Interlocking Veneer Panels

January 18, 2018February 9, 2021 ~ RR

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NEM is revolutionizing the veneer installation process with their new interlocking veneer panels. These panels can be installed in seconds, compared to 10x the time it takes to lay loose individual veneer stone pieces.

What makes these panels different from tradition veneer panels is their staggered shape which makes it nearly impossible to detect seams. The classic elegance and intricate detail of small stones combined with the simplicity of a panel system allows this paneling system to mimic the appearance of a precision hand-laid dry-stack veneer stone.

Panels are fast, simple, and economical to apply
Easy to use, no specialist skills required.
No need to fill grout joints
Seamless walls and corners.
Suitable for exterior and interior use.

NEM Interlocking Panels come in the ever popular ledge stone cut in the colors New England Blend or Berkshire.

How to Install Interlocking Veneer Panels

Step 1: Calculate

Calculate the square footage of the area. Interlocking Veneer Panels come in corner pieces and flat pieces. Linear footage is used to calculate corner pieces and square footage is used to calculate flat pieces.

To figure out the square footage simply multiply length by height. To calculate the liner footage for corners simply measure the height of all walls and add together.

*Tip: Be sure to subtract the areas filled by doors, windows, and fireplace openings.

Step 2: Prepare

Prepare the surface area by making sure that the existing surface is sound and level (i.e. repair cracks). Interior and exterior applications may require different preparations for the stone veneer. If you are unsure about your existing surface area please contact a representative at TLC Supply.

Step 3: Layout

Making a mock-up pattern on the floor because applying the stone to the wall is usually recommended. Make sure that panels are fitted together at random so a repeating pattern isn’t created. It is helpful to start with the corner pieces and then fill the inside.

Interlocking Veneer Panel Starter Panel — Starter Panel

Once you have laid out the corners start at the bottom with the Starter Panels. These panels are 1/2 height and are used on the first course of an installation. Starter Panels will give you the offset you need for the rest of the area.

*Tip: Instead of cutting a full size panel in half and potentially wasting product, use the Starter Panels to save time and money.

Pieces may need to be cut to lay flush against the floorboard, ceiling, or fireplace opening. You may cut the pieces with a wet saw using a carbide or diamond tip blade. Be sure to wear protective eyewear and follow proper safety measures when cutting stone veneer.

Step 4: Install

Run a horizontal chalk line every 18 inches for a reference point to help keep your courses level. Dampen the wall to increase the bonding strength of the mortar. Spread approximately ½ inch of polymer modified mortar such as Ardex X5 to the back of the stones (make sure there is 100% coverage) with a 1/4” mason’s trowel or notched towel.

Apply the stone to the wall with firm pressure and wiggle it gently to make sure the mortar is evenly coated. Hold the stone in place for a few seconds to ensure a secure bond. If the mortar seeps out you may use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe it away.

The beauty of having the panels already fixed to a precast backing is that there is no need to fill mortar joints. This eliminates the step of needing more than one type of mortar to fill the joints.

Interlocking Veneer Panels New England Blend Installed

Step 5: Cleaning and Sealing

If mortar gets on the panels you may use a gentle cleaner such as Simple Green to remove it. If the application is outside you may wish to seal it to help prevent water damage and stains. We highly recommend a breathable siloxane/silane blend sealer. Keep in mind that not all sealers are created equal, to learn more about sealers please visit our blog post on sealers. Different types of stone react differently to different types of sealers so it is important to select the proper one. Since these interlocking veneer panels contain granite we recommend using Prosoco Stone, Masonry, and Tile Protector to seal them.

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You can find Interlocking Veneer Panels as well as other types of natural thin veneer stone at TLC Supply in Quincy, MA. Please visit our website to see even more hardscape and masonry products ranging from bluestone,granite,brick,natural stone,block,sand,cement, and much more!

The experts at TLC Supply are happy to answer any of your project questions, just give us a shout!

“Best Price, Best Advice” -TLC Supply,Inc.

Pre-Made Outdoor Fire Pits

November 3, 2015February 9, 2021 ~ RR

Nothing brings people together like a nice campfire…

So why not gather around, roast some marshmallows, and create lasting memories with an easy to assemble Pre-Made Outdoor Fire Pit?

