing whereas others may be more simplistic in their design. The more detailed work and skilled labor that needs to go into the engineering of the stone veneers, the more you may need to spend. Special coloring that needs to be added could also make a difference in the final cost of thin stone veneer materials.
Manufacturer – Different thin stone veneer manufacturers have different manufacturing processes which may impact pricing. It’s smart to ask questions about any specific or trademarked processes that are used in order to get a better idea about what you’ll need to spend. To ensure that you’re working with a reputable manufacturer, we recommend looking for a company that backs its materials with a lifetime warranty.
Supplier – Make sure that your thin stone veneer supplier is an authorized dealer of the materials that it sells. Not only will this ensure that its employees have the most accurate and up-to-date information about its products, but it will also guarantee that you get the lowest and most competitive market rates while being able to take advantage of any warranties.
Delivery – Many homeowners require a bulk delivery service in order to get their thin stone veneer materials to their properties. Be sure to look for an honest, safe, and reliable supplier that will also offer affordable delivery to your locale. Since gas prices are lower in 2017 than they have been in previous years, you may be able to anticipate a dip in transportation costs.

Getting the Most Value from Your Thin Stone Veneer

Even if your initial thin stone veneer prices are low, you could still end up losing out if you don’t take the time to protect your investment.

Failing to care for your veneer will detract from its projected lifespan, resulting in a lot of wasted time, money and stress. To ensure that you get the most value for your dollar spent, we suggest that you follow these tips:

Inspect – It’s wise to make a habit of routinely inspecting the exterior of your home or other areas where thin stone veneer is present. We suggest that you do this at least 2 or 3 times throughout the year. During this inspection you should look for any signs of missing or damaged stones. Although thin stone veneer is very tough and durable, strong winds, hail and prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures can cause some wear and tear. Make note of any problem areas so that they can be addressed quickly in order to prevent more significant issues from having the opportunity to arise.
Seal – Always check manufacturer specifications before applying any type of sealant to your veneer. In some cases, a specific type of sealer may be required. If the manufacturer has allowed for the use of sealer, these types of materials can be a great way to protect your investment. A properly applied sealant can prevent fading, issues with moisture and can add to the overall strength of your veneer.
Clean – The majority of thin stone veneers are manufactured from concrete. As a result, this type of “stone” is much more susceptible to damage from harsh cleaning chemicals than natural stone. You’ll need to take care, then, when washing away any stains or residue that may appear on the surface of the veneer. We suggest that you create a diluted solution of warm water and mild dish soap. Use a soft bristled brush to gently apply the solution to the problem areas and gently scrub the stone veneer. Avoid using wire bristles and never use high pressure nozzle setting or pressure washers on your veneer.
Repoint – After time, you may find that one or more of your stone veneers will need to be repointed. Fortunately, this isn’t as big of a deal as it may initially sound. In fact, the average layperson should be able to quickly repoint the veneer with confidence. To do this, you’ll simply need to fill a mortar bag with vinyl that has been infused with patching mortar. If you need to match the coloring of your existing grout you can add grout color to the mix. After fitting the bag with a medium tip you will apply a small amount of mortar to any cracks that have formed around your stones. You can also use this time to fill in any joints between stones where grout may be low and could otherwise cause pieces to fall off. Use a damp cloth to wipe away any of your grout mixture that may come into contact with the surface of the stone.

The Best Thin Stone Veneer Prices in NJ

If you’re looking for the fairest thin stone veneer prices, Braen Supply has you covered. As the leading supplier of thin stone veneers in and around NJ, we take pride in connecting customers like yourself with high quality materials at reasonable rates.

We are partnered with the biggest names in thin stone veneer manufacturing so that we can offer a wide variety of different types of stone to cater to an array of needs and desires.

The experts at Braen Supply are always ready to answer any questions you may have about our veneers and can provide you with helpful advice for your project. Our thin stone veneers can be picked up or bulk delivered to locations throughout NJ, NY, PA and CT.

How Much Does It Cost to Install Stone Veneer?

Stone Veneer Install Cost When considering whether or not to install stone veneer for your home, business or within your landscape you need to evaluate the costs. We’ve spoken with many NJ homeowners and find that most are unsure of the total cost of a stone veneer project.

