Oakland is a borough in the northwest corner of Bergen County, bordering Passaic County, with the Ramapo River running through it and Interstate 287 cutting across town. The terrain is noticeably different from the flat towns to the south. Streets climb and curve, lots are often wooded and sloped, and glacial stone turns up in nearly every excavation. Homes range from mid-century ranches and splits to raised ranches built into hillsides and larger newer homes on the high ground.
Retaining walls carry the yard
On many Oakland properties, the back or side yard falls away from the house. Without walls, there is no flat ground for a patio, a play area or even a comfortable path. We build retaining walls in segmental block and natural stone with proper footings, drainage stone and outlet pipes, so they hold up against the water that moves downhill after every storm.
Terracing is often the smartest approach: a few shorter walls stepping down the slope, each creating a level area. It spreads out the load and is easier to build on rocky ground.
Steps on every slope
Hilly lots need steps in places a flat lot never would: from the driveway to the front door, from the deck to the yard, between terraces. We build stone and bluestone steps with risers at a consistent height, and on steep runs we add landings. Railings go wherever the drop calls for them.
Rock, roots and runoff
What we keep in mind on Oakland jobs:
- Rock. Boulders and ledge can change plans mid dig. We look for signs during the estimate and explain options if we hit rock.
- Water. Runoff from uphill properties has to go around or under new walls, not through them.
- Foundations. Houses built into slopes can have retaining-style foundation walls that crack under pressure. Our foundation repair team can assess them.
- Access. Narrow, steep driveways affect how we deliver stone and equipment.
Close to home
Oakland is near our Hawthorne office, and we work in surrounding towns like Franklin Lakes and Mahwah. See all of Bergen County, or ask for a free estimate to have us walk your slope.