An outdoor fire pit can transform your backyard into the family’s favorite gathering spot and become the place where memories are made. Outdoor fire features have become the hottest growing trend in outdoor living since homeowners have begun yearning to make their outdoor spaces as warm and inviting as the interior of their homes. Pre-made Outdoor Fire pits are available in a variety of colors and can add a touch of elegance to any outdoor living space.

pre-made outdoor fire pit easy to assemble — Techo Bloc Valencia Fire Pit

It’s That Easy! – How to Install Valencia Fire Pit:

Step 1: Create a compact level surface.

Step 2: Begin creating the fire pit by laying pre-cut blocks in a circle.

Step 3: Place second row of blocks.

Tip: When installing the second layer, overlap the joints by placing the center of the bloc directly on top of the joint made by the two adjoining blocks beneath it.

Step 4: Fill the inside with 3/4″ crushed stone. This will allow the filtration of rain water.

Step 5: Once you have built up 4 rows of block then install the metal bowl insert and place the last layer of stone. Top it off with a spark screen and enjoy!

Get Inspired…

pre-made outdoor fire pits — Techo Bloc Prescott Fire Pit

You have to try this!

Want to spice up your fire pit and impress your guests? Check out how to make these super easy Pine Cone Fire Starter. You can create inviting scents of cinnamon and vanilla or rosemary and lavender. Click here to make your own Pine Cone Fire Starter.

pre-made outdoor fire pit pine cone fire starter — Pine Cone Fire Starter Tutorial from Kate’s Creative Space

TLC Supply carries a selection of pre-made outdoor fire pits from premium paver manufacturer’s Techo Bloc, Genest Concrete, Belgard and Cambridge Pavers. Please visit our website to see even more hardscape and masonry products ranging from bluestone,granite,brick,natural stone,block,sand,cement, and much more!

The experts at TLC Supply are happy to answer any of your project questions, just give us leave your questions or comments below.

“Best Price, Best Advice” -TLC Supply,Inc.

Breathable Siloxane Silane Sealers

October 23, 2015February 9, 2021 ~ RR

Siloxane based masonry and brick sealers that are breathable and penetrate into the substrate have many advantages over other surface sealers comprised of acrylics, silicone and epoxies.

Advantages of Sealers:
A breathable sealer will help protect masonry and hardscape in many ways such as,

Resist cracking
Resist spalling
Reduce staining
Protects against UV damage
Prevents efflorescence
Prevent other damage related to water intrusion

Why choose a silane/siloxane blend?

Siloxane based sealers penetrate deep into the capillaries of concrete pavers and brick. The chemical bond that the siloxane and silane creates inside the microscopic pores acts as a resin. It minimizes the sizes of the capillaries so that it is smaller than a water molecule which provides the repellency.

Penetration deep below the surface also means that your pavers will not lose protection if they are in a high traffic area. Sealers that sit on top on the paver can be eroded with heavy foot or vehicular traffic.

Siloxane/silane blends will also be 100% breathable. Concrete can absorb water 2 ways, from the surface and from the soil beneath it. These sealers will allow interior water to evaporate while also keeping surface water from penetrating into the paver. This is very important because sealers that do not allow the paver to breathe will trap moisture which can cause water to freeze and break the paver or brick during the colder months.

TLC Supply offers several professional grade detergents and breathable siloxane/silane sealers from industry leading brands such as Prosoco and Mapei. TLC also carries a wide selection of premium pavers from Techo Bloc, Genest, Belgard and Cambridge Pavers. Please visit our website to see even more hardscape and masonry products ranging from bluestone,granite,brick,natural stone,block,sand,cement, and much more!

Before you go check this out! You may even like our posts on How to Build a Paver Patio!

The experts at TLC Supply are happy to answer any of your project questions, just give us a shout! Leave your questions or comments below.

“Best Price, Best Advice” -TLC Supply,Inc.

Outdoor Kitchen

April 29, 2015February 9, 2021 ~ RR

Make your outdoor living space the envy of every charcoal chef in the neighborhood!

