Choosing the Right Stone for Your Outdoor Fire Feature

As a landscape architect, you know that every material in a design tells a story. The stone you select for a fire pit or fireplace sets the tone and mood for the entire space.

Choose the wrong type of rock and it might crack or shatter under heat. Choose wisely and the stone will hold warmth, endure the elements, and reflect your style.

Whether you’re designing an intimate courtyard fire pit or a showpiece fireplace for a boutique hotel, the fundamentals of stone selection remain the same.

The Role of Stone in Atmosphere

Texture: One of the first things I consider is the stone’s surface texture. A rugged, irregular surface brings a raw, organic feel – picture the rough-hewn fieldstone of a mountain lodge fire pit. By contrast, a smooth-cut or polished stone face imparts a sleek, refined elegance. Texture alone can make the difference between a fire feature that feels rustic and cozy versus one that looks contemporary and chic.

Color: The stone’s color palette directly influences the mood. Light-colored stones like golden sandstone or creamy limestone tend to create an airy, inviting ambiance, reflecting firelight softly. In contrast, darker materials such as slate or basalt give a more dramatic, intimate vibes. A circle of pale stone can make a small patio fire feel bright and open. A dark stone enclosure makes the fire stand out as a bold focal point.

Shape & Pattern: The shapes and layout of the stonework guide how the eye travels around the fire. Neatly stacked stone in level courses offers a sense of order and directs the gaze along clean horizontal lines. On the other hand, using irregular flagstone or fieldstone pieces creates a unique, organic pattern. Those varied shapes add character and a free-flowing visual rhythm. By thoughtfully choosing texture, color, and pattern, you curate the fire feature’s ambiance – be it sleek elegance or rustic charm – that people will feel as they gather around the flames.

Stone Options and Their Character

There are many stone types to choose from for a fire feature, each with its own aesthetic and practical strengths:

Granite: A very dense igneous rock famous for its strength – it tolerates high heat and harsh weather without cracking. Granite works well in both polished modern designs and more rustic, natural looks.
Limestone: A light-hued stone that lends a classic elegance, and it’s easier to carve than granite (great for custom details). Use a dense grade – very soft limestone can erode in the elements – and seal it to minimize weathering or stains.
Slate: Slate splits into flat slabs for a sleek, modern face, and it withstands high heat without cracking. Its blue-gray or black tones are dramatic, but because slate is layered it’s best used as a veneer or capstone (the edges can flake under stress).
Sandstone: This warm-toned stone has an earthy texture that gives a fire pit a relaxed, natural vibe. It’s easy to work, but choose a harder variety – softer sandstone can flake in rough weather (sealing helps to protect it).
Fieldstone: Natural stones gathered from the land (often already weathered and irregular). Fieldstone brings a rugged, organic character, though its uneven shapes may require mortar and skilled fitting for stability.
Cultured Stone Veneer: An engineered stone veneer that mimics real stone at a fraction of the weight. These cast concrete pieces are fire-safe and attach as a thin layer over a masonry structure – just to be sure to use a non-combustible backer and perhaps a firebrick liner so the veneer isn’t exposed to direct flame.

(Each of these options has its strengths. For example, granite and slate excel in durability, while limestone and sandstone offers lighter colors and easier workability. Cultured veneers provided versatility in style, and fieldstone gives unrivaled rustic charm. The key is matching the stone’s character to the project’s needs.)

Residential vs. Commercial Applications

A luxury residential fire feature is typically intimate in scale (sized for family and friends), whereas a commercial fire feature is often larger and designed to catch guests’ eyes. Because commercial installations see heavier use, they require more robust construction and an ultra-durable stone. A home fire pit, by contrast, can prioritize personal style as long as the stone is suitable for the local climate.

In terms of design, residential projects select stone that complements the home’s architecture and landscape, helping the fire feature blend in naturally. Commercial designs often use stone more theatrically to establish a theme or mood. For example, a trendy rooftop bar might use smooth, dark stone for a sleek modern vibe, while a rustic inn’s patio might feature rough local fieldstone for old-world charm. In each case, the stone choice reinforces the desired atmosphere of the space.

Practical Tips for Stone Selection

Complement Your Environment: Coordinate the fire feature’s stone with your home’s architecture and hardscape. Using the same or a complementary stone (matching existing patio or facade materials) makes the fire feature feel integrated into the overall design.

