New Jersey has several municipalities named Washington Township, and this page is about the one in Bergen County, sometimes called the Township of Washington. It is a mostly residential suburb in the Pascack Valley area, filled in largely during the 1950s and 1960s with center-hall colonials, split-levels and ranches on regular suburban lots. Streets are quiet, yards are established and the land is mostly gentle with a few slopes. Most homes here are well kept but carry original masonry that is now sixty or more years old.
Giving the split-level a new face
The split-level is everywhere in this township, and its short front stoop is usually the first thing to show its age. We replace the old slab and steps with concrete steps faced in stone veneer or brick, a deeper landing and bluestone treads. Tie it to the driveway with a paver walk, and a 1960s facade looks updated without touching the siding.
Backyards with texture
Many owners want something more interesting than a plain rectangle of pavers. Ideas that work well here:
- a paver patio by the back door with a bluestone stepping-stone path beyond it
- gravel areas between paved zones for planters or a fire pit
- a long side-yard patio linking the driveway to the back
- a seating wall where the lawn rises
Mixing materials can also reduce the total area of solid pavement, which helps if the township limits lot coverage.
Walls on sloped lots
Some properties drop toward the street or back toward the rear lot line. Old railroad-tie and dry-stacked walls from decades ago are now rotting or leaning. Segmental block or stone retaining walls with proper drainage replace them for the long term, and steps can be built right into the wall.
A good number of these postwar homes still have their original basement walls. If you notice damp corners or white mineral streaks on block, it is worth having the foundation checked before any big hardscape project changes the grade around the house.
Driveways
Original concrete and asphalt driveways in town have mostly reached the end of their life. We replace them with a fresh base and good pitch, and can widen them where the township permits.
Washington Township neighbors Westwood and sits close to Paramus, and we work throughout Bergen County. Request a free estimate and we will come out to measure.