Bring together the pleasures of good food, warm weather, and the company of friends and family into your backyard! With an outdoor kitchen or grill island entertaining has never been better; you can prepare meals and be around your guests with minimal time spent running back and forth between the kitchen.

Transform a boring stainless steel grill into a wonderful work of art with natural stone veneer. Stone veneer comes in many different colors and shapes so whether your style is Rustic, Colonial, Contemporary, Modern, Tuscan or Log Cabin, you can create a beautiful outdoor kitchen that is tailored to your unique taste.

Pre-assembled outdoor kitchens and grills are available but our helpful guide will show you how to spice up your outdoor grill by creating a natural stone veneer grill island at a fraction of the cost!

7 Step Guide to Build a Natural Stone Veneer Grill Island

Step 1: Build the Frame

Before you begin your project there are a few things to take into consideration. Think about your entertaining needs and your budget. You will also want to determine the best location for your kitchen, the size requirements, design layout, countertop placement, and the appliances you’ll need. Finally, you must choose the best materials and equipment for accomplishing all your goals.

There are many options you can build an outdoor grill island out of but using concrete block as your frame is affordable, weather and fire resistant, and can be easy to work with. A good height to build your frame up to is 38 inches. This is a comfortable height for elbow resting and food preparation.

Be sure to build on a paved and level surface. Create open boxes in your design to allow for steel doors, drawers, or other storage compartments or to conceal a propane tank for a gas grill.

Step 2: Calculate Stone Veneer

Calculate the square footage of the area. Veneer stone is available in corner pieces and flat pieces. Corners are sold by the linear foot and flats are sold by the square foot.Be sure to subtract the areas that will be used for doors and other storage openings!

Step 3: Stone Veneer Layout

Lay out the stone on a flat surface to create a visual template of how you will place them on the finished grill island. It is helpful to start with the corner pieces and then fill the inside. Pieces may need to be cut to lay flush against the ground. Cut the pieces with a wet saw using a carbide or diamond tip blade. Be sure to wear protective eyewear and follow proper safety measures when cutting stone veneer.

Step 4: Apply Polymer Modified Mortar

We recommend using Ardex X5 which is a highly versatile, polymer modified mortar with an easy to apply creamy consistency. Ardex X5 will adhere to concrete block without the use of fabric or wire mesh. Using a trowel, apply a 1/4 inch layer of Ardex X5 to the back of the stone. Place the stone onto the wall and wiggle it gently to ensure even coating and a secure bond. If the mortar seeps out use a damp cloth to wipe it away.

Step 5: Point

Once the stone is in place you can grout the joints using Type S mortar mix. Use a joint slicker to carve out the wet mortar joints. Clean the stone with a damp cloth if any mortar gets on the surface of the stone.

Step 6: Install Fixtures

After the stone has dried (24 hours) install cabinet doors, fixtures, and a counter top. TLC Supply carries an assortment of bluestone, granite, blue mist granite, brownstone, and limestone treads which we can custom fabricate to fit on top of your outdoor grill island.

Step 7: Fire Up & Enjoy!

AssembledStone Veneer Grill Island — Belgard Assembled Grill

Stone Veneer Grill Island — Fieldstone Veneer Grill

Don’t feel like doing all the work? Pre-Assembled Grill Kits are available at TLC Supply from leading paver manufacturer’s Techo Bloc, Belgard, and Cambrige Pavers.

If you liked this page be sure to share it with all your friends! And for even more inspiring outdoor kitchens as well as great grilling recipes and outdoor entertaining ideas follow us on Pinterest!

And before you go, check this out! You may be interested in our post How to Build a Paver Patio!

The helpful staff at TLC Supply are happy to answer any of your project questions, just give us a shout! Just leave your comments below.

“Best Price, Best Advice” -TLC Supply,Inc.

Paver Pool Deck & Patio Ideas

March 30, 2015February 9, 2021 ~ RR

Patio pavers around a pool are a great way to create your very own private oasis right in your backyard! Make your outdoor swimming pool deck a stunning and inviting resort with patio pavers, slabs, pool coping, flagstone, or natural stone.

What better way is there to enjoy the upcoming warm days than relaxing or entertaining by your new pool with friends and family?

