Belgard Pavers Price: How to Budget Out Your Next Landscape Project

Everyone likes the idea of upgrading their home’s landscape, but no one wants to have to crunch the numbers. The work that you need and want to have done to your home’s exterior is more affordable than you may think, though.

Homeowners have discovered that working with Belgard Pavers makes it possible to obtain the most sophisticated and high quality hardscaping materials at a fraction of the cost of natural stone and other natural materials.

Not only that, but it’s easy to plan a budget that will work with your unique financial situation so that you don’t blow through your life savings all in one fell swoop. So how is this possible?

This post will help you to plan a reasonable budget for your next hardscaping project that will enable you to take advantage of low Belgard Paver prices and budgeting tools.

Belgard Pavers = Cost Savings

Who says that you have to work with natural stone in order to enjoy a beautiful outdoor living space? Belgard Pavers proves that this isn’t the case. The popular hardscape manufacturer employs the most talented designers and engineers to craft incredibly beautiful and versatile concrete pavers, wall stones, steps and related materials that look exactly like the real thing.

Everything from the colors used to the textures employed will leave you believing that your hardscape has been constructed entirely from natural stone. The best part is that you won’t be paying natural stone prices in order to enjoy this luxury!

Because the pavers are comprised of concrete materials, you’ll find that the price tag is significantly lower than that of stone that has been harvested and processed from nature.

This means that you’ll be able to stretch your dollar much further, thus enabling you to take care of all of your hardscaping plans at one time, rather than in stages. Why wait to start experiencing your new outdoor living space when you can have it all today?

Tips for Budgeting Your Landscape Project

Want to make sure that you plan and stick to a smart landscaping budget? Here are a few expert tips:

Carefully Assess Your Space

The first step to creating your ideal landscaping budget is to take the time to carefully and thoroughly evaluate the space that you’ll be working with. How large or small will you want your new patio, walkway, or driveway to actually be?

Are you only in need of a “floor” for an outdoor living room and dining area, or do you want to add warmth to the space with a fireplace? Are you someone who like the idea of cooking and entertaining outside?

That might mean constructing a full blown outdoor kitchen. Visualizing how you want your new landscape and hardscape to look will help you to be practical about how much material you’re going to need to invest in, and how much money you’ll need to plan on spending.

Making use of a design software tool can help you to figure out what will work for your landscape. You may even find that your yard would look better with more features than you originally anticipated.

This is a good thing because you’ll actually end up saving money by completing all of your work at once, rather than doing it piecemeal throughout the years.

Choose Affordable Materials

Once you know what you want to do with your landscape and/or hardscape, you’ve got to find the right materials. Fortunately, you’ve got the upper-hand on this step because you already know that Belgard is one of the smartest options for choosing a budget-friendly yet high quality product.

It’s a good idea to visit a showroom or to request samples from Belgard to determine which styles and colors work best for your vision and for your property. This will ensure that you get the most value for your dollar spent.

Find an Authorized Dealer

Make sure that you only buy Belgard paving and hardscaping materials from an authorized dealer. Some people might try to sell materials under the table for a lower price, but you risk ending up with a cheap knockoff or not being taken care of by the Belgard guarantee/warranty. Authorized dealers will always have the biggest variety of quality materials at the lowest prices.

Use an Authorized Contractor

In addition to working with an authorized dealer, those who are hiring a professional for the installation process should only consider working with Belgard Authorized Contractors. This is the only way to ensure that the job is done right, that you get the best deal possible and that you can take advantage of your warranty.

Be Smart About Financing

There are numerous financing options available to homeowners who wish to upgrade their landscapes and hardscape, but that doesn’t mean that all of them are good. Be sure to take the time to scrutinize your options and make sure that you’re getting a good deal.

Don’t Neglect Maintenance

Once you’ve completed your incredible landscaping upgrade with Belgard Pavers and other similar materials, you want to make sure that it continues to look incredible and serve your needs in the many years ahead. This means that you need to take the time to properly care for and maintain your hardscape.

Fortunately, Belgard is a very low maintenance brand. It’s generally recommended that you establish a regular routine for sweeping dirt, leaves and other debris away from the surface. This will help to prevent the growth of mold and any staining.

Should a stain occur, you will need to gently wash the affected area with a soft cloth and a solution of water and mild dish detergent. These simple measures will go a long way in protecting your investment.

The Belgard Preferred Payment Plan

Think that you have to pay for everything all at once? Think again. As mentioned earlier, it’s important to be on the lookout for the best and fairest financing options when upgrading your landscape and hardscape.

The Belgard Preferred payment plan is an ideal solution that will help you to achieve all of your dreams without breaking the bank. The easy financing plan can be customized to fit your needs. 90-day, 180-day, 365-day and 18-month payment plans exist, and those with approved credit won’t need to worry about being hit with ridiculous interest rates.

Best of all, your financial information is submitted directly to a bank – not a contractor, subcontractor, or other institution. This means that you can feel completely safe and secure throughout the entire payment process.

Buying Belgard Pavers in NJ

Could Belgard Pavers be just what you need to beautify your home’s landscape? Braen Supply is the largest and most trusted supplier of Belgard Pavers in NJ and its surrounding areas.

Because we are authorized dealers, we are able to offer the most up-to-date products at the most competitive prices. We’re also more than happy to help you estimate your total costs and connect you to a reputable, Belgard Authorized Contractor.

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

The Benefits of Being a Belgard Authorized Contractor in NJ

Throughout the years, Belgard has earned its reputation for being one of the top manufacturers of high quality products that continue to exceed industry standards, time and again. As a contractor, why wouldn’t you want to be a part of that?

Not just every contracting company can claim the privilege of being able to sell Belgard products, though. In order to do so, you must take steps to become a Belgard Authorized Contractor (BAC) in NJ.

So how can you do that, and is it really worth your efforts? This post will highlight what it takes to be recognized as a BAC and all of the benefits that come from doing so.