Durability & Maintenance: Think about your climate and your willingness to care for the stone. In cold, wet regions with freeze-thaw cycles, choose dense, non-porous stones that won’t break down in frost. Also consider upkeep: light or porous stones may need periodic sealing and cleaning to keep them looking their best, whereas darker or smoother stones tend to hide soot and require less fuss.

Construction & Safety: Build the feature so the stone lasts. Line the fire pit interior with fire brick or a steel ring if the outer stone isn’t extremely heat-proof. Also avoid using highly porous stones directly in the flame area – trapped moisture can make them crack or even explode when heated.

Budget Considerations: Balance beauty with cost. Local stone is usually more affordable and often suits the regional style and climate. Exotic stone or intricate masonry work can drive up costs quickly, so weigh the aesthetic payoff against the budget.

Conclusion

Selecting the right stone for an outdoor fire feature is a nuanced process – a blend of creative vision and pragmatic decision-making. In my years of designing fire pits and fireplaces, I’ve found that when aesthetics and engineering meet in harmony, the result is an outdoor focal point that truly elevates a space. The stone you choose will shape the look, feel, and longevity of your fire feature, so take the time to weigh your options and trust your informed instincts. With careful selection, your fire feature’s stone will not only complement your luxury landscape, but will also stand as a testament to quality and timeless design for many years of cozy, glowing gathering.

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Quality design deserves quality materials. Partner with Braen Supply to source reliable stone, veneer, and pavers tailored to your project requirements.

Meet the Author

Written in the voice of Braen Supply's in-house expert persona, Gabriel Shaw. Shaw embodies the collective knowledge of our team and shares practical, straightforward tips to help landscape professionals make the most of their landscaping and masonry projects - drawing on decades of experiences serving New Jersey and the tri-state area.

Integrating Drainage Systems with Porcelain Pavers

In modern outdoor design, few materials offer the crisp, architectural precision of porcelain pavers. Their clean lines and uniform textures lend themselves to contemporary aesthetics, minimalist landscapes, and transitional patios alike. Beneath their polished surface lies a necessity too often overlooked in the design phase: drainage.

Effective water management is not an afterthought; it’s an essential design element. For porcelain pavers, the challenge lies in integrating drainage systems that perform without compromising the visual rhythm of the installation. Fortunately, with foresight and a few technical considerations, drainage and design can coexist in a seamless harmony.

Drainage Requirements

Porcelain is virtually nonporous. While this makes it extraordinarily stain-resistant and ideal for freeze-thaw cycles, it also means water won’t naturally percolate through the surface. Without a dedicated drainage plan, pooling and runoff can compromise the integrity of the base materials—or worse, damage adjacent structures.

Design professionals must consider both surface water (from rainfall or irrigation) and subsurface drainage (from trapped moisture beneath the pavers). The goal is to direct water away from the installation without letting the solution draw attention to itself.

Strategic Techniques for Drainage Integration

1. Slot Drains That Disappear into the Design

Linear slot drains are a favorite among architects for their subtlety. When positioned along the edges of paved zones or aligned with grout joints, they capture water efficiently while appearing as part of the design’s natural geometry. Many models are available with stainless steel or porcelain-topped covers for a cohesive look.

2. Perimeter Channel Drains with Matching Inserts

For areas prone to heavier runoff—such as near pool decks or driveways—channel drains can be installed along the outer perimeters. When specified with porcelain-compatible or discreet trench grates, these systems blend into the surrounding pavers with minimal visual disruption.

3. Proper Sloping and Grading

A critical, if invisible, part of any installation is the slope. Even subtle grading—typically 1-2%—ensures water flows toward designated drain points. With porcelain’s rigid format and sharp-edged profiles, this can be done without creating visual distortion in the pattern layout.

4. Raised Pedestal Systems for Rooftop or Terrace Installations

In elevated applications, pedestal systems offer built-in drainage beneath the pavers. Water drains through the open joints between pavers and flows freely across the waterproof membrane below. This is an ideal solution for urban rooftops or elevated balconies, where traditional grading is impractical.

