Which Rock Salt Doesn’t Track Indoors?

Which Rock Salt Doesn't Track Indoors? Any home or business owner that lives in an area prone to freezing temperatures knows that rock salt is a “must have” item throughout the winter months.

Left untreated, sidewalks, parking lots, roadways and other surfaces can develop a layer of ice that will yield hazardous conditions.

Rock salt and other de-icers can improve traction while also lowering the freezing temperature of water, ensuring that your property is safer for foot and vehicular traffic.

One problem that people have with these products, though, comes when visitors track rock salt indoors.

This can cause an unsightly film across flooring and can even cause damage to carpets, rugs, tile and similar materials.

The good news is that there are ice melting products that are designed to minimize tracking while still working efficiently and effectively.

Here are a few tips for keeping your rock salt outdoors where it belongs.

Know Your Temperature Needs

There’s a rock salt to suit every need, whether for environments regularly exposed to extreme cold, or those with milder winter temperatures. Here in the northeastern states, temperatures frequently drop below the freezing point, making exothermic ice melts the best option.

These types of de-icers release heat to more quickly break up ice and prevent future formations. These properties mean that you’ll need to use less material in order to achieve the desired result. Using a slower-acting rock salt or one that doesn’t work in very low temperatures might result in overuse which will increase the likelihood of tracking rock salt indoors.

Product Composition

When buying rock salt, always take a look at the composition of the product you’re intending to use. While many types of ice melting materials tend to dry to a powdery white residue, you’ll find that both magnesium chloride and calcium chloride tend to leave a clear brine solution.

As a result, rock salt that is comprised of these naturally occurring chlorides is less likely to be tracked, and is less noticeable in appearance.

Proper Application Techniques

One of the biggest mistakes that people make when applying rock salt is using too much. The idea is that if a little bit of ice melt can help, spreading a lot of it must be even better. In reality, this isn’t the case. According to the senior marketing manager for The Dow Chemical Company, “Excessive application rates do not improve performance.”

In fact, all of that over-application will cause you to run out of the product faster, spend more money, and open up the door to allow more rock salt to be tracked indoors.

To avoid spreading too much ice melt, it’s important to carefully read manufacturer instructions. This will let you know how much material should be spread per a given area, and the best methods for spreading the rock salt evenly.

In addition to this, it’s important to apply the material only to the surface of a walkway, driveway or parking lot. When spread on top of snow, it will be ineffective and will only create a mess and the potential for tracking when the weather warms up.

Using Colored Pellets

To make sure that you’re over applying rock salt to your surfaces, it’s a good idea to consider utilizing colored ice melting products. This makes it easier to see where the product has been spread and allows you to use the rock salt with increased accuracy.

Work With the Professionals

If you have any doubts about which type of ice melt to purchase, it’s smart to discuss your options with an industry professional. This is also a good idea for those who need their rock salt to serve multiple functions.

Perhaps you want to find a material that will be safe for pets in addition to preventing others from tracking rock salt indoors. An expert, like those here at Braen Supply, will be familiar with many different products and will have the ability to quickly point you in the right direction.

You’ll find that our team at Braen Supply is passionate about ensuring that all of your needs are met – all winter long. We can offer valuable advice and provide bulk delivery services to your location at a competitive price. Talk to us today about which rock salt is best for you, and feel free to ask about having your bulk order delivered throughout NJ, NY, PA and CT.

The Benefits of Bagged Rock Salt

When the weather out The Benefits of Bagged Rock Salt side is snowy and cold, the prospect of icy roads, driveways, sidewalks and parking lots are not safe. Poor traction can lead to automobile accidents and slip-and-fall incidents, both compromising your safety.

The most cost-efficient means of resolving these issues is to apply rock salt and other ice melting materials to the surfaces throughout your property.

Whether you’re a business owner or a homeowner, though, you may be wondering if you should handle this on your own or if you should hire a service to spread the rock salt for you.

While large-scale municipalities might benefit from this type of service, the majority of people would be better served to invest in their own supply of bagged rock salt.

To further emphasize this point, take a look at some of the many reasons why you should consider personally caring for your property this winter, and how to get the most from your bagged rock salt.

Have Rock Salt On Hand When You Need It

When the temperatures dip below freezing and precipitation is expected, rock salt spreading services will be in high demand. Unfortunately for homeowners and small-to-midsized businesses, the major municipalities, campuses, and corporations will be the top priority.

This could leave you scrambling before the big storm hits and without the peace of mind that your property will be tended to on-time.

