Northvale is a small borough at the northeastern tip of Bergen County, on the New York State line, next to Norwood, Old Tappan and Rockleigh. Part of the town is set aside for business and light industry, and the rest is quiet residential streets. Most homes are ranches, Capes, split-levels and modest Colonials from the postwar decades, set on level lots of a comfortable suburban size. The flat terrain is good news for hardscape: less digging, fewer walls, and more of the budget going into the finished surface.
The backyard patio
Many Northvale yards have a small concrete pad or bare lawn outside the back door. A paver patio is the most popular upgrade. On a flat lot, we still pitch the surface slightly so rain drains away from the house, and we use a compacted stone base with solid edging so the pavers stay tight. Owners often add an arbor, a gazebo pad or a fire pit.
Some ideas that suit level Northvale yards:
- A square dining patio next to the kitchen door
- A path of stepping stones in gravel leading to a second seating area
- A low seating wall that frames the patio without blocking the lawn
- A walk from the driveway around the side of the house
Front walks and steps
Postwar entries tend to have a short concrete walk and two or three steps. We replace them with concrete steps or block and veneer steps with fresh railings, and run a new walk to the driveway or sidewalk. The goal is a clean, proportional entry that fits a one or two story house.
Driveways
Concrete and asphalt driveways from the original construction are often cracked and patched. We replace them on a fresh base and can widen the parking area within borough limits.
Before we start
Northvale is a borough with its own building department, and steps, walls and larger paved areas may need review. We confirm requirements before scheduling.
Around the area
We also work in Norwood, Old Tappan and across Bergen County. Book a free estimate and we will walk your yard with you.