Did you know? Pavers are the perfect performer for pool decks! Since concrete pavers are designed with textured tops they make for a safe, comfortable, non-slip walking surface even when wet! In addition, the high density structure of pavers will help minimize penetrating moisture and reduce damage caused by freeze conditions.

Now Dive Right In! Take a Look at These 7 Beautiful Hardscape Poolsides!

Paver Patio Pool Deck Pavers — Bluestone Pillar Caps

4 Helpful Tips for Your Next Paver Pool Project!

TIP #1: To install a patio around your pool you would follow the same steps as installing a basic patio (click here for paver installation guide). The difference is that you will need to use an expansion joint around the perimeter of the pool that sits between the patio pavers and the pool coping.

There are several reasons why it is necessary to use a strip foam expansion. First, it will assist in freeze thaw cycles and even in hot weather because it will allow for flexibility and movement of the pavers. Secondly, it will help prevent any water from seeping down behind the pool shell and weakening the concrete joints.

To use the foam expansion you would simply place the foam around the perimeter of the pool coping. Then install your patio pavers as you normally would. The foam expansion will help keep out any poly sand you use to fill the paver joints. Next remove the 1/2 “ tear strip on the foam expansion and fill the void with a self-leveling pool caulk.

Tip #2: To keep pool caps from popping off you may want to use a fiber reinforced mortar such as Ardex X 32. We recommend Ardex X 32 because it is designed to handle the most challenging moisture sensitive stone, granite, marble, as well as tiles, both interior and exterior. Ardex X 32 is durable, easy to use, has great bonding capabilities and controlled setting time, and it will not warp or shrink.

Tip #3: You can even dress up the landscape around your pool even more by incorporating decorative plants and flowers. Add an accent trim to your surrounding garden with patio edging pavers or granite cobblestones. You can build raised planters with pavers or even with retaining walls.

Retaining walls and stone walls surrounding the pool area also serve as privacy walls. Incorporate stone pillars and fences to keep the area gated and safe while adding a touch of elegance.

Adding a cabana or pergola gives you and your family added protection from the sun and serves as an additional area for entertaining guests day or night.

Tip #4: If you want to take it to the next level you can incorporate other outdoor elements.

Feed your hungry guests from a new outdoor pizza oven (pre-cut and ready-to-assemble) and stay outside longer with fireplace and fire pit kits for those chilly nights. Pre-assembled fire pit kits are can be installed quickly and fit into any budget!

Let us know which poolside design was your favorite in the comments below!

TLC Supply carries a wide selection of premium pavers from Techo Bloc as well as from Genest Concrete, Belgard and Cambridge Pavers. Please visit our website to see even more hardscape and masonry products ranging from bluestone,granite,brick,natural stone,block,sand,cement, and much more!

If you liked this page be sure to share it with all your friends! And for even more inspiring paver pool decks, patios, as well as backyard DIY projects and outdoor entertaining ideas follow us on Pinterest!

WAIT! Before you go check this out! You may even like our posts on How to Build a Paver Patio! or Ardex Mortar – The Efficient & Easy Way to Install Stone!

The experts at TLC Supply are happy to answer any of your project questions, just give us a shout! Send us an email to info@tlcsupply.com or leave your comments below.

“Best Price, Best Advice” -TLC Supply,Inc.

Ardex|Polymer Modified Thin Set Mortar

March 30, 2015February 9, 2021 ~ RR

ARDEX is recognized around the world as the innovation and performance leader for tile and stone installation.They are leading the advancement of mortar and grout technologies with their revolutionary MicroTec® formulation.

ARDEX delivers proven solutions to the most complex installation problems for concrete repair and resurfacing, substrate preparation, flooring installation or for setting natural stone.

Keep reading to learn how Ardex can make traditional and difficult installations easier and much more efficient for professionals and homeowners!

Ardex offers many great products but for now we are just going to focus on two phenomenal mortar blends that are major game changers!

Ardex X5 Polymer Modified Thin Set Mortar

Ardex X5 is so easy and efficient to use that you will save time and money on every stone veneer, thin brick, and tile job.