Those who have their own stockpile of bagged rock salt, on the other hand, will have the ability to apply the ice melt on an as-needed basis, without ever having to rely on someone else. Even if the weather turns unpredictable, you’ll be prepared to handle anything that Mother Nature throws your way.

Keep Your Costs As Low As Possible

Bagged rock salt can last through multiple storms and you may not need as much of the material as you might initially imagine. By taking the time to talk to an expert at your rock salt supply store, you can accurately estimate how much de-icer you’ll need to cover your property, ensuring that you only end up purchasing what you require.

Investing in just a few bags or containers of the product will be far less expensive than paying a specialized service to come to your door. What’s more, spreading rock salt is a simple task that won’t take up much of your time.

Enjoy the Convenience of Delivery

Many people appreciate the notion of spending less money by purchasing and applying bagged rock salt on their own, but they may not be sold on the idea of having to venture out into the cold in order to pick up the ice melt.

If this is the case, you can speak with a representative of your supply company to talk about having the product of your choice delivered by the pallet, right to your door.

Maintain Control Over Product Types

One of the biggest disadvantages of hiring a third-party service to spread rock salt on your behalf is that you typically won’t have any say in the type of de-icer that is spread throughout your property. If you have children or animals that may be exposed to the ice melt, you may have have concerns about product safety.

Other property owners want the assurance that an environmentally-friendly material is being used. Unless you’re purchasing your own bagged rock salt, you may not get the luxury of exercising that level of control.

Planning Ahead With Bagged Rock Salt

Freezing temperatures and precipitation don’t have be be a source of stress throughout the winter months. Picking up or ordering your bagged rock salt for bulk delivery will help you to stay in control throughout the season and allow you to save money in the process.

Braen Supply offers a wide variety of rock salt and ice melting products so that you can purchase exactly what you need at the most competitive rates on the market. Our team of experts will help you to select the material that’s right for you. Bagged rock salt is available for pickup, or can be bulk delivered by the pallet to locations throughout NJ, NY, PA and CT.

The Largest Rock Salt Distributors

The Largest Rock Salt Distributors If anything can be learned from the winter we had last year, it’s that it’s always wise to be ready with the tools that are needed to remain safe when the temperatures drop.

Because the cold dragged on longer than expected, suppliers began to run out of rock salt and consumers suffered.

In order to avoid getting stuck in a bind this year, it’s smart to find a rock salt distributor that can help you stock up in advance. To get you into gear, here’s some helpful information on how to choose rock salt distributors, and how to prepare for another extensive winter.

Characteristics of the Best Rock Salt Distributors

As you start to make plans for the winter season, it’s important that you’re able to pick out the best rock salt distributors from the rest. Here’s what you should be looking for:

Experienced, Professional Staff – Because everyone has their own diverse ice melting requirements, it’s extremely important that your distributor is able to listen to your needs and offer up advice on which products will work best for you. This means turning to a business that employs only the most seasoned professionals – a team of industry experts who are passionate about connecting users with their ideal rock salt.
Carries a Large Inventory of Ice Melt – Not only do the biggest rock salt distributors have plenty of rock salt on hand to sell to its customers, but they also have a variety of different types of rock salt and ice melting materials. You should be able to select from a supply of rock salt that works in multiple types of climates and that suit a number of different functions. In addition to this, you should have the option to choose how to purchase your rock salt, whether by the bag, pallet, or truckload.
Offers Competitive Pricing – When demand for rock salt is high, many distribution companies will inflate the price of the products that they sell in order to make a healthy profit. A reputable supplier, on the other hand, will always take pride in offering its clientele the fairest pricing possible.
Provides Bulk Delivery Services – Venturing out in the winter to pick up a truckload of ice melt can be a huge burden. Be on the lookout for rock salt distributors who can bulk deliver the materials to your location.

Tips for Using and Storing Rock Salt

Good rock salt distributors will have the knowledge to offer valuable advice that will enable you to get the most out of your rock salt and other ice melting products.

