Norristown Brick

Where going green makes sense.
By Freda Savana

Always ahead of the curve, Norristown Brick has the latest in environmentally-friendly EP Henry paver and wall systems. They offer homeowners the finest materials available for all of their hardscaping projects, in addition to giving them the satisfaction of knowing they are doing the right thing for the earth.

As concern for the environment continues to grow for both property owners and developers of all sizes, Norristown Brick has taken notice. With townships and other governmental agencies increasingly requiring communities to abide by storm water management practices that allow water to infiltrate back into the ground, the forward thinking business is on the cutting edge, offering the latest in environmentally sensitive products.
To address the mounting demand, Norristown Brick and Supply Company, a key EP Henry authorized distributor, has a large inventory of Permeable Interlocking Concrete Paving (PICP) systems, which can be used in both retrofitting and new construction projects. EP Henry’s ECO Paver is a PICP that is beautiful, durable and most importantly, permits water to recharge the earth’s aquifers.

“We are extremely knowledgeable with this product and can offer expert advice on installation,” said Randy Swire, Norristown Brick’s manager, who noted demand for the environmentally sound product is rapidly growing.
Norristown Brick, located at 741 Forrest Ave. in Norristown, backs all of its products for every job with on-time delivery and exceptional ease in selection. Highly respected for its superior customer service, they offer the most extensive manufactured product line in Montgomery County. Norristown Brick makes the art of transforming an outdoor space into a natural extension of your living area both beautiful and easy.

Manager Randy Swire, who oversees a fulltime staff of 14, said the company believes hardscaping forms the backbone of a homeowners’ yard or garden. Whether it’s a patio, deck, walkways, retaining walls or a combination of many elements, the hardscape is the framework for the property. Daron, who is also able to speak Spanish fluently for customers, tends the counter at Norristown Brick and works alongside Jessica, who gives a woman’s touch when needed and is able to handle all EP Henry orders and designs.
While residential customers make up the majority of Norristown Brick’s business, the company is also well equipped for commercial projects, which make up about 40 percent of its customers. Norristown Brick stands out from the rest by offering an EP Henry paver for every budget, making them a favorite among locals.

Among the many satisfied customers that have used ECO Pavers is Dansko, the Danish-American shoe company, with new headquarters in Penn Township, Pa. In an effort to both sustain the natural environment and improve the work environment of its employees, the owners of Dansko set out to build green. Along the way, they discovered so many cost-effective methods to incorporate earth-friendly materials, they believe they’ve met the gold standard for criteria set by the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System.

Barbara Goldman and her husband found the perfect product for their home renovation project in EP Henry’s ECO Paver too. When the couple purchased their home in 2005, they knew it was in need of a complete overhaul. “As we began working on the house, we became committed to making it as energy efficient and environmentally friendly as possible.” said Barbara Goldman.
Barbara began her search for materials online, and came upon EP Henry’s ECO Paver. The ECO Paver is permeable, allowing water to infiltrate to the subsoil, which is one of its environmental benefits. The pavers also have a beautiful texture, and offered a gray color that worked well with the hues of the Goldman’s house. “There is a very stately feel to the driveway, as is rises off of the street. Everyone who has come to the house loves the pavers.”
After the construction and renovations were complete, it became clear that the Goldman’s had done enough with their home to become LEED certified. “Becoming LEED certified sets a good example and creates awareness. To build green, or eco-friendly does not mean you have to sacrifice beauty or quality,” Goldman commented.

“As we began working on the house, we became committed to making it as energy efficient and environmentally friendly as possible,” said Goldman.
Norristown Brick and Supply believes hardscaping forms the backbone of a homeowner’s property and ECO Pavers can be a beautiful, sustainable and environmentally sensitive addition to any home or business.

Norristown Brick is located at 741 Forrest Avenue in Norristown. For more information, call (610) 539-1960 or visit www.norristownbrick.com.

Freda Savana is a freelance writer and lives in Doylestown.