Materials and Finishes

To preserve design continuity, select drainage products with finishes that either coordinate with or purposefully contrast your chosen porcelain line. Matte black or brushed stainless steel offers a contemporary edge, while porcelain-topped covers maintain the illusion of uninterrupted surface. Where possible, specify drain covers from the same manufacturer as the pavers for a perfect match in color and texture.

When to Involve Your Drainage Consultant

Early collaboration is critical. By involving a drainage engineer or consultant during the design development stage, you can ensure that your creative vision aligns with technical feasibility. This proactive step often eliminates the need for unsightly retrofits or after-the-fact adjustments.

Conclusion: Designing for Longevity and Elegance

At its best, outdoor design conceals complexity beneath simplicity. The finest installations balance aesthetics and performance without drawing attention to either. By integrating drainage systems into porcelain paver designs from the outset, you preserve both the visual integrity of the space and the durability of the build.

At Braen Supply, we carry a full range of premium porcelain pavers as well as expert resources to help you plan for proper drainage—discreetly and beautifully. Stop by one of our locations to see available product lines and drainage accessories in person.

Braen Supply’s Top Porcelain Paver Lines: Landmark, Mirage, and Milestone

Porcelain pavers have ascended to the forefront of modern hardscape design and for good reason. Offering unmatched performance, visual refinement, and longevity, these pavers are redefining what’s possible in outdoor living. At Braen Supply, we’ve curated a portfolio of porcelain paver collections that exemplify excellence in design, durability, and environmental sensibility.

Today, I invite you to explore our featured porcelain paver lines: Landmark, Mirage, and Milestone—each selected not just for their beauty, but for the brilliant way they support long-term design integrity.

Why Choose Porcelain Pavers?

Before diving into the distinct qualities of each line, it’s worth reiterating the inherent value of porcelain as a paving material. Non-porous, fade-resistant, frost-proof, and low maintenance, porcelain provides a modern solution that outperforms natural stone or concrete in many residential and commercial settings. With consistent sizing, slip-resistant textures, and an ability to withstand freeze-thaw cycles, porcelain pavers are especially well-tailored to the demands of the Northeast climate.

But not all porcelain is created equal. Let’s take a closer look at what makes our signature lines stand apart.

Landmark: The Union of Heritage and Innovation

Landmark porcelain pavers are a tribute to enduring style with a contemporary edge. This collection offers a wide range of surface textures and color palettes. Including a wood-look, a stone-look, and minimalist concrete aesthetics—ideal for clients seeking visual continuity across architectural styles.

Benefits:

Exceptional strength and load-bearing capacity
Color body porcelain for better chip concealment
Broad range of sizes and modular formats
R11 slip resistance for both residential and commercial spaces

Whether you’re designing a rooftop terrace, pool surround, or modern courtyard, Landmark offers timeless adaptability with engineered precision.

Mirage: Made in Italy

Mirage is a leading manufacturer of high-performance porcelain pavers known for their durability, low maintenance, and sophisticated Italian design. Ideal for outdoor applications such as patios, pool decks, walkways, and rooftops, Mirage pavers are resistant to stains, frost, fading, and heavy loads. Available in a wide range of textures, colors, and finishes—including wood, stone, and concrete looks—they offer both aesthetic versatility and practical benefits like slip resistance and ease of installation. Mirage products are also eco-friendly, made with sustainable manufacturing practices and recycled materials.

Milestone: The Carbon Neutral Pioneer

Perhaps the most compelling of the three, Milestone has the first fully carbon neutral porcelain paver line—a revolutionary achievement in sustainable hardscaping. Without compromising on design or durability, Milestone delivers a guilt-free luxury aesthetic supported by certified eco-conscious manufacturing.

Benefits:

Net-zero carbon footprint through sustainable practices and offsets
Available in stone, cement, and terrazzo visuals
High resistance to thermal shock and mechanical stress
Available in styles that complement both traditional and modern builds

For clients prioritizing LEED certification or simply wishing to tread more lightly, Milestone is more than a paver—it’s a statement of values.

Visit Braen Supply to See These Lines in Person

When it comes to porcelain pavers, digital images only tell part of the story. We invite you to visit our showrooms to feel the texture, evaluate the color accuracy, and see how these collections interact with light and scale. Our team is well-versed in technical specifications and can help you match your project needs with the right line—whether it’s the sustainability-forward Milestone, the Italian Mirage, or the versatile Landmark collection.