Here’s a quick look at some of the most useful tips, but be sure to talk to a trusted distributor for more specific and detailed information:

Buy Early – Waiting to purchase rock salt until the first big winter storm of the season is too late. Harsh weather conditions will trigger a surge in demand for various de-icing products, resulting in a short supply and increased difficulty in tracking down rock salt. It’s best to anticipate your seasonal needs during the autumn months and purchase your materials well in advance. Talking to a professional can help you calculate how much rock salt you should stock up on.
Store Properly – Once you have your supply of ice melt, you’ll need to follow proper storage techniques in order to keep it in good condition. Moisture is the number one enemy of rock salt. Be sure to keep your rock salt in an area that is sealed off from water, runoff and other sources of moisture. Storage conditions should also be maintained at or above 20 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid clumping.
Apply Smart – Don’t make the mistake of over-applying your rock salt. Excessive amounts of ice melt won’t improve performance, but will deplete your stockpile and cause you to waste money.
Develop Strong Relationships – Never underestimate the value of developing a solid relationship with trusted rock salt distributors. This is advantageous to you as you’ll be able to seek out trusted advice from your supplier about various products and application techniques. You may also find that when you’re on friendly terms with a distributor, it’s easier to track down scarce rock salt materials during a shortage.

There’s no reason for you run out of rock salt this coming season. By working with the best rock salt distributors and planning ahead, you’ll be prepared no matter what happens.

Photo courtesy of Victoria Cavaliere | Reuters. (Eduardo Munoz Reuters)

Rock Salt for Sale in Bulk

Rock Salt for Sale in Bulk Whenever an unexpected storm is about to hit, people rush out to purchase supplies. When it comes to planning for the winter season, however, too many fail to make the necessary preparations.

Even though we know that the colder months will bring snow and ice, people have a tendency to assume that rock salt and other ice melting materials will be available in their hour of need.

As evidenced by last year’s rock salt shortage, this is not the case. Businesses, schools, churches, municipalities and other organizations need to be ready for another cold winter, and that means stocking up on rock salt in bulk.

Doing so will ensure that you’re ready to handle whatever Old Man Winter throws our way and will enable you to save a significant amount of money.

The Importance of Being Prepared

Generally, we think of “winter” as including the months of mid-to-late November through the end of February. During especially harsh seasons, however, the freezing temperatures may drag on much longer than expected. In situations like these, it’s extremely important to have an ample supply of rock salt on hand.

Many distribution and supply companies only anticipate the needs of a “typical” winter. This is what happened last year. Because we experienced frigid conditions well into what should have been spring, these suppliers ran short on their stock of rock salt and everyone was impacted by the deficit.

Rock salt was very difficult to come by, and when it could be located the prices were heavily inflated. Without taking the time to plan ahead and purchase rock salt in bulk before the cold arrives, you could be setting yourself up to face these same problems again this year.

Buying Rock Salt in Bulk

Regardless of what your specific needs are, you won’t have a problem being able to purchase the perfect rock salt in bulk – as long as you do so in advance. Those who prepare early on in the game will have their pick of a wide variety of different ice melting solutions.

Many organizations like schools, daycare facilities, and churches like to work with rock salt that is specially formulated to be safe for use around children while still being highly effective.

Cities and businesses may be looking for materials that have been designed to minimize any negative environmental impact and that won’t cause harm to surrounding vegetation.

Still others may have a vested interest in finding a product that will reduce tracking and damages to indoor flooring. There are ice melting products to serve virtually any need, and all can be purchased in bulk.

Depending on the size of your property and your exact requirements, you should buy rock salt by the pallet or by the truckload.

Proper Storage

There’s little point in buying rock salt in bulk if your storage techniques will cause the materials to become damaged. Too many people make the mistake of believing that they can simply toss rock salt in the corner of a shed or garage, but you may want to assess these facilities before doing so. Water and moisture can wreak serious havoc on de-icers.

If the structure in which you’re planning to store your rock salt is not properly sealed and is prone to leaks or runoff water, you’ll need to either address these issues or find another location.

Bags of rock salt can often be well-preserved inside of unused waste cans and sealed by a lid. Large storage bins may be another solution.

Choosing a Rock Salt Supplier

Before buying rock salt in bulk, it’s wise to learn more about your prospective suppliers. You need to give your business to a company that offers a variety of ice melting products at fair and competitive rates.

You’ll find that many of the national chain retailers will typically sell limited brands of rock salt by the bag. Because people know that these types of stores will sell rock salt, they will frequent these retailers throughout the winter.

This means that big box stores are the most likely to sell out of supplies first.

In addition to running out of products, stores like these generally don’t offer bulk delivery services. The smartest option is to buy from a direct supplier like Braen Supply that offers a variety of ice melters, affordable products, and bulk delivery services throughout your local area.

We have everything you need to keep your property safe throughout the winter. Braen Supply bulk delivers rock salt throughout NJ, NY, PA and CT.

Photo courtesy of NCDOT.