Becoming a Belgard Authorized Contractor in NJ

Becoming a Belgard Authorized Contractor in the state of NJ will require a little effort on your part, but it’s well worth it. For starters, you’ll need to develop a positive relationship with a local Belgard Authorized Dealer, because an authorized dealer will need to recommend you to Belgard before you can proceed with the process of becoming authorized yourself.

Once you’ve established a relationship with a dealer, you will be able to work together in order to build your client base and act as a team in recommending one another’s services – everyone wins! Next, you’ll need to have at least one ICPI certified person on staff, and at least one NCMA/SRW certified individual on your team.

You will be required to provide proof of insurance and of home improvement licensure. Finally, you will need to satisfy all of Belgard’s installation requirements, and if you plan on installing Technical products, you must complete the Certified Applicator course. From there, you’re ready to get started on your journey as a BAC!

Benefits of Becoming a Belgard Authorized Contractor in NJ

The honor of being named a Belgard Authorized Contractor means that you are a part of an elite partnership where you will be fully backed by one of the leading hardscaping manufacturers in the nation and in the world. Here’s a look at what you stand to gain from becoming a BAC this year:

Free Marketing

As a contractor, you’re good at working with your hands. You enjoy installing beautiful hardscaping products and seeing the look on your client’s faces when they first get a good look at the fruits of your hard labor.

You don’t necessarily want to have to spend the time and energy on promoting your products and trying to convince your customers that they should buy specific materials for their hardscaping upgrade. When you’re a Belgard contractor, you won’t have to worry about that kind of thing.

Because Belgard is an internationally recognized brand with a huge marketing presence, all of the advertising is actually done on your behalf.

Homeowners will be hooked on Belgard’s own marketing efforts, will research the products on their own and will actually seek you out as an authorized Belgard contractor. That makes your job easy so that you can focus on doing what you do best.

Access to Belgard Design Studio

It can be difficult for homeowners to lock down their plans and ideas for their hardscaping makeovers without being able to really visualize what the end result will look like. It’s scary to think about investing money in a patio, outdoor fireplace, retaining wall, or other hardscaping materials only for them to not look quite right within the scope of the property.

Belgard contractors can allay all of their client’s concerns by making use of Belgard Design Studio. This awesome design software allows you to show your customer’s exactly how the finished project will look.

Your clients will be able to upload plans and images so that they can get a 3D look at precisely how things will fit, be arranged and mesh together. It’s a beautiful thing!

Industry Leading Warranties

As a contractor, you want to make sure that your customers are well taken care of – even after the work has been completed. One of the great things about Belgard is that it offers incredible, industry leading, lifetime warranties on its products.

This means that if something happens to a paver, wall block, or other Belgard hardscaping material, you’ll have the ability to swoop in and save the day for your customers, all while chalking it up to Belgard’s warranty. Not a penny wasted on your part. Who doesn’t love that?

Superior Quality

Take comfort and pride in knowing that you’re only connecting your clients with the very best hardscaping materials on the market. It’s easy to do your job well and feel satisfied with the work you’ve completed when you know that the materials you’ve installed will look fantastic, serve your customer’s needs, and last for a lifetime.

All of Belgard’s materials are carefully designed and manufactured to offer consistent beauty and quality. All coloring is applied throughout the entire “stone” so that fading and discoloration won’t occur over time.

The materials are all tough and durable, and more than capable of withstanding the elements – even the harsh winters we so often experience here in NJ.

The end result is a spectacular product that’s easy for your customer’s to maintain and that will keep them satisfied in the many years to come. And the more satisfied your customers are, the more likely they are to recommend you to their friends.

Innovative Style

Belgard never stays stagnant. The innovative brand is always working to create new and exciting hardscaping product that match with today’s style trends while still maintaining a sense of classic elegance that will endure for a lifetime.

A recent partnership with an Italian manufacturer has yielded a wonderful line of porcelain pavers. Who knows what else is to come in the future? You’ll always be the first to be able to take advantage of the latest product offerings.

Belgard Preferred Payment

One of the biggest objections that homeowners have about hardscaping projects is that they believe they simply cannot afford it. Belgard Authorized Contractors will never have to deal with this type of argument again.

Let your customers start enjoying a hardscaping upgrade with Belgard pavers today, without having to pay until tomorrow. Belgard’s Preferred Payment financing program makes it easy for homeowners to be able to complete projects in phases, which means that it’s a lot easier for contractors to get business, increase sales and even upset their customers.

You’ll also be able to enjoy confidence in the fact that you’ll get paid in full – every time – without putting your customers between a rock and a hard place. Everyone wins!

Partner Up With Braen Supply Today

So, are you ready to become a Belgard Authorized Contractor in NJ? Braen Supply is more than happy to help. As a Belgard Authorized Dealer, we have the ability to provide recommendations to Belgard on behalf of interested contractors like yourself.

We’ll then act as your source for all of the latest and greatest Belgard product offerings so that you’re always up-to-date with the inventory you can provide to your client base. Our Belgard products are always available at the lowest rates and can be picked up or bulk delivered to job sites throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC and CT.

Design Your Dream Backyard in NJ with Belgard Design Studio

So you’ve fallen in love with Belgard Pavers – now what?

It’s easy to get excited about all that Belgard has to offer. Whether you’re installing a brand new patio, swimming pool deck, staircase, retaining wall or a stunning outdoor fireplace, each of Belgard’s many different products have been crafted to perfection, featuring styles, colors, textures and patterns that are to die for.

But just because you know that Belgard makes fantastic products that look amazing in showrooms and other people’s backyards doesn’t mean that you fully possess the ability to visualize how the materials will look within the scope of your own property.

Don’t feel bad! Even the most skilled landscapers and designers sometimes struggle to see a finished product in their “mind’s eye”. Fortunately, you don’t have to go through it alone.

Because Belgard wants to help its customers turn their landscaping and hardscaping dreams into reality, they’ve developed a useful tool for bringing design ideas to life. The Belgard Design Studio is just the thing you need to finalize your plans for your upcoming project so that you can move forward with total confidence.