Braen Supply carries all three lines in stock, offering both guidance and availability so your project can advance without delay.

Final Thoughts

Specifying the right porcelain paver isn’t just about picking a product—it’s about choosing a long-term partner in design. With Landmark, Mirage, and Milestone, Braen Supply offers professional solutions that does not comprise beauty, performance or sustainability.

If you’re ready to transform your next project with premium porcelain, let Braen Supply be your resource for materials that live up to your vision.

Techo-Bloc Installation Guide: Retaining Wall Edition

Techo-Bloc retaining walls are all the rage in NJ and its surrounding areas. More than ‘just a wall’, these fabulous retaining wall systems are capable of completely transforming a property and increasing its total value.

When installed correctly, a Techo-Bloc retaining wall can help to protect the integrity of a home’s landscape, add depth and dimension to a yard, create more usable outdoor living space and create unmatched beauty for the property as a whole.

Of course, in order to realize these benefits you will need to know how to properly install such a wall. This Techo-Bloc installation guide for retaining wall systems will help you to achieve your goal of creating a stunning landscape that will be the envy of your friends and neighbors.

Choosing Your Materials

The first part of our Techo-Bloc installation guide will cover the basics of selecting the right retaining wall materials for you.

NJ homeowners love Techo-Bloc because the brand works hard to produce a wide range of wall blocks which are beautiful and durable enough to create unique retaining walls that will fit a wide range of needs and desires.

When selecting your retaining wall materials, it is important that you carefully consider the type of “vibe” or theme you are striving to create within the scope of your landscape.

Take care to ensure that the style of wall blocks you select will match up with these goals and will work well with any existing landscaping or architectural materials throughout your property. It’s usually a good idea to visit al local Techo-Bloc showroom in order to get an idea about how the materials look in person.

You might also request samples from Techo-Bloc in order to determine which color palette is right for your home. Finally, many Techo-Bloc Authorized Dealers and Contractors can provide access to Techo-Bloc design software tools which will better allow you to visualize the finished project.

To help spark your imagination and get you into the right frame of mind for following this Techo-Bloc installation guide for the design process, we’ve compiled a list of 3 of our favorite Techo-Bloc retaining wall materials:

Mini Creta – The Techo-Bloc Mini Creta wall block collection is among the most traditional product lines available. These blocks are perfect for homeowners who want to build retaining walls that will add to the warmth and welcoming “vibe” of their properties. Rich texturing, natural earthy shades and an aged finish will get you truly excited about these blocks.
Raffinato – If you’re into the idea of creating a modern, smooth and sleek design for your retaining wall, look no further than the Raffinato collection. These stunning blocks will give your home an upscale and clean look that you will fall in love with time and again.
Borealis Wall Blocks – Those who love the idea of natural beauty but who aren’t interested in the look of natural stone should turn their sights to the Borealis wall block collection. Although manufactured from concrete, these blocks look exactly like natural wood, offering a unique yet naturalistic appearance for any home.

Making Preparations

Before you can break ground and move on to the next phase of our Techo-Bloc installation guide, you’ll need to spend a little time making preparations for your project.

In addition to coming up with the perfect design and layout for your retaining wall system, you’ll also need to clear your plans with your local utility provider.

Schedule a visit from a utility professional who can assess your property and your plans. He or she will advise you about any underground pipes or cables that could interfere with your project plans so that you don’t end up with a major headache down the road.

You may also want to take steps to ensure that your new wall will meed local building codes and regulations.

Building Your Wall

Now that you’re ready to start building your wall, we’re able to move on to the meat and potatoes of this Techo-Bloc installation guide. By taking the following steps, you’ll find that installing your wall is fast and simple, allowing you to start reaping the benefits right away.