Rock Salt Prices: Bags vs. Pallets vs. Truckloads

Rock Salt Prices: Bags vs. Pallets vs. Truckloads Throughout the winter season, everyone from homeowners to businesses rely on rock salt to keep their properties safe and clear of ice.

Different entities will have different requirements for their ice melting products, but all will have the same concerns about pricing.

How much is the material actually going to cost, and what’s the smartest way to go about getting the best rock salt prices? Ultimately, it all depends on how you purchase the materials.

Typically, rock salt can be purchased by the bag, the pallet or the truckload – which is the right choice for you? This guide will break down the instances in which you might purchase ice melt by the bag, pallet or truckload, and the benefits and considerations associated with each.

Bagged Rock Salt

Most homeowners elect to purchase rock salt by the bag during the winter months. Because smaller lengths of driveway and front walks will need to be covered, purchasing a large bulk supply will not be the most cost effective option.

Benefits – Bagged rock salt is quite easy for homeowners to come by, lift, apply and store – even within a finite storage space. A variety of different ice melting products are available by the bag, serving a range of needs including pet and child safety and environmental friendliness.
Considerations – Because homeowners will generally need only a few bags of rock salt per season, you will need to visit your supplier and pick the materials up on your own rather than depend on a delivery service.

Rock Salt by the Pallet

Those who have larger properties to consider than the typical home may find that they get the best rock salt prices by choosing to purchase their de-icing materials by the pallet. Generally speaking, this is the most economical option for local business owners, daycare centers, churches and other organizations with mid-sized parking lots and walkways.

Benefits – Instead of being required to pick up and transport dozens of bags of rock salt back to your location, purchasing by the pallet enables you to have numerous bags (typically between 49-55 per pallet) delivered to you all at once. So long as the pallet is stored in a dry and temperature-controlled environment, the bags of rock salt can be stored more conveniently than by the individual bag.
Considerations – Depending on the size of your property, you may need to purchase multiple pallets to cover your winter needs. In order to get the best rock salt prices, though, it’s important to carefully plan out how many pallets you will require, as you may find that a truckload would be more economical.

Rock Salt by the Truckload

Large-scale needs call for a large-scale rock salt purchase and delivery methods. Corporations, hospitals, schools, and universities with big campuses will certainly enjoy the best rock salt prices when buying by the truckload. Other entities who should think about going this route include suppliers, salt spreaders and municipalities.

Benefits – Instead of having multiple pallets delivered to your property throughout the winter, you can stock up all at once by ordering a truckload of ice melt, which generally consists of 16-18 pallets. This will ensure that you’re well prepared at the beginning of the season and won’t need to worry about rock salt shortages.
Considerations – When you have such a big supply of rock salt on hand, it’s important that you protect its integrity by maintaining excellent storage conditions. You’ll need a facility large enough to house large quantities of rock salt, and secure against moisture and extreme cold.

Calculating Your Need

Depending on the brand, the rock salt that you choose to use for your property will come with manufacturer’s instructions, specifying exactly how much of the material should be spread per square foot or per acre.

It’s smart to measure out the area that will need protection against ice in order to calculate how many pounds or tons of ice melt you’ll need.

It’s also in your best interest to speak with an industry expert when calculating your needs. Seasoned professionals will be able to help you estimate how many applications will need to be made throughout the season and to discuss how long the effects of your rock salt will last.

Final Thoughts

Getting the best rock salt prices this winter season will largely depend on your ability to plan for your specific needs. As a homeowner, ordering ice melting products by the truckload would likely be quite excessive, but it would be foolish for a large business owner to attempt to meet their property’s needs by buying numerous bags of rock salt.

It’s only by working with a trusted professional to calculate how much rock salt you’re likely to require that you can get the most bang for your buck.

Photo courtesy of Matt Belanger.

Is There a Difference Between Rock Salt and Ice Melt?

Rock Salt Ice Melt During the winter months, homeowners are often advised to stock up on plenty of rock salt or ice melt in order to eliminate slippery surfaces and protect their properties.

While people assume that “ice melt” is an umbrella term for any product used to melt ice, we are frequently asked by our customers about the differences between rock salt and ice melt.

After working with thousands of homeowners and businesses during or decade in the business we’ve learned the ins and outs of the rock salt and ice melt world.

Our team of rock salt experts have broken down everything you need to know about rock salt and ice melt to ensure you have a great winter season.

Rock Salt

For years, Halite (commonly referred to as rock salt) has been the “go to” material for melting ice throughout the winter. This effective material is the mineral form of sodium chloride.