Belgard Design Studio At-A-Glance

You may be wondering what makes Belgard Design Studio so special. Here’s a look at what this intuitive and helpful tool has to offer:

3D Renderings

Belgard has worked hard to generate inspirational ideas and suggestions for how to upgrade your hardscape with their incredible products. An array of concepts have been put together by a team of skillful designers, each featuring different aspects of your outdoor living space.

Whether you’re interested in establishing a warm and inviting outdoor living room, a cozy yet upscale outdoor kitchen, an oasis surrounding your swimming pool, a sophisticated driveway, or a gorgeous paved walkway, you’ll find amazing ideas that make use of Belgard materials.

These renderings give you an idea about how the materials will look in 3D scale and how they interact with other landscaping and hardscaping elements.

Fly Through Animation

Wouldn’t it be nice if you could look at more than just pictures and images of how your new hardscape might look? Having the ability to actually see it in person would be ideal.

Since that’s not possible, Belgard Design Studio offers the next best thing: Fly Through Animation. Here, you can actually get a sense for how it would look and feel to move through your new hardscape.

Personalized Concepts

It’s fantastic that Belgard has taken the time to create inspiring design concepts of its own, but you may want to know exactly how those design concepts are going to look within the scope of your unique landscape. Fortunately, the Belgard Design Studio makes that possible.

You can input the specs of your property, upload drawings and even upload images of your project area into the system in order to see how certain materials and designs will actually appear once they have been installed. It’s the best way to be sure that you’re going to love your upgraded hardscape, both now and in the years ahead.

Benefits of Belgard Design Studio

Those who make take advantage of all that Belgard Design Studio has to offer won’t be disappointed. Here are some of the key benefits:

Easy Visualization

As mentioned earlier, one of the most challenging aspects of upgrading your home’s hardscape comes in having the peace of mind and assurance that the finished product is actually going to look good.

This type of assurance can only be had when you have the ability to accurately visualize how your property will look once the work has been completed.

When you make use of Belgard Design Studio, you’ll be able to take specific Belgard materials and see how they will appear within your own backyard so that you can be sure that this is the route that you really want to take with your home makeover project.

Understanding of Scale

This one goes hand-in-hand with having the ability to fully visualize how your new hardscape is going to look within your property. It’s one thing to generate a 2 dimensional mock up that shows you where certain Belgard products will go within your project space and to help you determine that you have the appropriate square footage to accommodate all of the features you desire, but seeing a flat image isn’t enough to make the best decisions for your home’s exterior.

You need a full 3D concept in order to get a true sense for the scale of your project. Certain Belgard products, like fireplace kits, outdoor counters, etc. will take up a bit of space and mass, and it’s important to know how far these elements will stick out, how tall they appear and how that will impact the overall flow of your outdoor rooms.

Helps with Mixing and Matching

Belgard encourages its customers to have fun with the design process and to take some creative license when it comes to mixing and matching products with different designs, textures, colors and patterns. That doesn’t mean that all materials will look good when paired together, though.

Making use of the Design Studio will allow you to play around with different materials and see which types of products actually compliment and work well with one another as opposed to those that might clash or look the best within your hardscape. This will help you to avoid making design mistakes that you’ll regret.

Receive Input

You’re not the only one that’s going to see your finished hardscaping upgrade. If you’re like most homeowners, you’re going to want to show off your outdoor living spaces by entertaining your friends, family and neighbors.

This means that their opinions count, too. When you employ tools like the Belgard Design Studio, it’s possible for you to show your design ideas, plans and 3D concepts to people you know and trust so that you can get their thoughts on your project. You may even get some inspirational ideas or tips from your nearest and dearest!

Making Use of Belgard Design Studio

After seeing all of the perks associated with working with Belgard Design Studio, you’re probably eager to get started. While certain 3D concepts can be downloaded directly from the Belgard website under the Design Studio section, more specific and customized tools may need to be accessed by a Belgard Authorized Contractor (BAC).

Before hiring a contractor, we recommend that you take measures to ensure that they are a BAC and that they make use of the Design Studio tool. This will give you the best possible experience with your hardscaping project.

Working with Belgard Materials in NJ

Braen Supply is the “go to” supplier for all things Belgard in NJ. As an authorized dealer, we are well-connected with Belgard and are always on top of the latest design and installation trends.

We offer a full inventory of Belgard products and our team of experts is more than happy to assist you with the process of selecting the materials that are best for your property. We always offer the lowest and fairest prices around.

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

What Belgard Hardscape Design Software Can I Use?

Upgrading a home landscape with Belgard pavers and other hardscaping materials is a big deal. Homeowners who make the decision to beautify their properties with these versatile products are making a significant investment in their futures, as they put their hard-earned money towards a project that will shape the look of their home for the many years ahead.

This means that everything needs to be absolutely perfect, from the layout of the materials to the colors selected, and everything in-between. How can you be sure that you’re making the right decisions when choosing your Belgard materials and creating a hardscape design?

Contractors and homeowners alike rely on design tools that have been specially developed for landscaping and hardscaping efforts. Being able to use programs like these can make the design and installation process much simpler and more enjoyable than ever before, all while yielding the most positive results possible.

So what types of hardscape design software programs are available to those who plan on working with Belgard products? Instead of hunting the internet for sub-par tools that won’t meet your needs, Belgard users can take advantage of the hardscaping brand’s very own hardscape design software. Read on to learn more.

Why Use Belgard Hardscape Design Software

Some contractors and homeowners may not yet be convinced that they actually need to make use of a hardscape design software tool like the one available through the Belgard website. Why do you need to take the time to learn how to use a software program and develop plans within its scope?

Can’t you just pick the products you like and make them work within your own space? The problem with “winging it” is that you never know exactly what the results will look like.

What looks fantastic in a product showroom, for example, may not translate to your own backyard. The last thing you want is to invest thousands of dollars on pavers or other hardscaping materials that don’t quite mesh with your property’s color scheme or that don’t exactly fit the overall style and tone of your landscape.

This will diminish your perceived value of your home and detract from its curb appeal rather than building it up. A reliable hardscape design software tool will take all of the guesswork out of your project.