Regardless of whether you plan to hire a professional for the installation on your behalf, or whether you are going to tackle it as a do-it-yourself project, there are certain factors which can affect your overall stone veneer installation cost.

In order to keep your project as budget-friendly as possible and to yield the highest return on your investment, it’s important that you learn about a few of the factors that could impact your expenses.

The Size & Scope of Your Project

The first thing you’ll need to consider when calculating your stone veneer installation cost is the actual size and scope of your project.

If you’re planning to use the material as a means of veneering a small to mid-sized indoor or outdoor fireplace, you will require far fewer materials and labor than you would if you were planning to veneer your home’s exterior. This must all be factored into length, material and labor costs that will impact your project.

Material Calculations

You’ll need to carefully measure out the dimensions of your coverage area. Once these dimensions have been calculated, you’ll need to consider the size of the veneer you’re planning to use, and what volume of stone veneer materials will be required to fill that coverage area – excluding windows and doors.

Because this can be complicated, it’s often wise to work with a stone veneer professional.

Depending on the veneer material that you choose to work with, you might require a vapor barrier in order to seal moisture out.

You’ll need mortar as a means of actually applying the stone veneer to your home’s exterior, fireplace, or other project area, and you’ll need scrapers and other tools and equipment to clean the veneer of any spillage or excess mortar.

If you’re working with a contractor these items will likely be factored into your total cost with them, however if you are planning to do the project on your own it is important to keep them in mind.

Working With a Stone Veneer Contractor

If you determine that your project is too large to complete on your own or if you’d prefer to work with a contractor you must factor that into your total cost. Although your monetary commitment may rise, you will need to dedicate less time to the project and the contractor will likely be able to complete the project quickly.

Choosing a Stone Veneer Supplier

When evaluating your stone veneer options, it’s important to consider the supplier you are using. The supplier you choose will impact your overall cost, however you shouldn’t let the total cost dictate your project.

You want to consider price secondary only to the quality of service and the materials that the supplier provides you with. You want a supplier who is happy to assist you with any questions you may have in addition to making the process as seamless as possible.

Braen Supply has been working with homeowners and contractors on stone veneer projects for more than a decade. We’re happy to talk with you about your upcoming project and to answer any questions you may have.

5 Reasons the Cost of Thin Stone Veneer is Worth It

Everyone wants a beautiful home, but that doesn’t mean we’re not cautious about the cost of the expense. If you’ve been thinking about using thin stone veneers to give your home a dream makeover, chances are that you’ve probably been crunching the numbers and conducting a cost vs. benefits analysis.

Will your investment in thin stone veneer pay off in the long run, and is it really worth it? We say yes! But you don’t just have to take our word for it. Here’s a look a just a few of the many reasons why your thin stone veneer cost is completely worth it.

1. It Boosts Curb Appeal

One of the primary reasons why homeowners choose to work with thin stone veneers is that they are exceptionally beautiful. Thin stone veneer manufacturers work diligently to design and engineer manufactured stone that appears exactly the same as the real thing – right down to the color, shape, size and texture.

The fact that the stones are manufactured means that they will all be of the same, consistent quality so that there aren’t any variables to consider. This means that you’ll have a uniformly beautiful, reliable and structurally sound exterior for your home that’s sure to attract positive attention from your friends, neighbors and passers-by.

It’s easy to choose stones that cater to your own individual tastes and sense of style. Stone never goes out of style, so your thin stone veneer will leave you completely happy with the appearance of your home for years to come.

As a result, your home’s curb appeal will be boosted and your property value will increase – both now and in the future.

2. It’s Long-Lasting

What’s the point in putting up your hard-earned money on the installation of thin stone veneers if they’re not going to meet your needs throughout the years? Fortunately, you don’t need to worry about this because veneers are designed and manufactured to last.

Manufactured stone is just as durable and reliable as natural stone. It’s able to hold up when faced with whatever Mother Nature throws its way, whether that be extreme heat and UV rays from the sun during the summer months, heavy rain or hail and even the freezing cold temperatures of a NJ winter.

Thin stone veneers aren’t prone to easily fading or becoming discolored by the elements, no is it easily scratched, chipped or scuffed. Most manufacturers are so confident in the overall quality of their thin stone veneer products that they actually offer a lifetime guarantee or warranty on them.

