Allendale has the feel of a small town set in the woods. Streets curve past colonials, split-levels and ranches from the middle of the last century, along with newer homes built on larger parcels, and most of them share one thing: mature trees. That canopy is a big part of why people love living here, and it is also the main factor we plan around when we design hardscape in town.
Designing around trees and shade
Roots, falling leaves and shade change how outdoor surfaces behave. Roots can lift a walkway that was set on a thin base, and damp, shaded stone stays wet after a rain. On Allendale properties we usually start by mapping where the big trees are, then lay out the patio or path so the deepest digging happens away from them.
A few choices tend to work well under a heavy canopy:
- Bluestone or textured pavers that give better footing when damp
- Gravel joints with stepping stones in spots where a solid surface would cut too many roots
- A deeper compacted base under any area that sees regular foot traffic
- Edge restraint to keep the border from creeping as the soil shifts
Patios that feel part of the yard
Many Allendale backyards are deep enough for a real outdoor room rather than a small slab by the back door. We build patios and walkways in pavers and natural stone, often combined with a low seating wall or a fire feature. Where the yard slopes toward the woods, a short retaining wall can create a level terrace and keep soil from washing onto the patio in heavy rain.
Runoff, gutters and wet basements
Wooded lots in the area often have soil that holds water in spring, and a lot of downspouts simply dump next to the foundation. Before we add any hard surface, we look at where water goes today and how the new work will change it. If the basement already shows signs of dampness, we can assess the walls and recommend basement waterproofing along with the outdoor project.
Front entries and steps
Older concrete steps on midcentury homes are often cracked or pulling away from the house. We rebuild them on a proper footing and finish them in brick, stone veneer or bluestone so the entry matches the rest of the property.
Allendale is one of the Bergen County towns we serve, and we also work in nearby Ramsey and Waldwick. When you are ready, request a free estimate and we will walk the yard with you.