Instead of pointing at a showroom design and hoping that it will look as good in your property, you’ll have the ability to actually see how it would fit into the overall plan and design of your landscape. Using a tool like this will empower you to make better choices for your project so that you end up much happier with the final result.

Belgard Hardscape Design Software Capabilities

So what, exactly, can you expect from Belgard hardscape design software? Users will find that the tool is extremely helpful, in a number of ways.

Whether you need some help envisioning how your hardscape should look, or have some pretty creative design ideas of you own, you’ll be able to come up with the perfect plan for your upcoming project by taking advantage of all that Belgard’s design software has to offer.

Free Design Concepts

If design isn’t your forte, or if you’re in need of a little design inspiration, Belgard’s hardscape design software will prove to be a big help. Belgard design experts have worked hard to develop detailed design concepts for homes that will allow you to envision your perfect landscape.

Belgard’s “fly-through” option will allow you to check out the plans from all angles. Here are the hardscaping areas that Belgard has created design concepts for:

Outdoor Living Rooms – Many Belgard users are looking to establish outdoor living spaces that they’ll absolutely love – both now and in the future. In response to this need, Belgard has taken the time to come up with some fabulous design concepts that are beautiful and sophisticated, and will last the tests of time. The end result is an outdoor living room that you and your loved ones will enjoy spending time in.
Outdoor Kitchens – Outdoor kitchens are gaining in popularity throughout NJ and the northeast. Belgard has developed some classic outdoor kitchen layouts that employ pavers which are ideal for this specific purpose. Not only will the pavers look great, but they’ll also be highly functional and easy to maintain.
Pool Decks – An attractive, paved swimming pool deck is the hallmark of any backyard oasis, and Belgard has you covered yet again. Their versatile hardscape design software provides users with an array of stunning options for designing a swimming pool deck that will highlight the best features of the swimming area while enhancing the look of the entire home.
Driveways – Belgard knows driveways, and has chosen to lend their expertise in this area by generating several incredible paved driveway designs for you to choose from.
Walkways – Whether you’re looking to create a whimsical and winding lane through your sprawling gardens, or desire a stately and elegant path that leads directly to your front door, Belgard has come up with a number of options that will speak to your unique sense of style.

Design Your Own

If you’re looking for more specific and personalized design plans, you’ll find that Belgard makes it very simple for you to customize your personal vision for your project. Typically, homeowners will need to pair up with an authorized contractor or landscaping designer in order to embrace this aspect of Belgard’s hardscape design software.

Here, you’ll be able to upload your exact project dimensions, your unique sketches and property images and any other information specific to your project. This data will all be applied to your design plans, enabling you to see exactly how certain Belgard pavers and other hardscaping materials would look within the context of your property’s other landscaping and architectural features.

This is the best way to make smart decisions about any design patterns or layouts, as well as about style and color. As in the case of the pre-generated design concepts, you’ll have the ability to “fly through” your 3D design plans to get a comprehensive look at how your finished hardscape will appear – BEFORE moving forward with the installation process.

Planning Your Belgard Project in NJ

If you’re ready to get started on your plans for your upcoming project with Belgard Pavers, be sure to visit the Braen Supply showroom. Braen Supply is a leading supplier and authorized dealer of Belgard Pavers in NJ.

We offer a full inventory of the latest Belgard product offerings, and allow you to get acquainted with how the materials look and function, live and in-person. From here, you can make decisions about which products you’re most interested in so that you can see how they might look within the scope of your project when you use Belgard’s hardscape design software.

We’re more than happy to answer any questions you might have, and can help connect homeowners with authorized Belgard contractors for the best possible hardscaping results. Once you’re ready to get your project underway, be sure to talk with our experts about ordering our competitively priced Belgard pavers for pickup or for bulk delivery. We deliver to areas throughout NJ, NY, NYC and PA.

Top 5 Benefits of Using a Hardscape Design Software to Design Your Dream Backyard

If you’ve been giving any thought to upgrading your hardscape, you’ve probably been tossing various ideas around, trying to come up with the perfect plan for your designs. Perhaps you love the way that certain pavers and outdoor fire features look in the scope of a supplier’s showroom, but you’re not positive they’ll work for your specific property.

Maybe you’re struggling to figure out how to create interesting hatch patterns that you’ll love in the many years to come. Or it could be that you’re just not sure about how everything will fit and flow together. How can you possibly move forward with your plans with so much uncertainty?

The savviest homeowners know that they can’t go it alone when making plans for hardscape design and installation. And while you certainly might consider hiring a professional landscape designer to assist with your plans, this step isn’t necessary when you make use of the right hardscape design software tools.

In this highly technological era, it’s very possible to get all of the valuable information you’d receive from a pro, right from a set of incredible software tools. Hardscape design software is specifically designed with homeowners in mind.

The intuitive programs make it easy for you to visualize and plan how to move forward with your upcoming project so that you can enjoy the peace of mind that you’ll love the finished product – both now and well into the future. Here’s a closer look at a few of the key benefits you can enjoy from making use of reliable hardscaping design software tools:

1. Visualize It in Your Own Back (or Front) Yard

One of the biggest problems that people have when planning out the design of their hardscape is that they struggle to be able to “see” or visualize the finished project within the scope of their own property.

Sure, that outdoor kitchen looks amazing in someone else’s backyard, but how will it look when it’s sitting next to your house and your other landscaping features? Will it be too big? Will the color scheme and style match up? How can you be sure?

A good hardscape design software program will actually allow you to upload photos of your own property and get a firsthand look at how certain hardscaping elements will look within the flow of your space.

This will make it much easier for you to make decisions about your project and relax throughout the installation process so that you can enjoy the work being done, rather than stress about it.

2. See It in 3D

Most people have played around with 2 Dimensional drawings of layouts for the design of interior and exterior design elements.

This can be helpful in determining how much space you actually have to work with in terms of square footage, but it’s also very limited in terms of how much information can truly be revealed about how your design elements will really work within the scope of your space.