This means that even if something does go wrong, you won’t be required to spend even more money to remedy the issue.

3. It Improves Insulation

Here in the northeast, we’re used to dealing with extreme temperature fluctuations. It can become extremely hot during the summer and then dip into sub-zero temperatures come winter.

Thin stone veneers add value to the home by acting as an extra layer of insulation. When properly installed and maintained, your veneer can help to block out high levels of heat, strong winds and cold temperatures. This works to improve home comfort levels while also helping to lower your monthly energy bill.

4. It’s Easy to Install

A huge perk to revamping your home’s exterior with thin stone veneers is that the materials are very easy to work with, making the installation process quick and painless. Thin stone veneer is known for being very lightweight which makes it easy to lift and manipulate the pieces as needed.

They can also be adhered to areas where full stone could not. Thin stone veneer is specifically engineered to fit together with ease and to be simple to work with.

In the event that you choose to hire a contractor to handle the installation process, you can expect a faster job and less labor which, in turn, means less in the way of construction costs. Skilled do-it-yourselfers who prefer to tackle the work on their own should have no problem handling the installation work.

5. It Requires Little Maintenance

No one wants to see their investment fade away or fall apart before their eyes. One of the great things about thin stone veneers is that very little effort is required in order to maintain them.

By expending just a little bit of your time and effort you can protect your initial investment and ensure that your veneers will look and function perfectly in the many years ahead.

For best results, we recommend that you perform a visual inspection of your home’s exterior at least twice a year to make note of any crack, chips, missing units or other problem areas. Any joints that are low on grout should be filled in and any damaged veneer pieces should be promptly replaced.

It’s also a good idea to consult with manufacturer specifications to see if it’s safe for you to sealcoat your veneers and, if so, which sealant is appropriate for the job. Be sure to carefully wash the veneers with a solution of mild detergent and warm water and allow the stones to dry prior to sealing.

Bonus: It’s Environmentally Friendly

Although it may not save you any money, using thin stone veneers for your home improvement project will do wonders for saving the environment. Natural stone has been used for centuries, but that doesn’t mean that there’s an unlimited supply of materials to go around.

Thin stone veneers make it possible for home and business owners to enjoy the natural elegance of stone without using up any valuable, natural resources. The manufacturing processes used to create realistic thin stone veneers are minimal and very few resources are required.

The end result is a stunningly beautiful manufactured stone product that is indistinguishable from the real thing without leaving a carbon footprint. In addition to this, thin stone veneers are lighter in weight than natural, full stone materials. This means that less fuel is required to transport the veneers from one place to another, further benefiting the environment.

The Best Thin Stone Veneer Prices in NJ

Looking to keep your thin stone veneer cost at a minimum while still enjoying high quality materials? Braen Supply is partnered with all of the leading names in thin stone veneer manufacturing. This means that we’re able to connect customers like yourself with a wide variety of different veneers featuring a range of colors, textures and styles.

Our veneers are competitively priced so that you’re able to get the most bang for your buck. The experts at Braen Supply are happy to work by your side in order to provide advice about choosing and installing your veneers, as well as to offer valuable suggestions for aftercare and maintenance.

Since we’re so well-connected within the industry, we are also able to point you in the right direction when selecting an honest and affordable veneer contractor.

Our thin stone veneers can be picked up or bulk delivered to locations throughout NJ, NY, PA and CT. Ready to get started with your home transformation project? Give us a call today to start talking to a professional about how our thin stone veneers can benefit you.

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.

4 Super Cozy Techo-Bloc Fire Pit Ideas

It’s a peaceful, gorgeous summer evening in NJ. You and your loved ones have been spending time outdoors, barbecuing, swimming and enjoying one another’s company.

It’s been a perfect day, but now the sun is setting, and the temperature is starting to cool off. Who says that you have to go inside, though?

A growing number of NJ homeowners are discovering how valuable and versatile a Techo-Bloc fire pit can be! Read on to learn more about why you should be interested in a fire pit, and for some great ideas for introducing one to your property.