Are you tired of mixing your own mortar and the complications that come along with it? Like having to mix too many components, not having enough pot life, or crumbling and making too much of a mess? Are you frustrated when you aren’t able to move stone once its set? Do you want to speed up installation time and save money? Well, Ardex X5 will help solve all your problems.

Ardex X5 is a unique flexible stone mortar that is taking tile and stone installation to the next level. This highly versatile, polymer modified mortar has an easy to apply creamy consistency that is perfect for setting all sizes of porcelain, ceramic, quarry, mosaic and most natural stone tile on both exterior and interior surfaces. You can create the natural concrete look without the heaviness of a thick mortar bed and best of all, anyone can use ARDEX X5 with great success!

Ardex X5 Key Features:

– Flexible – Single component

– Sag resistant – Water and frost resistant

– Easy to mix and apply – 3 hour pot life

– 10 Year Warranty – Up to 140 Sq Ft of coverage per bag.

– 15-20 mins of working time to adjust stone after installation

Did you know? Unlike traditional mortars, Ardex X5 can be used in cold temperature! If you are working on an outside job and the temperature drops, you can leave your work and return to it the next day. Ardex X5 will go into “hibernation mode” when the weather drops below a certain temperature and will not be disrupted. Rain will not affect Ardex X5 either! Simply wipe off any excess Ardex and return to the job when it is no longer raining.

To Apply: Cover the substrate with Ardex X5 using a ¼” notch trowel. If you have irregular shaped stone that needs adjusting then you can apply ¼” of Ardex to the back of the stone and then apply to the wall. You may opt to apply a scratch coat or netting to the wall prior to application but it is not necessary. Ardex X5 will stick to wood, duro wall, and anything else.

Ardex X32 MICROTEC® Fiber Reinforced Rapid Setting Thin-to-Thick Bed Mortar

Ardex X32 is very similar to Ardex X5 but it is made for horizontal application and it works best for moisture sensitive stone. A major issue that many professionals and homeowners are seeing is that their stone tread (whether it be bluestone, granite, etc.) or pool coping is popping off. This is because it is being glued down by either an adhesive or cement mortar. When water seeps in between (and freezes during colder months) the adhesion breaks down and causes the stone to separate.

Ardex X32’s self-drying MICROTEC® formulation is designed to handle the most challenging moisture sensitive natural stone, marble and granite installations, as well as set all other types of tile in exterior or interior applications. It is also ideal for all types of natural stone including ungauged and agglomerate stone.

Ardex X32 Key Features:

– Single component – Easy to mix and apply

– Flexible – Sag resistant

– Fiber glass reinforced – Waterproof

– Non shrink – Fast setting (walk on after 3 hrs)

– Great for leveling uneven stone – 1 hour pot life thickness.

– No more treads and caps popping off! – 20-30 minutes to adjust stone after installation.

You can use Ardex X32 as a thin, medium, or thick bed mortar for installations up to one inch thick over exterior and interior concrete, masonry surfaces, and plywood. Ardex X32 will not stain, warp, or discolor moisture sensitive stone.

WAIT! Before you go check this out! You may even like our post on Pool Deck & Patio Ideas!

The experts at TLC Supply are happy to answer any of your project questions, just give us a shout! Send us an email to info@tlcsupply.com or leave your comments below.

“Best Price, Best Advice” -TLC Supply,Inc.

How to Build a Paver Patio!

March 18, 2015February 9, 2021 ~ RR

Building a patio out of paving stones or “interlocking concrete pavers” can be a beautiful and valuable addition to your home and can offer a durable, low maintenance area for you and your family to enjoy. You may opt to hire a professional mason but with these 10 steps you can install a paver patio all on your own!

Here are 10 Steps to help you build your very own outdoor paver patio!

Paver Patio, Techo Bloc — Athena Pavers by Techo Bloc

Step 1: Plan

Determine what kind of paver you would like to use for your patio. There are many paving stone manufacturer’s to choose from that offer pavers in many different shapes, colors, sizes, and cost.

Did You Know? TLC Supply carries only the highest quality pavers backed by a lifetime manufacturer’s guarantee.