Yes, these designs will tell you that you’ve got the “floor” or ground space to accommodate a fireplace or outdoor pizza oven between your outdoor kitchen and your outdoor living room, but how will it look in scale? Will it be too bulky, or will it tie things together perfectly?

The only way to know for sure is to go beyond 2D and into the world of 3D. Many hardscape design software programs make it possible for you to assemble 3D, scale models of your dream hardscape so that you can be sure that everything will fit together perfectly and create a space that you absolutely adore.

3. Be Inspired

So you want your hardscape to look absolutely fabulous, but you’re not a design professional yourself. Not a problem! You don’t have to have the intuitive ability to come up with unique and visually interesting patterns, layouts, designs or mosaics inside your own head (although, if you do possess this ability, kudos to you!

We encourage you to employ your creativity and make a design that’s truly your own!) With the right software design software, you can take a look at countless different plans and mosaics to see how different patterns, shapes, designs, and styles can be arranged to complement one another and create a truly dazzling hardscape that you and your guests will be enamored of.

Other software tools will provide you with inspirational design concepts that will help to get your creative juices flowing in terms of how to lay things out and proceed with your plans in a way that makes sense.

4. See What Works (And What Doesn’t)

Mixing and matching different styles, colors and textures can be a lot of fun – but it can also be difficult.

Making use of a good hardscaping design software tool will let you play around with different concepts before you make a final decisions so that you can see what does and doesn’t work.

5. Get Valuable Input

While you’re certainly your own person and you enjoy making decisions for yourself, you probably still enjoy gathering feedback from people that you know and trust, as well as from other interested parties. As the old adage goes, “Two Heads are Better Than One.”

While you might be so sold on one idea that you can’t see any considerations that you may need to make or any flaws in your plans, a friend or family member might be able to offer a fresh perspective and help you come up with better ideas and solutions that will cater to your design needs for a smoother installation process and years of enjoyment.

One of the great things about hardscape design software is that it enables you to take the plans that you’ve made for your hardscape and share them with others. Some programs allow you to print or email your designs so that you can take them with you to show your family and friends, or to email to those that you trust for feedback.

Other programs make it easy to assemble information, testimonials and feedback from other homeowners/customers who have already gone through the design and installation process so that you can get tips from their experience.

Designing and Upgrading Your Hardscape in NJ

When you’re ready to move forward with plans to design and install the hardscape of your dreams, Braen Supply is ready and able to help.

As industry experts, we’re familiar with all of the very best hardscape design software tools that are available to homeowners like yourself, including those that have been developed by leading hardscape manufacturers like Techo-Bloc, Belgard and Cambridge.

We are happy to provide you with tips and tricks for making use of these tools while also adding our own professional advice on how to get the most out of your project. As soon as your designs are complete, we can connect you with all of the materials and tools required to get the job done right.

We offer a massive inventory of Belgard hardscaping materials, all of which are available at low and competitive, wholesale prices. Our materials can be picked up at your convenience or can be bulk delivered to areas throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC and PA.

Porcelain Pavers vs. Concrete Pavers: Pick the Right Material for Your Outdoor Oasis

A beautiful hardscape is the hallmark of any home with curb appeal. Those who want to make their properties stand out while getting the most out of their outdoor living spaces know that the best way to go about improving their hardscape is to make use of faux-stone pavers.

Both concrete and porcelain pavers are extremely popular throughout the northeast, each offering their own unique advantages and each being equipped with their own merits. While either option is excellent, though, one might be more “right” for your property than other.

How do you choose between the two? This guide is here to highlight the benefits and considerations associated with both concrete and porcelain pavers, as well as tips for choosing the right material for your hardscaping upgrade.

Concrete Pavers At-A-Glance

As the name indicates, concrete pavers are made from concrete. This isn’t just your ordinary, standard, gray slab of concrete cement, though. Instead, skillful engineers work to design and manufacture pavers that look and feel just like real stone.

The concrete is cast in molds with specific cuts and shaping that resemble that which could be found in nature, and a natural texturing is also applied to all sides of the “stone”. The concrete is also dyed all the way through in order to give the material a beautiful, natural stone appearance that won’t fade or diminish over time.

In addition to manufacturing pavers that look like stone, some concrete paver manufacturers have also experimented with generating pavers that emulate wood.

Porcelain Pavers At-A-Glance

Not all faux stone pavers are made with concrete. In recent years, it has become popular to create beautiful pavers from tough and durable porcelain.

High tech manufacturing processes make it possible to generate a ceramic material that is much thicker than the ceramic tile used indoors, making it very suitable for use throughout a home’s exterior.

Porcelain pavers, like their concrete counterparts, are often designed to emulate natural stone, or even other elements like natural wood, both in coloring and in texture. The result is a very affordable, practical and beautiful alternative to natural products.

Concrete Pavers: Benefits and Considerations

There’s a lot to love about concrete pavers. Some of the many perks include:

Beauty – There can be no mistake about the fact that concrete pavers are absolutely gorgeous. They are designed to look and feel just like the real thing, and even the most well trained eye often can’t tell the difference.
Style – Concrete pavers are made with many different styles in mind. Whether you’re into an old world European style, prefer a touch of whimsy, or are looking for something very modern and stylish, you’ll find the perfect fit.
Affordable – Although concrete pavers look just like the real deal, they are available at a fraction of the price. This means that you can work with concrete pavers on any budget.
Versatility – Concrete paving materials are the perfect fit for an array of different hardscaping projects. Some of the most common uses for concrete pavers include patios, driveways, paths and walkways, swimming pool decks, etc.
Consistency – Unlike natural stone, concrete pavers are manufactured with care, precision and attention to detail. You’ll enjoy the same consistent quality from unit to unit.
Longevity – Concrete is able to withstand the tests of time. Once you install your concrete pavers, you’ll be able to enjoy their beauty for many years to come.
Weather Resistant – Concrete pavers are resistant to the effects of the elements. They are able to hold up nicely in heat and cold, and aren’t impacted by the sun’s UV rays or rain.
Low Maintenance – You won’t have to invest a lot of your precious time and energy into taking care of your concrete pavers.