The Beauty of a Techo-Bloc Fire Pit

By providing light and warmth to your outdoor living space, a Techo-Bloc fire pit allows you to keep making memories with your family and friends well into the night. The effect of crackling firelight under the dark, starry sky creates a warm and inviting atmosphere for trading stories, singing songs, playing games, roasting hot dogs and making S’mores.

Once you’re ready to start building a fire pit, Techo-Bloc will have you covered. Techo-Bloc makes some of the best fire pit kits on the market, providing homeowners with a wide range of options in terms of size, shape, texture, color and style.

Whether you prefer something sleek, modern and with sharp edges, or something rustic and round, you’ll find the perfect fire pit to enjoy in the many years to come. The kits are easy to install and maintain, and they are designed to ensure that you and your loved ones are cozy and comfortable at all times.

The concrete materials used to build the fire pit are non-combustible and don’t retain heat. In addition to being exceptionally safe, practical and functional, the fire pits are also stunningly beautiful, emulating the look of natural stone. There’s really nothing not to love about Techo-Bloc fire pits.

4 Super Cozy Ideas for Your Techo-Bloc Fire Pit

Because you want your fire pit to create a cozy and charming environment, it’s wise to take a little bit of time to think about what your needs and personal tastes are. Ask yourself some important questions in order to get a better sense for what style you should be shooting for.

How many people will be gathering around the fire pit at one time? How frequently will you make use of the fire pit? Do you plan on cooking over the flames?

What type of seating appeals to you? Where will the fire pit be located in respect to other landscaping features?

From here, you’ll be able to lock down what’s really important and settle on a comfy, cozy design for your home. Here are a few of our favorite ideas to help provide you with some inspiration:

1. Sunken Fire Pits

We are absolutely crazy about the idea of sunken or recessed fire pits. These fire pits can be built off on their own, or can be adjacent to the rest of your outdoor living space.

You might have steps leading down to the seating area which surrounds your fire pit, or you might have your steps double as seating in the space.

Tikki torches, plants and plush cushions can help to create a truly relaxing, casual and cozy space where you and your friends and family will love to unwind and spend time together.

2. Poolside Fire Pits

After a long, fun day of splashing in the pool, your body can come to quite the shock when the sun goes down and it starts to get a little bit chilly. Many NJ homeowners choose to remedy this effect by placing beautiful fire pits beside their swimming pools and hot tubs.

Swimmers might be able to catch some of the warmth when treading water towards the edge of the pool, or might choose to climb out of the water, wrap up in a towel and snuggle with their nearest and dearest around the fire pit.

In addition to helping everyone to get warm and dry off after swimming laps, fire pits look absolutely incredible when placed near bodies of water. The effect of the dancing flames reflecting off of the water is truly magical, and will create a snug and cozy atmosphere for everyone.

3. Intimate Fire Pit Patios

In order to create a warm and intimate atmosphere, many homeowners make the decision to construct a smaller patio area, separate from the remainder of their outdoor living spaces, that is strictly dedicated to gathering around the fire pit.

Both round and rectangular fire pits work well in this type of intimate environment, and the intricate, natural beauty of the fire pit is easily complimented by Techo-Bloc pavers and other hardscaping materials.

It’s also easy to introduce your patio furnishings to this space, pulling your chairs, couches, love seats and benches close to the fire where you can spend time with your family and friends. This is a great setting for having a glass of wine or hot cider and just enjoying one another’s company.

4. Fire Pits with Tiered Seating

This is a fabulous idea for any homeowner who regularly entertains larger groups of people. Whether you’ve got a robust family or a teenager with a lot of friends, you need to have plenty of seating around your fire pit in order for everyone to enjoy their time together.

This approach plays on tiered seating, almost like what you’d see in a stadium or amphitheater setting. Here, you can use Techo-Bloc wall blocks and similar hardscaping materials to create multiple rows of “stone” benches around the fire pit.

For a round fire pit, the seating can be curved and arranged into a semicircle, whereas a rectangular fire pit might lend itself to straight bench seating. Because the fire pit then becomes the focal point of the entire area, you can situate a storyteller or musician in this space to entertain your loved ones or lead everyone in song.

You can build up the rows as high as you like, establishing a back row back rest that also doubles as a retaining wall for your property. Because it can also act as a retaining wall, this is a smart idea for sloped or hilly properties as well.