During this stage you will also want to determine the size, length, and design of your patio. Next, calculate your square footage to determine how much material you will need by multiplying length by width. You may even prefer to make a pattern.Research your selected paver manufacturer to see what patterns you can make with their pavers. Some patterns will require more or less pavers. Call TLC Supply for help in determining the amount of pavers you may need.

Step 2: Prepare the area

Clear any plants, roots, large rocks, or existing material that may interfere with the patio or cause unevenness.

Step 3: Mark the area

Use chalk line to mark out the area and if you are doing a curved design you can use a garden hose to mark the shape you wish to take and trace with chalk or paint. Then drive stakes into the ground following your laid out sketch. Wrap string around the stakes to outline the perimeter of the patio. Be sure to keep the string level so that your patio will be leveled.

Tip: It is actually the law to call your local utility company or “Dig Safe” and have them identify any buried gas, water, or electrical lines before you start digging.

Step 4: Excavate

Measure the thickness of your paver then dig a depth of 6”-8” below the bottom of the paver. This excavation should also allow room so that the pavers end up being flush with the ground. To avoid puddling you will want to slightly slope the patio in one direction so water can run off.

Tip: You can lay boards across the area and use a level to help you determine the slope.

Step 5: Back Fill

Fill the sunken area with 4”-6” of base material such as ¾” dense grade. This will help provide a solid base and aid in proper water percolation into the soil.

Tip: Fill the area with dense grade in 2” increments and compact with a machine plate compacter. This will ensure that the material is tightly packed. Pour another 2” of dense grade and repeat the steps until everything is compacted evenly to a depth of about 6”.You can even spray the area with water to help keep the dust down when tampering.

Step 6: Sand

Apply a 1”-2” layer of concrete sand over the dense grade and compact it.

Tip: We recommend concrete sand rather than mason sand because it will provide more stability and assist in water percolation.

Now lay down two pieces of round level piping and push it a little into the sand. Depending on the width of your patio you may need to use a longer or shorter pipe. Doing this is going to help ensure your base is level before applying the pavers. Now spread more sand to make sure it is flush with the pipe. You can use a 2 x 4 to screed the sand to a smooth surface. If you cut a 1 3⁄4-in.-deep notch at each end of the 2 x 4, you can rest the notches on the edge restraints while you pull the 2 x 4 across the sand. Once the area is leveled, gently remove the pipe and fill the void with sand and smooth the area out.

Step 7: Lay the Pavers

Start laying the pavers in your desired pattern. Keep the pavers close together and gently press them down with a rubber mallet. If a paver is uneven you can tap it down more into place. If a paver is too low you can add a little sand to the area and rest the paver on top. To better fit pieces you may need to use a wet saw or a paver guillotine to cut pieces to the desired measurement.

Step 8: Edging

Add plastic edging to the sides to define the perimeter of the walkway and to hold the pavers in place. Hold the edging in place with spikes. We recommend B.E.A.S.T. Plastic Paver Edging for its strength and flexibility. B.E.A.S.T. edging comes in 8 ft. sections and can be nailed in with 10” or 12” spikes. This edging is also made from recycled material and it allows for the growth of vegetation.

How to build a paver patio — So far you should have something that looks like this!

Step 9: Fill Paver Joints

When you finish laying the pavers pour polymeric sand over the top and gently sweep the sand over the whole area to fill the joints. Tamper the top to ensure compaction. You may need to add more sand and fill the joints again. When the joints are compacted and filled you should sweep away any excess sand with a broom. We highly suggest lightly blowing over the area with a leaf blower to ensure that the sand is off the surface of the pavers (polymeric sand will harden when wet). Then you will want to mist the patio with water to secure the sand and pavers.

Tip: We recommend using polymeric sand over mason sand because it contains binders that help maintain a firm bond between the pavers which in turn help to secure them in place.

Step 10: Touch Up

Fill in any missing areas with topsoil or grass. The roots of the grass will grow through the holes in the edge restraint to further lock it in place. You also can also add cobble stones or paver edging and even plant flowers or shrubs for a finishing touch to your patio.