Of course, there are some things to consider when working with concrete. It’s important to make sure that you use the appropriate chemicals for melting snow and ice during the winter month so as to avoid corrosion. In addition, keep an eye out for cracks and address them quickly to avoid problems with freeze and thaw cycles.

Porcelain Pavers: Benefits and Considerations

Porcelain pavers also have a lot to offer. Here’s a look at some of the key perks to working porcelain into your hardscape:

Gorgeous – With a single glance, you’re sure to fall in love with the rich yet subtle beauty offered by porcelain. The ceramic material lends itself to being manufactured into a product that is nearly identical to natural stone and wood.
Budget-Friendly – Porcelain is an extremely low-cost alternative to working with natural materials.
Traction – Porcelain offers fantastic traction and is perfect for swimming pool decks or for creating walkways in areas subject to rain or water from irrigation systems.
Tough and Durable – Porcelain is an extremely hard and tough material, and the pavers are even thicker than normal which adds to their strength.
Easy to Clean – Porcelain is relatively stain-resistant and is very easy to clean and maintain.

Although extremely hard and durable, porcelain is fragile during the installation process and should be treated with the utmost care.

Concrete vs Porcelain Pavers: Which Should You Choose?

All things having been considered, it’s easy to see that both porcelain and concrete pavers are excellent options for anyone wanting to take their home’s hardscape to the next level.

Because both materials are very affordable, practical and readily available throughout our area, the decision will really come down to your personal tastes and desires, and the options that are available from each type of paving material.

It’s a good idea to take the time to really envision how you would like your completed project to look so that you can make the right decision about the style of paver you are most interested in, as well as pertaining to the color schemes that you invest in.

This will help to narrow down your options significantly so that as you browse through the different product lines available from leading paver manufacturers, you can make a quick and confident decision.

Should you have any questions about the benefits or drawbacks of either concrete or porcelain paver products, we strongly recommend that you take the time to visit a local supplier and pick the brains of the professionals who are experienced with both types of materials.

You can also request samples of materials from many suppliers so that you can get a better sense for what each has to offer.

Buying Concrete and Porcelain Pavers in NJ

Regardless of whether you’ve elected to work with concrete or porcelain, it’s important that you find an honest and reputable paver supplier in your locale. Braen Supply is the leading supplier of Belgard concrete and porcelain pavers throughout all of NJ and its surrounding areas.

We offer beautiful, high quality products from the top manufacturers of concrete and paving materials in the world so that you can enjoy the peace of mind that you’re working with the best of the best. Our prices are always as low and competitive as possible.

Give us a call or stop by today to pick up your pavers or talk to one of our friendly professionals about having your order bulk delivered to job sites throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC and PA.

Top 5 Perks of Choosing Belgard Pavers to Transform Your Home

What is your outdoor living space doing for you? If you haven’t upgraded your patio, driveways, pool deck or other areas of your home’s exterior recently, you could be dealing with a bit of an eyesore that’s not nearly as functional as you’d like while creating a lot more trouble to maintain that what it’s actually worth.

If this plight sounds familiar, it’s time to give your hardscape a makeover, and we strongly suggest that you start with Belgard pavers. As a leading designer and manufacturer of permeable pavers, Belgard has established itself as a reliable mastermind within the industry.

Belgard is constantly working to engineer new, more beautiful (yet highly functional) pavers that will mesh well with current landscaping and hardscaping trends while still being able to withstand the tests of time, offering lifelong beauty and satisfaction.

Available in a wide range of styles, colors and patterns, Belgard appeals to every demographic, and because the materials are so affordable, anyone can work these incredible pavers into their budget.

1. Beauty Like No Other

Belgard is known for employing the best and brightest designers and engineers to manufacture truly breathtaking concrete pavers that you’ll immediately fall in love with and will continue to adore throughout the many years ahead.

Each paving stone is crafted with careful attention to detail, with the coloring, patterns, cuts and texturing all designed to emulate naturally occurring stone, but at a fraction of the cost. Color is applied all the way through so that you won’t have to worry about fading or discoloration over time.

Instead, the brilliant hues that you select will look just as incredible ten years from now as they do today. No matter what type of upgrades you make to your hardscape, you’ll be the envy of your friends and neighbors when you choose gorgeous Belgard pavers.

2. Project Versatility

Belgard pavers are appropriate for a wide range of different projects and styles. Because there are so many different style families and color options available, you’ll find that you have nearly limitless options when it comes to creating a paradise of your very own – regardless of how you intend to use your pavers.

Many NJ homeowners have fallen in love with the idea of establishing a warm and inviting outdoor living space where they can gather with friends and loved ones. This might mean using Belgard pavers to establish a stunning and functional patio dining area, to serve as a kitchen floor or even to act as a cool, comfortable and slip-resistant decking around your swimming pool.

Of course, Belgard pavers are also fabulous when used to establish unique front driveways and walkways. No matter how you choose to upgrade your hardscape with Belgard, you’ll find that it’s easy to bring your dreams to life with the incredible versatility of its pavers.

3. Improved Drainage – In All Seasons

Here in NJ, we’re no stranger to precipitation. Whether it’s spring, summer, fall, or winter, we’re frequently barraged with rain, snow, sleet and even hail. This can lead to significant problems with drainage.

Homeowners often find themselves dealing with flooding on their properties – especially when driveways are sloped. During downpours, excess water can also pour down driveways and paths and off into streets where it creates excess storm runoff, thus compromising our underground water supply and even leading to the possibility of unsanitary conditions or unhealthy drinking water.

The great thing about Belgard permeable pavers is that they’re actually designed to fully prevent these types of problems from occurring. As the system of beautiful, concrete blocks are laid on top of an aggregate bed, water is able to immediately start percolating back into the groundwater supply – naturally and at a healthy rate.

This will not only do wonders for your own property, but will also help you to give back to your community by doing your part to protect its water supplies. What’s more, Belgard permeable pavers can work especially well when paired up with heating cables.