Installing Techo-Bloc Fire Pits in NJ

Braen Supply is the leading supplier of Techo-Bloc products – including high quality fire pits- in all of NJ and its surrounding areas. We are partnered with Techo-Bloc as authorized dealers for their brand.

This prestigious honor means that we’re able to provide our customers with access to all of Techo-Bloc’s incredible fire pits, including its newest releases. We also have the most accurate and up-to-date information about product installation, care and maintenance.

On top of everything else, we are able to offer the lowest and most competitive industry prices. Feel free to visit our showroom to see for yourself how beautiful Techo-Bloc’s fire pits really are.

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

4 Budget-Friendly Designs For Your Outdoor Patio Fireplace

Are you planning on giving your outdoor living space a bit of a facelift this season? While you absolutely love spending time with your loved ones out on the patio, you may feel like there’s something missing.

For many NJ homeowners, the introduction of an outdoor fireplace to their patio living spaces is the perfect way to add to the beauty, value and functionality of the area – all on an affordable budget.

So how can you bring the sophistication and elegance of a fireplace to your outdoor living space? Read on for inspirational ideas.

Benefits of Outdoor Patio Fireplaces

Before proceeding, it’s important to consider why you might want to install an outdoor fireplace, to begin with. These stunning fire features are capable of completely transforming your existing space and can benefit you and your household in a number of ways. Here’s a look at several of the many advantages of having an outdoor fireplace of your very own:

Beauty

For starters, an outdoor fireplace adds a significant amount of beauty and elegance to any patio or other outdoor living space. Fireplaces may be constructed from natural stone, brick, veneers, or concrete that has been manufactured to look just like real stone.

Regardless of the material you choose to work with, you’ll find that the fireplace is able to bring something luxurious to your space. The mere presence of the fireplace will add to the visual appeal and overall esthetic of your entire patio area, setting the tone for beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.

Value

Today’s homebuyers are looking for more than just four walls and a roof. Instead, NJ residents want homes that allow them to get the most out of life. This often means providing a fully functional and attractive outdoor living space that can be used throughout the years.

Making the decision to install a fireplace into your outdoor living space will not only increase your perceived value of the area but will also boost the dollar value of your home should you decide to sell in the future.

Inspiration

Since the dawn of time, men have been fascinated by the dancing flames and the warm glow of a fire. Installing an outdoor fireplace in your patio space can serve as a point of creative inspiration that will captivate your imagination and leave you feeling excited and passionate about life.

Charm

We all love the idea of establishing a cozy and relaxing outdoor living space where we can gather with our friends and loved ones.

Beyond a traditional patio dining experience, a growing number of NJ homeowners are using fireplaces as the focal point of warm, charming and inviting outdoor living rooms. This establishes an area that is conducive to sharing stories, playing games and creating memories.

Lengthen the Outdoor Season

One of the best things about having an outdoor fireplace is that you no longer have to be limited by the changing seasons.

Even when the weather begins to cool off during the crisp, fall months, your fireplace will still be able to provide you with the warmth and light you need to stay comfortable and enjoy the great outdoors after the summer has ended.

Inspirational Ideas for an Outdoor Patio Fireplace

Now that you’re excited about the idea of bringing an outdoor fireplace to your patio area, it’s time to explore your options. How can you make sure that your fireplace will look beautiful within the scope of your outdoor living space without breaking the bank? The following four ideas will serve as your inspiration.

1. Double Up

One smart way to stretch your dollar further when designing a patio space with a fireplace is to actually have the fireplace serve two functions in one. First, it will act as the focal point of your outdoor living room.

The fireplace can be situated in such a way that it’s easy to arrange furniture around the hearth and enjoy conversation in front of the open flames. By positioning the fireplace between two distinct areas of your outdoor living space, though, you can actually get even more out of it.

Some homeowners use their fireplaces as a “wall” or division that creates a physical separation and boundary between an outdoor living room and a dining area, kitchen, garden or other space.

2. Make a Splash

Many NJ homeowners love going for a swim during the hot, summer months. If you’re like many other people, you may start to get cold as the day goes on.

