step units

Hardscaping Inspiration: Step Units

Whether it takes 5 or 50 steps to get up to your front door or back patio, adding steps can be an expensive project. The Borgert step unit is a more affordable alternative to some of the costlier step materials like natural stone or granite. And because our step unit is attractive, durable and easy to install, you’ll save time and money without sacrificing the overall appearance of your steps.

Here are some of our favorite step unit designs. Visit our product gallery to for more inspiration!

Lush Landscaping

step units

We love how the combination of softscape materials and low lighting play off the natural appearance of the concrete step unit, in our Minnesota River color blend.

 

Clean and Simple

Our Limestone color blend creates a look that is both minimalist and sophisticated.

 

Unique Combinations

Our color blends allow you to customize the exact look of your steps, as demonstrated here in this unique layout of our Minnesota River blend.

 

Staggered Steps

Incorporating landings in to the step design allows for visual breaks in the steps (as shown here in our North Shore color blend), as well as physical breaks for those who climb them regularly!

 

Contrasting Colors

Use surrounding materials, such as rocks, mulch and wall units, to create contrast with steps. Here, our Buff color blend was installed with lighter-colored rocks and darker mulch to create gorgeous contrast.

 

Make your yard memorable! Calculate your project needs with our paver calculator, then contact us to learn more about how our high-quality step units can fit into your outdoor design.

Borgert is a Minnesota-based, family-owned company specializing in premium concrete pavers and slabs, patios, driveways, fire rings and fire pits, outdoor fireplaces and retaining walls. Since 1923, we have been committed to providing high quality hardscaping products that help our customers’ dream landscapes become a reality. Get a quote today on your Borgert products.

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drenapave

Driveway Inspiration: DrenaPave™ and DrenaMontage™

Do you deal with excessive runoff after a heavy rain? Are you looking for a more sustainable option for your driveway? Or do you simply want a unique, attractive driveway pavement option that is easy to maintain? Whatever your goals, consider using our DrenaPave™ and DrenaMontage™ specially-designed permeable concrete paving stones to mitigate storm water runoff.

Our DrenaPave™ or DrenaMontage™ permeable concrete pavement systems provide stormwater management right in your driveway. The pavers naturally filter out harmful pollutants such as oil and nitrates, reducing harmful runoff and improving overall water quality. In addition, rain is absorbed through the interlocking stones, which minimizes spot flooding and prevents water from running off into ditches and drains.

The best part? Our permeable systems have the same strength and durability as traditional interlocking concrete pavers, and maintenance is simple.

We’re sharing a few of our favorite DrenaPave™ and DrenaMontage™ driveway ideas below. Visit our product galleries for more!

Inspired by Up North

DrenaPave

Reminiscent of the natural beauty of Northern Minnesota, the Iron Range family of colors creates a warm, inviting look for any driveway, entryway or parking lot.

Warm Tones

drenapave

The Minnesota River blend creates a warm look that complements brick or natural tones in a home and landscape design.

Contrasting Colors

drenapave

Using different color families for edging and accents creates visual interest and a unique look. Mix and match pavement stones for a custom, memorable look.

DrenaPave™ and DrenaMontage™ is an excellent way to achieve a high-end driveway look while minimizing your effect on the environment. Contact us to learn more about these innovative products!

Borgert is a Minnesota-based, family-owned company specializing in premium concrete pavers and slabs, patios, driveways, fire rings and fire pits, outdoor fireplaces and retaining walls. Since 1923, we have been committed to providing high quality hardscaping products that help our customers’ dream landscapes become a reality. Get a quote today on your Borgert products.

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Patio Inspiration: Kastle Flats

Our outdoor living spaces are true extensions of our homes. We eat and entertain on patios, laying poolside and hosting friends on warm summer nights. So why shouldn’t a patio be stylish? With Kastle Flats slabs, that is easily achieved.

Borgert Products’ Kastle Flats bridges the gap between modern and contemporary, bold and classic. With three available sizes and two color families, this distinctive slab creates endless possibilities for a custom design. The large scale and light texture makes a Kastle Flats patio or walkway unique and memorable.