Underground heating cables are becoming increasingly popular throughout NJ and the northeast, as they help to rapidly melt snow and ice without the use of rock salt or other ice melting compounds.

Because any melted ice will be able to immediately drain into the ground, you won’t have to worry about the water refreezing and creating more problems. It’s the easiest way to maintain your driveway and other paved surfaces throughout the winter.

4. More Space for Living

There’s an old adage that goes, “Use it or lose it!” This sentiment applies to the space that is included within your property. If you’re not maximizing the value of every bit of space throughout your land, you’re going to lose out on the opportunity to get the most out of your home’s potential for outdoor living!

Working with Belgard pavers can help you to create more clearly defined, usable spaces throughout your home’s exterior. The pavers are easy to install in a variety of shapes and patterns, allowing you to squeeze usage and get functionality out of every inch of your property for entertaining and enjoying your life in the great outdoors.

5. Low Maintenance, High Yields

Another fantastic thing about Belgard pavers is that they require very little maintenance whatsoever. Whether you select concrete or porcelain pavers, you can count on incredible strength and durability, ensuring that your finished project will hold up well throughout the decades ahead.

Belgard pavers aren’t prone to staining, scratching, or fading. Should something spill onto your pavers, all you’ll need to do is to treat the area with a diluted solution of water and mild detergent in order to remove the blemish.

Other than that, simply taking the time to sweep dust, grass, leaves and debris away from your pavers on occasion will keep them in tip-top shape. And while you’re investing very little time and effort into caring for your pavers, they will be increasing the overall value of your property, thus enabling you to get the most bang for your buck.

Buying Belgard Pavers in NJ

If you’re ready to join the ranks of savvy NJ homeowners who have opted to work with Belgard pavers, look no further than Braen Supply. As the leading, authorized dealer of Belgard pavers in the Tri-State area, you can count on the fact that we always carry a full inventory of Belgard products.

Regardless of your personal tastes and needs, we’ll connect you with the perfect pavers for your home’s exterior. We offer all of Belgard’s famously styled pavers in a variety of colors and textures for your choosing.

Because we are well-connected with Belgard, you can also rest assured that we will always be on top of the latest product offerings and style trends, as well as the latest tips and information on project installations and maintenance.

Our Belgard pavers are the most competitively priced in the region and are available for pickup or bulk delivery in areas throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC and PA.

5 Expert Tips for Compacting Base Material

Here at Braen Supply, we pride ourselves on providing our customers with valuable information that can aid with their hardscaping experiences in NJ. Before beginning any hardscape project, it’s crucial to understand the importance of the compaction process. This blog post by Alliance offers 5 expert tips for compacting base material.

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

We recently shared 5 Expert Tips For Compacting Native Soil. Now we’re moving along to Phase II … compacting the base material. Mike Huber, Technical Support Manager, provides five expert insights for successfully completing this step of your hardscape project.

1. Make sure you plan for enough base.

ICPI guidelines recommend a minimum of 4″ of base for walkways and patios and 6″ for driveways. It’s important to note that these recommendations are for ideal circumstances in non-freeze-thaw climates. Many site conditions can require 6″ for walkways and 10-12″ for driveways or even more!

2. Buy suitable base material.

Base material should contain a variety of sizes of pieces and particles (but not too many fine pieces). Too much fine material (passing 200 sieve) can lead to compaction issues and cause your base to fail over time. Ask your supplier for a sieve analysis and make sure that less than 3% passes the 200 sieve.

3. Mind your lifts.

A lift refers to the thickness of a layer of base material installed at one time. The amount of compaction force varies widely between different sizes and types of compactors.

A small forward plate compactor might only be able to handle 2″ lifts while a large reversible compactor may handle 6″ lifts or even more. Be sure to install the appropriate thickness according to the equipment you’re using.

4. Check the moisture content.

Base material needs to have sufficient moisture content in order to obtain maximum compaction. Water lubricates particles and helps them slide into place when the vibratory plate passes to obtain maximum compaction.

5. Consider a nuclear density test.

Industry guidelines recommend obtaining 98% Proctor Density. On your next project, consider hiring an engineer to test and see just how close you are getting to optimum compaction!

Compaction is a key determinant of the ultimate success of your hardscape project. Follow these expert tips when working with your base material and your project will be that much more resilient and far less prone to future failures.

5 Installation Tips for Mirage Porcelain Pavers in NJ

Outdoor living might not be at the front of your mind during the cold, winter months, but this is the perfect time to start planning for your next hardscaping project. For those who are interested in adding a touch of classic elegance with a splash of European flavor to their home’s exteriors, we strongly recommend Mirage porcelain pavers by Belgard.

Belgard, one of the leading hardscaping manufacturers in North America, recently partnered with a major Italian porcelain paving enterprise in order to create this exciting new line of porcelain tiles.

Mirage porcelain pavers offer a subtle beauty that speaks to the heart while establishing a warm and inviting outdoor living space that you’ll fall in love with time and again. It’s no wonder that NJ homeowners are growing so excited about the possibilities tied to hardscaping with Mirage porcelain pavers.

Mirage Porcelain Pavers At-A-Glance

Before we move any further into this post, it’s important that we clear the air about what porcelain pavers actually are, and why you should be interested in Mirage pavers. Porcelain pavers have a very similar look to indoor tile, but are actually thicker and much more durable.

Porcelain is known for being very resistant to breakage, even when subject to regular wear and tear. This makes for a very long-lasting and reliable paver for your frequently used patio and other outdoor entertaining areas.

Porcelain is also slip-resistant while remaining non-porous, which means that you can expect excellent traction when the pavers are exposed to water, while also not having to worry about the units becoming stained or damaged by exposure to spills and/or chemicals like swimming pool chlorine.

Of course, Mirage pavers are also known for their incomparable beauty. These versatile units are available in a wide range of styles and colors, making it simple for you to pull off the look of your dreams.

Whether you prefer soft, earthy tones that evoke a sense of being in a desert oasis, bold modern contrasts, or even pavers that look just like actual wood decking, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for.