Tip: Decorate your patio with furniture or even add a pergola, an easy to assemble fire pit, or you can even veneer the front of a grill to create an outdoor kitchen! The possibilities are endless in your new outdoor living space. Fill it with things that make you and your family happy.

Recommended: We highly recommend sealing your pavers with a breathable sealer to help prevent any staining.

*You can always follow this guide to install a paver walkway as well.

Paver Patio, Techo Bloc Linea — Linea by Techo Bloc

Patio Paver Techo Bloc Aberdeen — Aberdeen by Techo Bloc

Paver Patio Techo Bloc Athena — Athena by Techo Bloc

TLC Supply carries a wide selection of premium pavers from Techo Bloc as well as from Belgard, Cambridge Paving Stone, and Genest (coming soon!). Please visit our website to see even more hardscape and masonry products ranging from bluestone,granite,brick,natural stone,block,sand, and cement!

If you liked this page be sure to share it with all your friends! And for even more inspiring paver patios as well as backyard DIY projects and outdoor entertaining ideas follow us on Pinterest!

WAIT! Before you go check this out! You may even like our post 10 Unique Hardscape Ideas!

We are happy to answer any of your project questions, just give us a shout! Send us an email to info@tlcsupply.com or leave your comments below.

“Best Price, Best Advice” -TLC Supply,Inc.

10 Unique Hardscape Ideas

March 3, 2015February 9, 2021 ~ RR

10 Hardscape Ideas You Can Do to Enhance Your Backyard Living!

Incorporating hardscape into your landscape design is a great way to add major curb appeal and value to your home.

There are many ways you can create an enticing and beautiful backyard and/or frontyard that your whole family will enjoy for years to come. Check out these ideas below!

Idea #1: Use various colors and textures to create eye catching paver patterns and mosaics.

Chevron Hardscape Pattern — Techo Bloc Borealis Chevron Pattern

Pavers Techo Bloc — Techo Bloc Travertina

Hardscape Pavers — Techo Bloc Antika / Blu Grande

Idea #2: Include custom design work by engraving your stone.

Custom Stone Fabrication — TLC Custom Fabrication

Idea #3: Bring the waterpark to your backyard with permeable pavers by building a fountain play area for kids or pets.

Idea #4: Entertain your guests with outdoor kitchens, pizza ovens, fireplace kits, and recessed seating areas.

Outdoor Fireplace — Techo Bloc Mini Creta

Outdoor Kitchen Hardscape — Belgard Harmony Element Kitchen

Hardscape Outdoor Fire Pit — Techo Bloc Valencia Firepit

Idea #5: Add decorative paver edging and cobble stones to a garden or create raised planters to keep pet’s out of your beautiful flowers.

Hardscape Retaining Wall Stone — Belgard Retaining Wall Stone

Idea #6: Dress up a garden with natural stepping stone, garden stones, or slate pavers.

Natural Stone Step — Techo Bloc Maya Step

Idea #7: Create the illusion of separate spaces by using different pavers in various areas and separating spaces with retaining wall systems or pillars.

Idea #8: Light up the night with paver and outdoor lighting.

Hardscape Patio Ideas — Techo Bloc Raffinato

Idea #9: Bring the resort spa into your backyard with natural stone and stone veneer.

Natural Stone Veneer — Natural Stone / Veneer

Idea #10: Relax with the soothing sound of an outdoor water feature or pond.

Start planning your springtime hardscape project with TLC Supply. We are open year round so come on down with your plans, pictures, and ideas. Beat the rush by planning early and let us dedicate our time to you so that you can create the wonderful outdoor living space you’ve been dreaming of all winter.

TLC Supply carries a wide selection of premium pavers from Techo Bloc as well as from Belgard, Cambridge Paving Stone, and Genest. Please visit our website to see even more hardscape and masonry products ranging from bluestone,granite,brick,natural stone,block,sand, and cement!

If you liked this page be sure to share it with all your friends! And for even more inspiring paver patios as well as backyard DIY projects and outdoor entertaining ideas follow us on Pinterest!

WAIT! Before you go check this out! You may even like our post How to Build a Paver Patio!

We are happy to answer any of your project questions, just give us a shout! Send us an email to info@tlcsupply.com or leave your comments below.