We’ll share a few photos of our favorite Kastle Flats patios below. For more, including pattern examples, visit the product page, idea gallery, or check out our latest catalog.

The Right Shade

Kastle Flats

Kastle Flats is available in two shades: Sterling Gray in gray tones and Classic Bronze in brown tones. Here, Sterling Gray was used to perfectly complement the black building and the gray rock, creating a cohesive – and stunning – look.

A Unique Pattern

This close-up shows one of the many patterns that can be made with Kastle Flats slabs. Mix and match the three available sizes – 8×16, 16×16 and 16×24 – for a one-of-a-kind design.

Large Scale Projects

In larger projects, such as this expansive patio and walkway, small pavers could appear too busy and actually make the space look smaller. Kastle Flats’ slabs fit the large space more comfortably.

Perfect for the Pool

Don’t pour a concrete pool deck! Instead, create a high-end poolside experience with Kastle Flats slabs. This beautiful patio shows the color variations in the Classic Bronze color family. Notice how the colors differ slightly to create yet another unique look.

 

To learn more about the Kastle Flats slab, or to get a custom quote, visit the product page and contact us today.

 

Borgert is a Minnesota-based, family-owned company specializing in pavers, patios, driveways and retaining walls. Since 1923, we have been committed to providing high quality products that help our customers dream landscapes become a reality. Get a quote today on your Borgert products.

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Removing a Concrete Patio to Make Way for Pavers

Will this be the year that you finally get rid of that old, cracked or crumbling concrete patio? Tearing up a concrete patio and replacing it with durable, versatile Borgert Products pavers is a great way to update the look and feel of your yard, as well add visual appeal and value to your home.

Tearing up a concrete patio seems daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right equipment (or a good contractor), it can be done quickly and easily. Read on for tips from the experts at Houzz.

concrete patio

The Details:

Typical project length: one day

Project considerations: Utilities should be contacted to ensure that there aren’t any gas lines beneath the patio. The project will probably be noisy, so it’s a good idea to give neighbors a heads-up.

Permit required: Typically no permit will be required for the demolition, but it’s a good idea to check with the city just in case.

The Process:

Before beginning demolition, place plywood over nearby windows, in case pieces of concrete spray and crack or break the glass.

Next, begin removing the concrete! If you’re not removing the entire patio but just reducing its size, use a concrete cutting saw to cut concrete joints out. If you’re taking out the whole patio, use the saw and a jackhammer to break the concrete into chunks that can be manually removed. Check with your municipality for guidelines on how to dispose of old concrete, or repurpose it somewhere else in your outdoor space, such as a stacked garden wall.

Finally, replace that old outdated patio with beautiful and durable Borgert pavers! Check out our galleries for patio inspiration, or request a catalog!

 

Borgert is a Minnesota-based, family-owned company specializing in pavers, patios, driveways and retaining walls. Since 1923, we have been committed to providing high quality products that help our customers dream landscapes become a reality. Get a quote today on your Borgert products.

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Tips for Installation of a Borgert Outdoor Fireplace

A fireplace is a practical and eye-catching addition to any patio or outdoor space. In addition to the visual impact, an outdoor fireplace will provide warmth, effectively extending the life of your patio during the cooler spring and fall months.

As an exclusive dealer of King of Hearths fireplaces and ovens, Borgert Products offers an outdoor fireplace unit that is constructed from lightweight concrete. It is fully lined with fire brick for maximum safety. Our fireplaces are engineered for mortarless veneering, and are exceptionally strong, ensuring that they will withstand weather and remain in peak condition for many years.

outdoor fireplace

Here are a few tips on outdoor fireplace installation. For a detailed step-by-step installation guide, visit our Borgert Resource Guide.

Pad

You will need to remove all plant matter and topsoil from under the slab or hearth. Replace that organic material with gravel which must be compacted for support. If a pad is required (which will depend on fireplace size and positioning), ensure it’s at least six inches deep, with other measurements customized to the type and size of the fireplace unit. Install a rebar mat in a checkerboard pattern with 12-inch centers. Cure the pad for seven days before placing the fireplace.

