Princeton is home to Princeton University and some of the most varied older housing in New Jersey. Within a short walk you can pass fieldstone houses, brick Colonials, stucco homes from the early twentieth century and newer construction on quiet streets. Several neighborhoods fall within historic districts, so exterior masonry here is as much about preserving what is there as building something new.
Older masonry needs the right mortar
The biggest mistake we see on older Princeton homes is repair work done with the wrong materials. Hard cement mortar packed into a wall built with soft lime mortar can trap moisture and break the edges of old brick and stone. Our historic masonry restoration starts by looking at the original mortar, its color, sand and joint style, then matching it. Repointing is done by hand, cutting out failed joints carefully so the masonry units are not damaged.
Stone walls, steps and entries
Stone garden walls, fieldstone foundations and stone steps are part of the character of many Princeton properties. When a wall bulges or a step loosens, we rebuild it with the original stone wherever we can and add drainage that older walls often lacked. For new work, our stone masonry includes stacked stone entries, veneer, and stone risers with bluestone treads that look at home next to older facades.
Bluestone walks and patios
Bluestone suits Princeton homes well, whether it is a straight front walk, a rear terrace or a path through the garden. We set bluestone on a compacted base with careful attention to the pitch, so puddles do not form and freeze. Brick walks are another good fit near older brick houses, and we can lay them in classic patterns.
Stucco and chimneys
Older stucco homes need care too. Patches done with the wrong mix often crack away from the original. We repair stucco in a compatible material and texture, and check the wall behind it when there are signs of moisture. Chimney crowns, flue caps and upper brick joints are common repairs on older roofs.
Before you start in Princeton
- Historic district review. If your home is in a historic district, exterior changes generally need approval before work starts. Tell us early so we can prepare materials for your application.
- Permits. The municipality’s building department handles permits for steps, walls and structural masonry. We confirm what is required.
- Mature trees. Many lots have large trees close to walks and walls. We plan the work to protect roots where possible.
- Allow time. Review can add weeks, so starting the conversation in winter keeps a spring or summer start possible.
We also work in Lawrence Township, West Windsor, Hopewell and Pennington. See all of Mercer County or our page for nearby Ewing.
Have an old wall, chimney or set of steps that needs proper care? Request a free estimate and we will come see it.