“Best Price, Best Advice” -TLC Supply,Inc.

Realstone Veneer Panels!

February 3, 2015February 9, 2021 ~ RR

It may be chilly and snowy outside but that doesn’t mean you can’t complete your home makeover project. Stay inside where it is warm and cozy and opt to transform an interior wall or fireplace with stone veneer panels from Realstone Systems! The best part is that these panels are made to fit snug, making layering a cinch. What else does this mean? It means that this can be an easy do-it-yourself project that can be completed in one weekend! Stone veneer can transform any interior or exterior wall into an eye-catching focal point!

Realstone Systems® is one of the largest top quality stone veneer product lines in the industry. They have stunning new designs available that will add a timeless look to any project! Let’s take a look…

Hive Tiles are one new product from Realstone Systems® that will add a unique look to any room. Hive tiles feature deep relief patterns comprised of repeating hexagons. These tiles are made of engineered marble and travertine stone by recycling waste marble and travertine powder. Choose from four different options, Barn Wood, Chiseled Cream, Etched Cream, and Drift Wood. Each style will come together to create a visually stunning display!

Portugal Collection Panels are another striking addition. These panels bring together the natural beauty of real stone in a model and sleek style. Create a multitude of patterns and styles with these three set patterns that come in four distinctive shades, Terra Limestone, Cinza Marble, Venato Marble, and Areia Limestone.

If you prefer a more natural stone look you can always go for Ledgestone, which is a thin stone veneer that features a rough cut, split face stone with a weathered finish. The varying profile of the stone gives depth and texture while displaying the natural beauty of stone. Realstone® Ledgestone patterns come in many colors and are the most traditional pieces. They are perfect for achieving that rustic and natural look.

How do I install dry stacked stone veneer panels?

Please note that this is a general guideline to installing veneer panels.

Step 1: Calculate the square footage of the area. Veneer comes in corner pieces and flat pieces. Corners are sold by the linear foot and flats are sold by the square foot. To figure out the square footage simply multiply length by height. To calculate the liner footage for corners simply measure the height of all walls and add together. Be sure to subtract the areas filled by doors, windows, and fireplace openings! This will help determine how much material you will need to complete your project.

Step 2: Prepare the surface area by removing the existing material. Make sure that the remaining drywall is sound and level. If not then be sure to take the necessary steps to patch or repair it.

Step 3: Apply a cement underlayment board such as Durock® Cement Board to the surface of the wall. View installation here.

Step 4: Apply scratch coat. We recommend using Ardex X5 which is a flexible tile and stone mortar. Then comb through the mortar using a notch trowel. Doing so will create grooves and a textured surface for the stone to adhere to. Allow the scratch coat to dry overnight.

Step 5: Lay out the stone on a flat surface to create a visual template of how you will place them on the finished wall or fireplace. It is helpful to start with the corner pieces and then fill the inside. Pieces may need to be cut to lay flush against the floorboard, ceiling, or fireplace opening. You may cut the pieces with a wet saw using a carbide or diamond tip blade. Be sure to wear protective eyewear and follow proper safety measures when cutting stone veneer.

Step 6: Using a trowel, apply a 1/4 inch layer of Ardex X5 to the back of the stone. Place the stone onto the wall and wiggle it gently to ensure even coating and a secure bond. If the mortar seeps out you may use a damp cloth to wipe it away.

For more installation tips and techniques please visit Realstone.com.

As always if you have any questions please contact the experts at TLC Supply, Inc. We will help you every step of the way!

*If you are interested in Realstone products please call TLC Supply for availability.

Natural Stone Veneer — A Great Fireplace Update!

November 5, 2014February 9, 2021 ~ RR

New England Fieldstone Boston Blend Mosaic Thin Veneer from Stoneyard.com

Natural stone veneer will bring warmth, style and individuality to your old or new fireplace.

Stoneyard.com has posted examples of modern and traditional indoor fireplaces to inspire you, as well as examples of colors, shapes and installation styles that are part of the decision making process.

TLC Supply is your distributor for Stoneyard.com. TLC Supply also has a wide variety of shapes, colors and sizes of cultured stone veneer a man-made product that looks similar to natural stone.