Best of all, Mirage porcelain pavers are very affordable, and because they will increase the value of your property, you’ll get an immediate return on your initial investment. What’s not to love?

5 Tips for Installing Mirage Porcelain Pavers

Once you’ve made the determination that Mirage porcelain pavers are the perfect fit for your outdoor living space, it’s time to start making plans for the installation process. Fortunately, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process.

In order to make your life simpler, we’ve assembled five expert tips for working with these gorgeous porcelain pavers. Please be sure to give us a call or visit one of our locations for further tips, tricks, advice and information on Belgard pavers.

1. Decide on a Method

Just like there’s more than one way to skin a cat, there’s more than one way to install your porcelain pavers. Your method of installation will depend on how you intend to use the pavers (i.e.: for pedestrian traffic or for light vehicular traffic), as well as the existing conditions throughout your property.

Talk to a professional about assessing your property and your project plans to determine which course of action you should take. The six most common installation options include 1) Sand set over a compacted road base, 2) Sand set over concrete overlay, 3) Cementitious adhesive overlay with a concrete base, 4) Permeable over open graded aggregate, 5) Stepping stone sand on top of a compacted road base and 6) 20mm fixed pedestal on a concrete floor.

2. Assemble Your Tools

You can’t pull off a job if you don’t have the right tools, materials and equipment on hand. One of the most important tools that you’ll need to acquire is a wet cut tile saw.

This saw should be equipped with a diamond blade that is perfectly suited for the wet cutting of porcelain. Next, you should pick up a paver clamp.

This will allow for easy handling in the installation of your pavers. We recommend that you always work with gloves in order to protect your hands during the installation process.

Lastly, any time that you’ll be performing cementitious adhesive and proud installations, you should employ appropriate notched tools and grout float tools.

3. Pick a Joint Filler

You’ve to a few options when it comes to filling your paver joints. Some homeowners are happy to work with traditional, dry sand that is swept carefully into the open joints until they are entirely filled.

Because high winds and rain can cause erosion, you may need to re-fill the joints on occasion. Cement blended sand, which is comprised of 3 parts sand and 1 part cement, is another solid option.

The cement is activated by a misting of water. All excess cement must be swept away from the porcelain pavers before wetting in order to avoid creating a sticky, unsightly mess.

A final option would be to work with polymeric sand. This sand is blended with polymers that act similarly to cement, in that they Harden when exposed with water. Again, any excess polymer must be removed from the pavers prior to curing in order to prevent blemishes.

4. Give ’em Some Space

Remember that porcelain pavers should never be installed without a minimum of 4 mm spacing between each unit. Porcelain to porcelain contact can create problems with scratching and cracking, and can diminish the overall structural integrity of your project.

5. Handle With Care

Although porcelain is extremely tough and durable, it’s still prone to some scratching, chipping, cracking, or other blemishes when they are rubbed against one another. It’s for this reason that you’ll notice that your Mirage porcelain pavers come packaged with a very strong plastic covering, with individual units being packaged within cardboard boxes for added protection.

Don’t remove packaged pavers from their boxes until they’re ready to be installed, as handling multiple loose stones together increases the chances for chipping. You should also remember that porcelain pavers should never be compacted with a plate compactor, and should only be wet cut making use of the appropriate saw.

Buying Mirage Porcelain Pavers in NJ

Braen Supply is known throughout NJ for being the largest and most reliable supplier of Belgard products, including Mirage porcelain pavers. We are authorized dealers for Belgard Pavers, ensuring that we always have access to the latest Belgard products and information regarding their installation and maintenance.

We’re more than happy to pass that knowledge along to customers like yourself in order to guarantee that you have the best possible experience with your new porcelain pavers.

We make it our mission to always offer a full inventory of Mirage pavers by Belgard, and to keep our prices as low and competitive as possible. Our Belgard porcelain pavers can be picked up at your convenience, or can be delivered to areas throughout parts of NJ, NY, PA and CT.

How Failing To Compact Will Screw Up Your Project

Here at Braen Supply, we love great information that adds value to our client’s hardscaping experience in NJ. A major step that sometimes goes unnoticed during the paver installation process is the compaction stage. In order to have a successful and long lasting end result, it’s important to make proper compaction a priority. Alliance offers a great blog post about the importance of compaction during the paver installation process and discusses the problems that could arise if ignored.

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

Ahhhh, compaction. The process in hardscaping that’s about as much fun as watching paint dry. And while it’s easy to want to rush through this monotonous work, improper compaction can lead to a variety of problems down the road. Safety hazards. Settling. Joint failure. The list goes on. In this blog post, we’re going to discuss how failing to properly compact will … in layman’s terms … completely screw up your project!

Since an interlocking pavement system is flexible, the pavers that make up the finished surface will eventually mold and mimic any settling or shifts in the soil or base. So if they’re installed on top of an improperly compacted sub-base or base material, it’s safe to assume they will not stand the test of time. Add in variables such as weather or vehicular traffic and the issue of pavers settling and moving has just gotten much worse. The resulting compression and shifting of the pavers will quickly lead to problems … many of which are quite costly to repair.

Displacement by Freeze/Thaw

Freeze/thaw cycles can wreak havoc on a paver installation that was improperly compacted. Each void within the sub-base serves as a place for water to potentially settle. When this water freezes it will expand and cause the pavers to heave; when it thaws, the pavers will settle (but likely not evenly), eventually creating an uneven surface.

Compression by Vehicular Traffic

Driveway pavers that sit on top of poorly compacted areas will shift and compress over time. The weight of a vehicle will depress pavers into the weak spots, resulting in unattractive (and potentially dangerous) ruts and grooves on the surface.

Joint Failure

Another nasty side effect of bad compaction is joint failure. While polymeric sand is designed to be self-healing and flexible, it will not perform as intended if it’s installed on an improperly compacted job. Radical shifting and movement of the pavers will eventually cause paver joints to crack and fail over time.

Compaction. It’s a necessary evil and a job that should not be taken lightly. Do it right the first time and avoid call-backs and costly repairs after-the-fact.