Although you want to keep enjoying the waters of the swimming pool, it may become too chilly to remain comfortable. Instead of shelling out the big bucks to heat your swimming pool, paying for electric outdoor heaters or just abandoning your swimming area altogether, why not install a gorgeous outdoor fireplace on or near the swimming pool deck?

The fire will add a great deal of warmth, light and comfort to swimmers and the flames will create dazzling patterns on the surface of the water.

3. Share a Wall

Some NJ homeowners struggle with the concept of incorporating a fireplace into their outdoor living space designs because they feel that they don’t have enough room to accommodate such a feature. This can create budgeting problems when they feel as though they must expand the size of their patio or outdoor living rooms in order to make room.

Fortunately, this isn’t necessarily the case. Many homeowners have found that they can build attractive and sophisticated outdoor fireplaces that actually share a wall with the exterior of their homes. A flush fireplace allows you to enjoy gathering around a fire without taking up any of your precious space.

At the same time, the presence of the fireplace actually makes the entire area look and feel larger. Make sure that you check with local zoning laws and regulations before building a fireplace flush with your home’s exterior walls.

4. Get Cookin’

One of the best ways to enjoy the beauty and functionality of an outdoor fireplace and to maximize your budget is to bring the fireplace into or near the outdoor kitchen.

Although many of us use fireplaces for warmth, light and aesthetics, we tend to forget the fire can also be used for cooking up something good to eat! You can your loved ones can create priceless and long-lasting memories of grilling out over the open flames together.

You might even consider choosing an outdoor fireplace with a built-in pizza oven, stove or another method for cooking. You won’t regret it!

Installing an Outdoor Patio Fireplace in NJ

Braen Supply is the leading supplier of outdoor patio fireplaces in NJ and its surrounding areas. We work with the leading stone and concrete manufacturers to offer the most sophisticated and affordable outdoor patio fireplace kits on the market.

Our team is passionate about helping clients like you to create stunning outdoor living spaces and can provide you with tips, ideas and inspiration for bringing an incredible fireplace to your patio.

Our materials 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.

Agricultural Lime: Prices, Uses & Questions

When the acidity levels of soil become too high, vegetation suffers. This can occur for a number of different reasons including acidic rain, the use of certain fertilizers or pesticides, frequent crop cycles, etc.

Fortunately, you don’t need to completely replace the soil in your field, garden or lawn in order to improve growing conditions.

The simplest, most affordable and most effective means of restoring proper pH levels within your soil is by utilizing agricultural lime (or simply, aglime).

If you’ve never applied aglime before, you may have some questions and concerns about how the material works, what it actually is, best practices for its purchase and application and what you should expect to pay.

To walk our customers through the process of choosing and using aglime, we’ve dedicated this post to answering some of the most frequently asked liming questions.

What is agricultural lime?

Aglime is essentially just limestone or dolomite that has been ground, washed and screened for use as a soil treatment. The chemical makeup of the aglime makes it possible for essential minerals like calcium and magnesium to be reintroduced into the ground and for pH levels to be restored to neutral. At the same time, the pulverized limestone makes it easier for water to penetrate highly acidic soil and improves a plant’s ability to absorb nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium.

What types of agricultural lime are available?

If you’ve decided to use aglime to improve the soil conditions throughout your property, you’ve probably noticed that you have several different options. You’ll need to be aware of the specifications of each to ensure that you select the right material for your needs.

Calcitic Lime – Calcitic lime is just another name for regular aglime that has been made solely from crushed limestone. The material’s high calcium content is what allows it to neutralize acidity and improve growing conditions.
Dolomitic Lime – As the name implies, dolomitic lime is manufactured from pulverized dolomite. Although dolomite is very similar to limestone and is equally as effective in raising soil pH levels, it should be noted that dolomite offers an excellent supply of magnesium in addition to calcium. This is really only important in fields and gardens where magnesium levels are found to be low.
Dry Lime – Dry lime is simply the ground limestone or dolomite in its pure, crushed form. When considering using dry lime, you should keep in mind that the smaller the particle size, the faster the reaction with the soil will occur.
Liquid Lime – Liquid lime is comprised of 50% dry aglime and 50% water. Some people prefer to use liquid lime because it tends to offer faster results and it’s also easier to spread it more uniformly across large areas than dry lime. The downside is that more frequent applications are generally required.