Rock salt works by penetrating icy surfaces and forming a solution of salt and water known as a brine. Because brine has a lower freezing point than water, the ice will begin to melt, and will be prevented from forming again in the future, so long as ample rock salt is present.

Rock salt usually contains grit and other bits of gravel that are meant to help gain traction whether it is on a roadway, walkway, driveway or stairs. That is where the word rock in rock salt comes from.

The Pros of Rock Salt

Rock salt is one of the most affordable methods for melting ice. Except in times of extreme shortages, rock salt is also widely available, making it easy for home and business owners alike to locate and purchase the material when they need it. Rock salt will effectively keep surfaces free of ice in temperatures down to 25 degrees Fahrenheit, 7 degrees lower than the freezing point.

Considerations

Although most people are familiar with rock salt and its effectiveness at lowering the freezing point of water, many don’t realize that other considerations should be made prior to its use. First, rock salt can actually cause harm to plant life. If the surface that you’re planning to coat with rock salt is located near highly vegetated areas, you may want to consider an environmentally and plant-safe alternative.

Pet owners should also be aware that rock salt can be dangerous when animals are exposed to it. Should rock salt become stuck between the pads of a dog or cat’s paws, it could cause burning and irritation, and if ingested could lead to gastrointestinal issues. Seek out a pet-friendly de-icer to avoid problems like these.

Finally, be advised that in areas where temperatures frequently drop below 25 degrees Fahrenheit, it may be in your best interest to go with an ice melt that is effective at lower temperatures.

Ice Melt

There are a number of different varieties of ice melt but they’re primarily comprised of calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, sodium chloride and potassium chloride. Of these, calcium chloride is generally accepted as the most effective.

The Pros of Ice Melt

Many ice melting products – especially those varieties which include calcium chloride – can lower the freezing temperature of ice in extremely cold temperatures. You may find products that are able to work down to -25 degrees Fahrenheit. This is because a number of ice melts are engineered not only to form a brine, but also to generate heat.

This not only makes the product more effective, but also faster acting. In addition to this, you’ll find a number of types of ice melts, all of which serve distinct purposes. Some are environmentally friendly, some are designed to be safe for children, some have been approved as pet-friendly, and some that do all three.

Considerations

It’s important to use care when purchasing ice melting products. Just because a bag of ice melt features a picture of a child playing with a puppy on the front doesn’t necessarily guarantee that it is safe for children or pets. Be sure to read the labels before making a purchase. In order to be truly pet-friendly, ice melt must be coated with Calcium Magnesium Acetate (CMA).

Choosing Between Rock Salt and Ice Melt

The material that you choose to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property against icy conditions will depend on your own specific set of needs. Those with only the most basic of requirements may benefit from traditional rock salt.

Home and business owners with special considerations for plants, children and pets, on the other hand, should take a look at ice melters designed to address these needs. Be sure to also take your local climate under consideration when making your selection. Should you have any doubt in your mind, be sure to speak with an expert about what product is right for your property.

Landscape Supplies in NJ: The Online Guide

Landscape Supplies in NJ As a homeowner, you know how much thought and consideration needs to be given to properly maintaining your property. Because your landscape is the first thing that people notice about your home, it’s especially important that it gives off a good impression and is well manicured at all times.

In order for you to achieve these goals, it’s imperative that you’re well-educated on good landscaping design and care and that you have all of the necessary tools and equipment.

Although there are a growing number of places to go to find landscape supplies in NJ, there are a very limited number of all-inclusive suppliers that are able to provide you with everything you need – from tools to expert advice and everything in-between.

To ensure that you and your property are well taken care of, here’s a look at what supplies you’ll need and what you should expect from an excellent supply company.