Excavation – You’ll need to dig out a trench before you can start installing your wall. The depth of this trench will need to be calculated in accordance with the thick of the leveling pad, as well as the burial depth of your wall. Typically, you’ll need to plan for a minimum thickness of 6” for the leveling pad. Generally, at least 10% of the height of the wall will need to be buried in the ground.
Clearing the Area – Make sure that you take the time to clear the trench of any large stones, roots, sticks, or other debris that could impair the structural integrity of the wall.
Adding the Foundation – The base and sides of the trench will need to be covered with a geotextile fabric in order to prevent the growth of weeds. Once in place, a crushed stone aggregate (3/4”) should be spread in the trench as a foundation and compacted for a completely level surface.
Building the First Course – Blocks of the same height should be used to build the first course on top of your leveling pad (foundation). Be sure to follow any predetermined layout plans for the proper placement of wall blocks. Make sure that the blocks are level and in alignment in all directions.
Adding a Drain – Once the first course has been laid, this Techo-Bloc installation guide recommends that you lay down a 4” diameter perforated drain that will connect into your existing drainage system.
Backfilling – Backfilling should occur at the rear of the wall with 3/4” crushed clean stone. Any cavities in the blocks should be filled with clean stone.
Adding Subsequent Courses – Blocks should be cleaned before laying the next course. Connectors should be installed on the extremities of individual blocks. Backfilling should occur every 8” Take care to ensure that all subsequent courses are situated in such a way that the vertical seams align with those below.
Finishing – Caps or coping stones should be applied where applicable, or else the final course of blocks should be installed to complete the wall. This course of stone will need to be fixed to the blocks below with a concrete adhesive.

If there’s any question about your ability to follow this Techo-Bloc retaining wall installation guide on your own, we suggest that you seek out the help of a professional, Techo-Bloc authorized contractor.

Building a Techo-Bloc Retaining Wall in NJ

We hope that this Techo-Bloc installation guide has proven to be helpful with your plans to construct a Techo-Bloc retaining wall. Once you’re ready to get started, the professionals at Braen Supply are ready to help.

Visit our local showroom to get a better sense for all of the Techo-Bloc materials we have. While you’re here, speak to our experts in order to obtain tips and advice on the wall construction process.

We can also provide recommendations on local Techo-Bloc contractors who can help you properly install your wall. Our materials are always available at competitive prices and can be picked up or bulk delivered to job sites throughout parts of NJ & NY and limited parts of PA & CT.

It Is with Great Sorrow That We Announce the Unexpected Passing of Harry Lutz

On Wednesday, September 6th, a loving wife lost her husband, two young children lost their father and we lost a valued member of our team. Harry will be greatly missed and remembered fondly.

Harry joined Braen Supply in early 2013 as a regional salesman. He excelled at his career, driven by a natural competitive nature and desire to do the best he could for his customers. Harry was extremely thorough, always following through until the sale was complete and the customer was satisfied. Harry is leaving a void on the Braen Supply team that cannot be filled…

However, explaining Harry’s dedication and unwavering work ethic is best in his own words. Last week Harry wrote the following to Janet and Josh Braen in an email, “I truly enjoy my job and hope that I meet or exceed your expectations. I hope that I continue to sell more and more each year and to help grow this business. Your family has made this a second home for me and I plan on staying for a very long time!”

Harry will be gone from the everyday operations of Braen Supply, but his memory will remain with all of us for a very long time.

On Saturday, September 9th the family will receive guests at a viewing from 2:00pm until 6:00pm. A short prayer and memorial service will be held during the viewing. As of right now, there is not a formal funeral planned.

Patrick J. Conti Funeral Home
274 Market Street
Elmwood Park, NJ 07407
201-796-0060
www.patrickjconte.com

Please join us in keeping Harry’s family in your thoughts and prayers. Let us especially remember Harry’s wife, Colleen, and his two young children as they mourn their loss. May God bring them peace and comfort during their time of despair.

If you would like his address to send condolences or to offer support to his family in other ways, please contact human resources @ 973-595-6250.

How to Choose Between NJ’s Different Techo-Bloc Suppliers

Techo-Bloc products are among the most popular hardscaping materials used by NJ homeowners. Techo-Bloc has grown in its popularity throughout the years because it offers incredibly beautiful concrete pavers that look just like natural stone. Each collection of pavers, slabs, steps, caps, wall blocks, edging materials, or outdoor fire features have something truly special to offer in their texturing, cuts and coloring.

Having the ability to play with colors and patterns only adds to the appeal of these high quality and affordable “stones.” Before you can dive in and start working with Techo-Bloc products, though, you need to know where you can go to purchase the materials in your locale.