Conditioning

Once the fireplace is placed per specific installation instructions, it is recommended to build a few small fireplaces before the facing is applied. This will temper the unit, helping to bring the materials to a near final rest before the facing is applied.

Safety

There should be no combustible materials placed within four feet of the fireplace opening. This includes trees and plants, wood decking and furniture. The fireplace stack is equipped for a chimney cap – ensure that the cap has a spark arrestor. Only burn wood; never garbage or other materials. Make sure the burning area is completely dry before starting a fire.

 

Get the most out of our short Midwest summers with a Borgert Products outdoor fireplace. Contact us to get started.

Borgert is a Minnesota-based, family-owned company specializing in pavers, patios, driveways and retaining walls. Since 1923, we have been committed to providing high quality products that help our customers dream landscapes become a reality. Get a quote today on your Borgert products.

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Four Practical Applications for Borgert Pavements

Many think of pavers and pavement products as designed only for patios, walkways and steps. But that’s far from the case. There are several lesser-known applications for Borgert pavements in private and commercial spaces. And by using our versatile, durable products, you can create a space that is unique in appearance and easy to maintain. We’ll discuss a few practical applications for Borgert pavements below, and make sure to visit our project galleries for more ideas and inspiration!

Borgert pavements

Streets

If you’re in a cold climate, you know that spring means potholes. The many freeze-thaw cycles that occur throughout the winter weaken asphalt and cause holes to form. This is not the case when streets are surfaced using pavers. Borgert pavements are flexible to withstand freeze-thaw cycles, and any pavers that do crack or break can be replaced quickly, easily and affordably.

In addition to the practical benefits, there are aesthetic advantages as well. Create a unique, beautiful space, using pavers instead of paint to delineate lines and spaces. The options are endless!

Public Spaces

Using pavers in public spaces allows for the creation of unique spaces that can be customized to fit a business or community. Apply pavers in patterns to create a one-of-a-kind design. Our pavements are made to meet the high standards of architects and designers, creating durable and enduring public spaces.

Plazas and Entryways

Create a memorable first impression and elevate the visitor experience with a unique and easily-identifiable entryway or plaza. Our wide selection allows you to complement existing styles with matching colors and designs.

Universities

Use different colors and textures to create unity, consistency and visual appeal throughout campus, increasing aesthetic value while lowering maintenance costs. Pavers can be used to delineate spaces or create designs, creating distinction among departments while maintaining unity.

Ready to discuss pavement options for your commercial project? Give us a call.

Borgert is a family-owned company specializing in pavers, patios, driveways and retaining walls. We are based in Minneapolis and serve the entire Twin Cities metro area and beyond. Since 1923, we have been committed to providing high quality products that help our customers dream landscapes become a reality. Get a quote today on your Borgert products.

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Driveway Inspiration: Permeable Pavements

Permeable pavements are a great choice for driveways, walkways and patios – for several reasons. The pavements will act as a stormwater management solution, reducing harmful runoff and naturally filtering out pollutants like oil, grease, phosphates and nitrates. Permeable pavements are durable and strong. They don’t frost, heave or crack, and prevent ice from forming.

Our DrenaPave™ and DrenaMontage™ permeable pavement systems are perfectly designed for driveways, as well as walkways and patios. Available in three colors and ADA compliant, they’re an excellent choice for any driveway project. Here are some of our favorite driveway looks to get you started!

Radial Accent

permeable pavements

Add contrast and visual interest to your driveway with radial accents. The DrenaPave™ and DrenaMontage™ Permeable Pavements allow for easy customization, so you can achieve the design and look you want!

 

Contrasting Colors

permeable pavements

Mix sizes and colors for a unique and memorable look. This is the Minnesota River blend of three colors, which is the only permeable random pattern in this market. There are three size options – 6×6, 6×12 and 12×12.

 

Perfect Choice for Big Projects

permeable pavements

Got a big driveway, patio or walkway? The DrenaPave™ and DrenaMontage™ Permeable Pavements are an affordable and cost-effective option for large-scale projects.