Important Landscaping Supplies

Crushed Stone Aggregate -For homeowners who are intending to install a new driveway, walkway or patio, a crushed stone aggregate is essential as a base material. Many property owners also choose to use crushed rock and gravel as a loose-fill option for surfaces like these. In the case of crushed stone surfaces, it’s wise to always keep some extra material on hand. In order to avoid empty patches or potholes, you’ll need to occasionally introduce new aggregate to the surface.
Decorative Stone -There are many different types of decorative stone that can be used throughout the landscape. These give a splash of color and personality to your property. You might utilize brick chips or lava rocks in and around planters or trees to accentuate your vegetation, or river rocks of various sizes to construct a gorgeous dry river bed.
Pavers – Pavers are among the most popular landscape supplies in NJ. These beautiful paving stones can be used to build distinctive front drives, paths and walkways, patios, and more.
Outdoor Living Supplies – In order for you to truly enjoy your landscape and hardscape, you’ll be in need of certain supplies that will enhance your outdoor living experience. Many homeowners are very interested in purchasing outdoor grills, fireplaces, and refrigerators so that meals can be shared with loved ones without having to abandon the fresh air during the warmer months. To beautify your property, you’ll also want to find decorative planting pots for your prized flowers. And to prevent unsightly air conditioners and generators from detracting from the look of your landscape, utility covers are a must.
Hardware & Other Landscaping Supplies – To complete your project and care for your landscape, you’ll also require other materials. It’s important to have tools on hand like shovels, hammers, plastic piping, landscape fabric, etc. For proper maintenance and care, you’ll want to look for supplies intended for cleaning and sealing pavers and stone, fertilizers, and a reliable rock salt to protect hardscapes during the winter.

Supplier Qualifications

Landscaping Supplies in NJ Choosing a company that’s able to provide you with quality landscape supplies in NJ is easier than you might think.

Simply put, you should be looking for experience, inventory and price.

It’s important to work with a seasoned supply business that employs a team of staff who are familiar with the industry and are knowledgeable about the projects that you may need help with.

You’ll also want to find out what type of landscaping supply inventory the company maintains.

There are few things more frustrating than being required to visit numerous supply stores just to obtain all the materials that you need. A good supplier will have a wide range of materials so that you can get it all in one place.

Finally, you want a supplier that offers fair and competitive wholesale pricing so that you can maintain your landscape on a budget you can afford.

Where to Buy Landscape Supplies in NJ

There’s no better place to pick up all of your landscape supplies in NJ than at Braen Supply. After more than a decade in business, we’ve got all of the knowledge and expertise required to help you make decisions about which supplies, tools, and equipment will best serve your needs.

We offer our customers a massive inventory of bulk crushed stone aggregate materials, decorative stone, masonry supplies, outdoor living equipment, hardware, gardening and planting supplies, maintenance products, and much more.

Whether you’re looking for materials to enable you to make over your property or for supplies that will help you to maintain an existing landscape, we have everything that you need for your project from start to finish. Our materials are available for pickup or bulk delivery throughout NJ, NY, PA, and CT.

How Much Does Rock Salt Cost?

Rock Salt Cost Last winter was filled with snow and ice, and many homeowners across the northeast are wondering if we’re in for another tough winter in 2015.

One of the simplest and most effective means of combating the frigid cold weather is by spreading rock salt and other ice melting materials across surfaces that may be likely to freeze over and create dangerous conditions.

Considering how unpredictable the weather can be in the months leading up to and throughout the winter season, it’s best to plan ahead and purchase your rock salt in advance.

Last winter we worked with countless homeowners and businesses to assist them with their rock salt needs. Some of their most common questions were:

How much does rock salt cost?
How much rock salt should I buy?
How can I make sure I’m getting a fair price?

To address these questions and more, our team of rock salt experts has put together this guide to tackle how much rock salt costs and how to find the right product for your needs.

Factors that Impact Rock Salt Cost

Some of the most common reasons for variations in rock salt cost include:

Brand – As with any type of product, the brand name of the rock salt that you’re considering will play a contributing role in how much the overall price tag will be. Despite the fact that most brands work to keep their prices relatively similar in order to remain competitive within the marketplace, you will notice slight fluctuations.
Function – What sort of function will your rock salt need to perform? For some home and business owners, a basic rock salt that will keep slick surfaces at bay is all that is really needed. These fundamental products may cost less than other ice melting materials that are designed to reduce any residue that may be tracked indoors, rock salt that is specifically engineered to be safe for children or to protect the paws of dogs and other pets, or products that are intended to minimize any harmful impact on the environment.
Melting Capabilities – As you calculate your rock salt cost, you’ll also need to take the melting power of your product under consideration. Depending on the chemical makeup of the ice melting material, it may or may not be able to perform below a certain temperature benchmark. The difference between a product that works at -25 degrees, for example, may cost more than a product that only works down to -15 degrees.
Availability – As you may recall, the cold and icy weather from last season lasted well into 2014. As a result, many people were required to purchase large amounts of rock salt in order to keep their properties safe and clear from ice formation. This ultimately led to a rock salt shortage. Because the demand for the product was larger than the supply available, many suppliers raised the price of their rock salt. In order to get the best and lowest rock salt cost, it’s best to anticipate your need and purchase the product ahead of time so that you don’t have to worry about spending more when the winter is harsh.
Amount Purchased – Always consider how much rock salt you’ll actually need as you budget for winter supplies. If you’re not sure how much material will be required to cover your surface area, consult with a professional. For those with very large properties such as parking lots and commercial driveways, though, you’re likely going to need to order in bulk. You’ll find that purchasing rock salt by the pallet will result in a discount over buying by the bag or bucket.