A quick search on Techo-Bloc’s website will reveal the names of local NJ suppliers who are authorized to sell their products, but how can you be sure that you’re buying from the right dealer? For obvious reasons, we’re inclined to recommend ourselves.

At Braen Supply, we’re confident that we are the best and leading supplier of Techo-Bloc products in all of NJ and the Tri-State area. You don’t just have to trust our (slightly) biased opinion, though, because the facts speak for themselves.

Read on to learn what makes a Techo-Bloc supplier truly great, and see for yourself why we are the #1 place to go with all of your Techo-Bloc needs in the Garden State.

Local Availability

You already know that you want to begin your search for a Techo-Bloc supplier right in your backyard. Good for you – you’d be surprised by how many people try to go online in order to find a good deal, only to end up paying through the teeth for shipping and delivery expenses.

In addition to being located in NJ, though, it’s important that your supplier actually have a full inventory of Techo-Bloc products that are presently located in your area.

Unless they’ve got the goods in-stock, you may have to wait a longer period of time in order to get started on your project, and you may not even have the opportunity to visually inspect your materials prior to purchasing. Braen Supply offers a full inventory of Techo Bloc products available conveniently and locally throughout the year.

Style on Display

You can always log on to the Techo-Bloc website in order to take a look at inspirational design ideas. This is great for getting your creative juices flowing and starting the process of figuring out how to design your landscape, but having the ability to see the materials you love, live and in-person, will help you even more.

Choose a Techo-Bloc supplier that has a local showroom where they display various Techo-Bloc products in outdoor living and landscaping settings. Braen Stone is proud to put the different styles of Techo-Bloc on display so that you can really get a feel for the impact that the “stones” will have on your landscaping upgrade.

Industry Background

It’s always in your best interest to look for a Techo-Bloc supplier that has proven itself by withstanding the tests of time. Some landscaping and hardscaping supply stores come and go, but the best ones are able to maintain loyal customers through offering incredible products, superior customer service and fair prices at all times. Do a little research to find out how many years your prospective Techo-Bloc dealer has been in business.

Bear in mind, too, that dealers who have been working with Techo-Bloc for a while will have strong industry ties and connections, meaning that they’ll be able to help you find a reliable, local contractor who has worked with Techo-Bloc products in the past. We’ve been authorized to deal Techo-Bloc products for many years and are more than qualified to assist you with your project.

Education & Training

The best Techo-Bloc suppliers are serious about the products they sell and want to make sure that their entire team is on board.

These are the businesses that take the time to learn the ins and outs of the different Techo-Bloc products they work with so that they are able to answer all of their customer’s questions with total confidence.

Braen Supply prides itself on its superior knowledge of Techo-Bloc materials and we work hard to stay on top of the latest product offerings, installation techniques, maintenance techniques, etc.

Product Passion

In addition to being knowledgeable about Techo-Bloc materials, a good Techo-Bloc supplier will also be passionate about helping homeowners to completely transform their properties with beautiful Techo-Bloc products.

This means that they’ll be willing to go above and beyond the call of duty to provide you with advice and input about your upcoming project. This is 100% true of Braen Supply.

To us, you’re more than just another customer that we can potentially sell to. Instead, we want to make sure that you walk away with a product that’s perfect for your needs and that you’ll be happy with for a lifetime.

Professional Courtesy

Never give your business to a Techo-Bloc supplier that isn’t honest, professional, kind and courteous. You deserve to work with a dealer that listens to your needs and concerns and works with you to accommodate your every need. At Braen Supply, we are always on your side.

Timely Deliveries

If you need your Techo-Bloc materials delivered to your job site on a particular day at a particular time, you shouldn’t have to sit around waiting for your supplier to show up with your order! Insist on working with a company that has a great reputation for being on time and providing safe, scheduled deliveries.

Ongoing Care

What happens after you’ve completed your project with Techo-Bloc materials? Will your supplier still be there for you? Although Techo-Bloc products are designed to near-perfection and are of the highest quality, there’s always the chance that something could go wrong with a single paver or wall stone.

In cases like these, you need to know that your supplier will be there to help you walk through the lifetime warranty process and will ensure that you’re able to restore your outdoor living space to its former glory without a hitch. Again, it’s important to have a supplier that’s been around for awhile so you can feel confident that they’ll still be in business to uphold the warranty. Braen Supply is committed to having its customer’s backs, even after the job is complete.