 

Extend the Look Past the Driveway

permeable pavements

Our permeable pavements are perfect for more than just driveways! Create a streamlined look throughout the exterior of your home and business by installing DrenaPave™ and DrenaMontage™ in your walkway, patio and even the parking lot! Mix and match colors and sizes for a custom yet cohesive look.

 

Inspired by any of the driveway looks you see here? Let’s chat.

Borgert is a family-owned company specializing in pavers, patios, driveways and retaining walls. We serve the entire Twin Cities metro area and beyond. Since 1923, we have been committed to providing high quality products that help our customers dream landscapes become a reality. Get a quote today on your Borgert products.

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How Borgert Innovates with Lighter Retaining Wall Blocks

Borgert is constantly innovating the pavement industry to bring you the best solutions. Did you know how our PanoMur® Retaining Wall saves you money down the line? Borgert PanoMur® Wall is a lighter, more cost-efficient solution to getting more bang for your buck.

Truck with Retaining Wall Blocks

Double the Product for Less Cost

Our PanoMur® block only weighs 49 lbs. per block versus our competitors’ average 80-82 lbs. per block. The PanoMur® Wall can fill up about 646.8 square feet on the semi-truck, compared to our competitors’ average of only filling up 386.1 square feet of materials per truck load.

This means semis can ship up to 48,000 pounds on one load which is a whopping 21 pallets. That means less trips with the semi and more savings direct to you, as well as less waiting around for larger quantities of stock to arrive.

About PanoMur® Wall

The PanoMur® Wall has a hollow core and these units allow maximum flexibility and ease of installation while maintaining high structural integrity for gravity walls. Currently, the colors available for our PanoMur® Wall units are Sterling Gray, Minnesota River, and Buff, and these units can be curved or straight faced. Another bonus of our PanoMur®Wall is that our block is self-supporting with built-in legs and does not require pins.

Check out our PanoMur® Wall in action in our galleries.

Truck with Retaining Wall Blocks

Borgert is a family-owned company specializing in pavers, slabs, and retaining walls. We are based in Central Minnesota and serve the Midwest including MN, WI, ND, IA, SD, Northern IL, MT, CO, NE. Since 1923, we have been committed to providing high quality products that help our customers dream landscapes become a reality. Find your local Borgert distributor.

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Patio Inspiration: Walls

Our Strassen® Wall collection is a free-standing wall, is very versatile, and can complement any backyard feature. These walls can have installed waterfalls, are good for seating walls, can have tops for planting greenery and much more. Be inspired by how Strassen® Walls can enhance your backyard.

Backyard Oasis

Escape to a fairy tale oasis that’s complete with greenery planted in Strassen® Walls, perfectly placed spotlights to light up the path, and a candlelight dinner for two!

Cozy Campfire

Invite over friends for a fun evening sitting around a fire ring and enjoying the outdoors. Feel secluded from the world and all of its troubles with our enclosed Strassen® Wall and surrounding trees and brush.

Color Splash

Splash up your backyard with these colorful Strassen® Walls that use both fun peach spring and summer colors as well as the gray tones that will match the fall and winter seasons. Pair these retaining walls with rock landscaping, grassy areas, tables and more- the possibilities are endless!

Summer Day Chilling

Sit back and relax after a long day of work. Our Strassen® Walls are not only pieces to enjoy looking at, but they are also practical- no more setting down your drink and magazine under you chair and then tripping over them later! Utilize the Strassen® Wall as a perfect place for setting your books, glasses and more!

Waterfall Paradise

Enjoy the sounds of nature with the trickling water fall feature installed in our Strassen® Wall. You won’t have to go far to feel like you are sitting by a creek or a waterfall in the forest; you will have your own waterfall in your front yard or backyard!

Inspired by any of the looks you see here? Let’s chat. 

Borgert is a family-owned company specializing in pavers, slabs, and retaining walls. We are based in Central Minnesota and serve the Midwest including MN, WI, ND, IA, SD, Northern IL, MT, CO, NE. Since 1923, we have been committed to providing high quality products that help our customers dream landscapes become a reality. Find your local Borgert distributor.

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