How should agricultural lime be applied?

In order to get the most benefit from your aglime, you’ll need to keep a few important items in mind throughout the application process:Volume Required – Different plants thrive in soils with varying pH levels. Calculating how much aglime will be required to reach these specific pH levels can be quite complicated, so it’s advisable that you work with a liming professional to determine how much to apply to your field, lawn, or garden.

Even Application – In order to get the best results, it’s very important that you take the time to carefully spread lime uniformly throughout your coverage area. Be sure that you don’t overlook any corners and that you don’t complete double applications in one or more areas. Slight overlapping is generally acceptable as a practice for ensuring evenness of spread. Avoid applying aglime when winds are more that 10mph as it can scatter the materials and reduce uniformity.

Tillage – Whenever it’s possible, your liming materials should be worked or tilled into this soil. Agricultural lime that’s only applied to the surface of the ground won’t react as quickly. This is because when lime is actually worked into the earth, a larger portion of the aglime’s surface area will be exposed to the soil. Tilling the aglime also minimizes the risk of losing any liming materials to wind or the elements.

Necessary Tools/Equipment – When tilling lime, it’s recommended that the lime be disked in at least twice before being plowed under for maximum distribution. Without the right equipment, you could end up with uneven spread. Those working with liquid lime will also need to make considerations for transporting water to the desired coverage area and spraying.

How quickly does agricultural lime work?

Most users are anxious to see a positive improvement in the pH of their soil, but it’s important to keep in mind that several factors will come into play as the aglime begins to do its work. The first thing to note is that water is required for lime to react with the soil.

If the earth is dry, you can expect it to take longer to get measurable results. Because of this, it’s smart to apply lime well before your next growing season. If your soil has an extremely low pH level, you will probably be able to see results more quickly, although it will still take time for the soil to be fully neutralized.

The percentage of calcium present in the aglime also makes a difference with regard to how long the liming process will take.

Generally speaking, aglime with a high calcium carbonate equivalent (CCE) will be able to reduce acidity levels more quickly than those with a lower CCE. Finally, finer liming particles are more efficient than course materials.

How frequently should agricultural lime be applied?

In addition to measuring pH levels which will reveal the active acidity of the soil, it’s also important to consider the cation exchange capacity (CEC) of the earth. The CEC measures both the active and reserve acidity of the soil. If a soil has a low CEC it will actually have less total acidity that soils with a high CEC, even if the pH is the same.

Even though less agricultural lime is required to correct soil with a low CEC, it may need annual applications to maintain pH levels.

Soil with a high CEC on the other hand might initially need a larger application of liming materials, but won’t likely need a repeat application for several years. The level of production and chemicals introduced to the soil should also be considered when planning for how frequently liming must occur.

Can agricultural lime be used with other chemicals?

Depending on your needs, it may be important for you to understand how aglime works with:

Fertilizers – Many fertilizers contribute to the increase in a soil’s acidity levels. Fertilizers can also cause nutrients to be more quickly depleted from the earth. As a result, agricultural lime may need to be applied more often in fields and gardens where fertilizers are used.
Herbicides – Be mindful of the fact that some herbicides are dependent on a soil’s pH levels and could be impacted by the reaction with the liming material that you use.

Where can I get the best prices on agricultural lime?

When purchasing agricultural lime, you should understand that the “best” price isn’t necessarily the same thing as the “cheapest” product.

While you want to keep your costs at a minimum, you also don’t want to sacrifice the quality of the materials that you introduce to your soil. Purchasing from an online or street-corner seller could get you the lowest price, but you have no guarantee about where the materials came from or what its CCE is.

You may also be tempted to buy from a major retailer that you feel you can trust, but these chain stores don’t manufacture their own liming materials and will be equally unable to answer important questions about the product. At the same time, their prices will likely be higher, as they must resell the aglime for a profit.

Purchasing your agricultural lime from a direct supplier like Braen Stone is the smartest thing you can do. We own and operate our own quarries, providing us with essential information about the quality and chemical makeup of your liming materials.

We offer competitive wholesale pricing to our customers and can work with you to calculate your liming needs. Our aglime is available for pickup or bulk delivery throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC and PA.