Final Thoughts

It’s easy to see why Braen Supply is the most trusted and sought-after supplier of Techo-Bloc products throughout NJ and its surrounding areas. After years in the business, we not are not only knowledgeable about the products we sell, but we are excited and passionate about helping our clients select the right materials for their landscaping and hardscaping projects.

We are always willing to work with you in order to accommodate your schedule and your needs. You’ll always enjoy the fairest prices from our two NJ locations. Feel free to pick up your Techo-Bloc products at your convenience, or talk to us about having them bulk delivered to areas throughout parts of NJ, NY, NYC and PA.

We’ve Announced Our Winner!

Thank you to everyone who reviewed our Braen Supply Wanaque location. Congratulations are in order for Debora Brown, the winner of a Braen Yeti cooler!

We truly appreciate our customers’ loyalty and we’re continuously looking for ways to say thank you! That’s why we’ve decided to add a summer contest and give everyone the opportunity to join! If you have already taken the time to give us a review, no problem – you can still partake in this giveaway by leaving us another review.

Here’s how it works:

1). Click the button below and leave us a review any time before August 31st, 2017 talking about your experience working with Braen Supply.

2). We’ll enter you into our sweepstakes to win a pair of brand new reclining camping chairs.

3). In September, we’ll announce the winner and email them with specific details.

The New Septic Stone Laws in NJ

Here in NJ it’s not at all uncommon for houses and places of business to be spaced apart from one another. When these spaces grow too large, it becomes impractical to connect these structures to a city sewage system. In these cases, a property owner will need to have a septic system installed.

If this is true of your property, it’s very important that you understand that your septic system is your responsibility. Whether you’re having a new septic system installed, are acquiring a property with an existing septic system or simply need to maintain an existing system, it’s up to you to ensure that the system complies with state and local laws and regulations.

In order to meet New Jersey septic codes, you must take the time to keep up with frequently changing laws and standards. This is especially true when it comes to the types of stone that can and should be used for establishing a healthy drainage field.

Do you know the current septic stone laws in NJ? If you can’t honestly answer ‘yes’ to this question, it’s high time that you brushed up on your knowledge. This post will walk you through the basics of selecting materials that meet NJ standards and the impact that doing so has upon you, those around you and the environment.

Why does the state regulate septic materials?

You may find yourself wondering why septic stone laws in NJ even exist. What do the state and local governments have to do with your private septic system? Why can’t you just make decisions about your septic systems based upon your own needs?

Although your system is, indeed, privately owned and maintained, it still has the capacity to impact the health and well-being of your family, neighbors, city and beyond. Septic systems operate by filtering waste water as it passes through perforated pipes, a septic tank and is finally introduced to a drain field.

The functionality of the drainage field is to slowly allow semi-filtered water to percolate back into the soil, further filtering the water before it is reintroduced to the groundwater supply. So what happens if the drain field isn’t able to effectively do its job?

Without septic stone laws in NJ, property owners might mistakenly select stones that aren’t ideally suited for the task of filtering and percolating water at the required speed and capacity. In this case, you could be in for a world of trouble.

When the drain field isn’t able to properly leach the effluent matter, waste will rise to the top of the drain field. As this waste settles, you may notice a foul or unpleasant odor throughout your property. The standing effluent also creates significant health hazards to your family, your neighbors and animals in your area.

These issues are obviously related to the inability of the septic stones and soil to adequately absorb and filter the wastewater. Here, the drain field has become over-saturated due to poorly selected septic stones. This can also lead to a backed up sewage system creating further health hazards and major messes within the home.

In other cases, the septic material blend may not be ideally suited to properly filter and purify effluent, resulting in contaminated water being allowed to penetrate the groundwater supply. Adhering to septic stone laws in NJ, then, is critical to maintaining a healthy home and environment.

What types of septic stones can be used in NJ?

The type of septic stone and fill that can be used for a septic system in NJ will vary based upon where your property is located. While statewide laws for installing and maintaining septic systems are in place, you will also need to pay close attention to the regulations within your county or city.

Sussex County, or instance, has established its own set of laws that mandate the strict usage of 1″ washed clean stone in septic drain fields. In the northern portions of the state, many areas require that property owners work with K5 or C33 concrete stone (formerly known as K4).

