Maplewood is a leafy township in southern Essex County, beside South Orange. Most of its homes were built in the years between the two world wars: center hall colonials, Tudors with stucco and half-timbering, and some Victorians, on lots that are comfortable but not huge. The ground rolls gently in most neighborhoods, and mature trees shade many yards. Original stone and brick details are a big part of what gives the streets their character.
Front entries with stone and brick
Many Maplewood houses greet the street with brick or stone steps and bluestone treads. Decades of frost lift the treads and open the joints, and some steps have been patched so often they no longer look like they belong. We rebuild them on a proper footing in stone masonry and brick chosen to match the house, often with new railings.
Driveways that fit a period home
A cracked asphalt drive can undercut an otherwise handsome house. Brick-tone pavers suit Tudors and colonials alike, and we build every paver driveway on a deep, compacted base so it handles cars and winters. Concrete and asphalt remain good options where budget is the priority.
Backyards under mature trees
Shade, roots and moisture all matter when planning a patio here. We usually suggest:
- placing the patio where roots are smallest, not just closest to the door
- textured pavers or thermal bluestone for grip in damp shade
- a few steps or a landing from the back door built in matching stone
- drainage that keeps runoff off neighbors’ yards
Repointing older brick
Chimneys, foundations and garden walls from the 1920s were laid with softer mortar than today. As it erodes, water gets in. Tuckpointing with a compatible mix restores the joints and protects the brick.
Wet basements
Older stone and block foundations are rarely fully watertight, and some lower parts of town can be damp after heavy rain. We look at grading, gutters and cracks together before recommending waterproofing.
Before you start
The township building department may require permits for steps, walls, driveways and patios, and historic district rules may apply to some properties.
Maplewood shares a long border with South Orange, and we serve all of Essex County. Book a free estimate and we will look at your project in person.