Getting the Most Bang For Your Buck

In order to ensure that your rock salt cost fits with your budget, it’s smart to take the time to discuss your specific needs with a professional that you can trust. This will allow you to purchase the rock salt with the proper melting power and safety benefits that you require.

Choosing a Rock Salt Supplier

One of the keys to getting the most out of your investment in rock salt involves finding a high-quality supplier like Braen Supply. At both of our convenient NJ locations we offer a variety of different types of rock salt and ice melt to ensure that you’ll be able to find exactly what you’re looking for.

Even if you’re not sure which kind you need, our team of experts is ready and able to provide you with the advice and information that you need to make an educated decision. We work hard to keep your rock salt cost as low as possible, offering competitive wholesale pricing every day. You’ll find our products available by the bag, pallet and truckload for pick-up or bulk delivery throughout NJ, NY, PA and CT.

Photo courtesy of Bangor Daily News.

Are My Mexican Beach Pebbles Really Black?

Mexican Beach Pebbles for Sale in NJ Home and property owners tend to be attracted to Mexican beach pebbles as a result of their naturally smooth texture and rounded shape, as well as the striking colors.

Dark grays and dark blues are among the more commonly selected shades that you’ll see. The interesting thing about Mexican beach pebbles is that when they become wet, they actually appear darker in color.

This leads people to wonder whether or not Mexican beach pebbles are truly black. Having worked in the landscape supply industry for more than a decade we’ve met many customers looking for black Mexican beach pebbles.

We’ll tell you the truth about black Mexican beach pebbles and how you can create a landscape with them that you’ll love.

What Makes Mexican Beach Pebbles Black?

Black Mexican beach pebbles offer a very sophisticated look, but are they actually “black”? What most people initially perceive to be black is actually a darker variation of another color. It’s true that these beach pebbles can naturally be found in a shade of charcoal, but this is not “true” black.

When the stones become wet, they will appear to be darker, offering more of a deep black hue. This is actually a trick of the light.

Water affects the way in which light reflects off of the surface of materials like Mexican beach pebbles. This fools the eye into recognizing a darker color. But what if you want your stones to be black all the time instead of just when they’re wet?

The answer is simpler than you might think: sealed. When a stone is sealed, it can trick the eye into seeing a jet black color no matter what. The reflection of light upon the glossy, sealed surface of a stone completely alters its appearance, and makes the viewer believe that they are seeing black Mexican beach pebbles.

Besides Black Mexican Beach Pebbles, What Options Do I Have?

Even though black Mexican beach pebbles have gained the most notice, they’re certainly not your only option. This is great news for homeowners who like the shape, size, and smoothness of these stones, but don’t feel that the brilliantly black hues will blend in with the rest of their landscape and/or hardscape.

Darker colors in shades of blue and gray are certainly available, but for those who prefer warmer tones, you’re in luck. There are other stones that are available similar to Mexican beach pebbles in colors including, tan, brown, red, and even green.

Depending on the existing stone materials found throughout your landscape and the style of your home, you might prefer one color over another. You can also choose to purchase a mix of stones to create an interesting palette of varied hues.

How Can I Use Mexican Beach Pebbles?

Mexican beach pebbles are extremely versatile and can be used for a number of different projects and applications, including:

Gardening Accents – Mexican beach pebbles of all colors are a great way to enhance the appearance of your planters, flower beds, and gardens.
Mulch Replacement – These stones are an excellent alternative to traditional organic mulching materials. The beach pebbles work to regulate soil temperatures and moisture levels, and don’t need to be replaced on a regular basis.
Paths & Walkways – Although the size of these stones may not make them practical for high-traffic paths or walkways, they are beautiful as garden trails, and can also be used as an edging material around paths constructed of other materials.
Water Features – Mexican beach pebbles are particularly striking when used in and around water features like fountains, waterfalls, and dry river beds.

Where Can I Buy Black Mexican Beach Pebbles?

Because black Mexican beach pebbles are so popular, it’s not difficult to find vendors who sell them. While you may have numerous options, it’s important that you take the time to find a reliable supplier that you can trust.