In addition to knowing which material is allowed for use by the state and county, we would also recommend that you find out which approved materials are most preferred by local inspectors to ensure that you pass inspection both now and in the future.

What steps should I take to ensure I’m adhering to septic stone laws in NJ?

As a home or business owner with a septic system, it’s your responsibility to ensure that your system is up to code and complies with state and local regulations. The first step to doing this is making sure that you’re up to speed with what’s going on with NJ septic system codes.

Be sure to do your homework and make sure that you understand which type or types of stone and other septic materials have been approved for use. It’s also wise to consult with an expert to determine which of these approved materials are most preferred for an efficient and effective system.

Once you know the letter of the law, you are required to take steps to ensure that you’re actually following it. For those who are planning on purchasing a property with an existing septic system, we strongly urge you to seek out an inspector to assess the condition of the system and to determine whether or not the stone being used has been approved by NJ, county or city codes and regulations.

If not, you’ll need to ask the current owner to make the changes or plan on spending the money to make corrections after the sale is finalized. If you’re building a brand new septic system, make sure that your engineer is familiar with the source of your materials from the very start.

Where can I buy septic stones in NJ?

If you’re looking for materials that comply with septic stone laws in NJ, be sure to visit Braen Stone. We’ve been in the industry for more than 110 years, and in that time we’ve established an unmatched reputation for high quality stone, excellent customer service and fair pricing.

We sell 1″ washed clean stone that is approved by NJ government agencies for use in and around septic systems. The stone is completely free of stone dust and other residue so you can rest assured that you won’t be faced with any compliance issues.

In addition to 1″ septic stone, we also sell reliable septic fill that is rated K4 or K5 on the percolation scale that’s approved by most NJ engineers and agencies. If you have any doubts about whether or not a specific material truly complies with septic stone laws in NJ, feel free to talk to one of our experts. We’re more than happy to help you select the right materials for your needs.

Regardless of the septic materials you select, you can always rest assured that you’ll be getting the very best septic materials and fill at the lowest, wholesale prices around. Our septic stone and fill can be picked up at your convenience or can be bulk delivered to locations throughout parts of NJ, NY, PA and CT.

Braen Supply Holiday Hours 2015

Season’s Greetings!

With the holidays right around the corner we wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for your support and business.

We know you’ll be celebrating the holidays with friends and family in the coming days and we’ll be doing the same.

That means we’ll be away from the store for a little while, so we want to make sure you are aware of our holiday hours.

Braen Supply of Haledon and Wanaque will both be operating on the following schedule for Thursday, December 24th – Saturday, January 2nd.

December 24th: 7 a.m. – 1 p.m
December 25th: Closed for Christmas
December 26th: Closed
December 27th: Closed
December 28th: 7 a.m. – 1 p.m.
December 29th: 7 a.m. – 1 p.m.
December 30th: 7 a.m. – 1 p.m.
December 31st: 7 a.m. – 1 p.m.
January 1st: Closed for New Year’s Day
January 2nd: Closed

Braen Supply of Haledon will be open from 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. weekdays from January 4^ththrough March 7^th and will be closed on Saturdays from December 26^th through March 5^th.

Braen Supply of Wanaque will be open from 7 a.m. – 1 p.m. on Saturdays from January 9^th through March 5^th.

We wish you and your families a very Happy Holiday!

Revised Hours for Thanksgiving 2015

Happy Thanksgiving!

As we celebrate this holiday together with family and friends, we feel it’s only right to stop and give thanks for everything we have. At Braen Supply, we’re thankful for you and our local community.

We know you’ll be celebrating Thanksgiving with friends and family in the coming days and we’ll be doing the same.

That means we’ll be away from the stores for a little while, so we want to make sure you are aware of our revised hours.

Braen Supply of Haledon and Wanaque will both be operating on the following schedule for Thursday, November 26th – Saturday, November 28th.

Thursday, November 26th: Closed for Thanksgiving
Friday, November 27th: 7 a.m. – 1 p.m
Saturday, November 28th: 7 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Please note that our winter hours will go into effect starting on Saturday, November 28th. Braen Supply of Haledon and Wanaque will be closing at 1 p.m. Our winter hours will continue into March (weather permitting).

We wish you and your families a very Happy Thanksgiving!