For more than a decade, Braen Supply has become a leader in the sale of high quality decorative stones. Our staff are all familiar with Mexican beach pebbles and have the dedication and passion required to connect you with the right size and color stone for your specific landscaping project.

We offer the lowest prices possible so that you can beautify your property on a budget you can afford. Our black Mexican beach pebbles are available for pickup from our two NJ locations. For larger orders, talk to one of our professionals about our bulk delivery services throughout NJ, NY, PA and CT.

Mexican beach pebbles are on of the most expensive decorative stones available.

Where Can I Buy Mexican Beach Pebbles?

Buy Mexican Beach Pebbles As you drive through many neighborhoods, you might come across a number of “cookie cutter” homes, all with identical landscapes.

If you’re ready to break free of that mold and introduce something truly unique to your property, you should give some thought to Mexican beach pebbles.

These stunning stones provide an exotic look in a way that is still quite simplistic so that they don’t stick out in your landscape like a sore thumb.

Instead, the soothing coloration and smooth, rounded texture of these decorative rocks will attract the eye to your property, enhancing and accentuating all of its other lovely features. As if that weren’t reason enough to buy Mexican beach pebbles, the stones are also very versatile and functional.

To get the most out of these amazing pebbles, you’ll need to make plans on how you can best utilize them throughout your landscape, and where you can buy them at the lowest prices.

Getting the Most From Mexican Beach Pebbles

Before you buy Mexican beach pebbles, you’ll need to have a better idea of how you will implement them throughout your property. Because there are a range of sizes and colors available, as well as a variety of uses for these decorative rocks, it’s smart to seek out the advice and input of an expert stone supply company like Braen Supply.

Our team has been working with these incredible pebbles for years, and is more than happy to answer any questions that you might have and help you plan out the various ways in which the stones can enhance your current home landscape.

All you need to do is tell us about the present layout of your property and let us know what your vision is. From there, we can provide you with a number of ideas about where and how you can incorporate the Mexican beach pebbles. Some of our top suggestions for utilizing the stones include:

Planters & Gardens – When used in planters, around vegetation, or as tree circles, Mexican beach peoples bring attention to your plant life while also offering the benefit of acting as an alternative to organic mulch. These stones are also popular for “zen” rock gardens.
Water Features – As beach pebbles, it’s only natural that these stones would look spectacular when incorporated into water features like fountains, dry riverbeds, or waterfalls.
Paths – Although generally too large to walk upon directly, Mexican beach pebbles make an excellent filler option surrounding paving stone steppers in paths and walkways. They can also act as an attractive edging material.
Lawn Replacement – You might opt to replace all or part of your grassy lawn for these soft, smooth pebbles. Not only to they evoke a sense of calm beauty, but they also enable you to save time and money on lawn maintenance.

These are only some of the options on how to use Mexican beach pebbles on your property. Once you know how you’d like to lay out the decorative rocks throughout your landscape and are ready to purchase, our team will continue to work with you in order to calculate how much material you’ll require, which tools and equipment you might need, and delivery options, where necessary.

Where to Buy Mexican Beach Pebbles

Knowing how you’d like to utilize Mexican beach pebbles is only half the battle. After speaking with a professional at Braen Supply, we’d hope to gain your trust and confidence in our abilities as a decorative stone supplier, but in case you need further convincing, we also offer the following advantages:

Large Inventory – Braen Supply is proud to offer an extensive inventory of Mexican beach pebbles in a variety of sizes ranging from 1/2″ – 5″. This ensures that you’ll find exactly what you need to complete your specific project.
Industry Experience & Connections – After more than a decade in business, we’re not only knowledgeable about the decorative stones that we sell, but we’ve also developed relationships with contractors. Should you require professional assistance for your project, we can connect you with the best.
Wholesale Pricing – Never buy overpriced Mexican beach pebbles. Braen Supply always offers the most fair and competitive wholesale pricing to customers like you. For planning a project with Mexican beach pebbles, keep in mind that although they are very unique and attractive stones, they are imported from South America and as a result tend to be significantly more expensive than many other locally quarried decorative gravel.
Delivery Services – If you’re tackling a particularly large project and require a bulk order of beach pebbles, you might need to enlist the help of our professional stone delivery service. Braen Supply extensive fleet of dump trucks and flat beds will ensure the timely delivery of your Mexican beach pebbles.

Don’t just take our word for it. See for yourself why so many people come to us when they’re ready to buy Mexican beach pebbles.