Trenton is New Jersey’s capital and one of its older cities, set along the Delaware River. Much of its housing is brick rowhouses, twins and older single family homes built close together, with front stoops that step right down to the sidewalk. These buildings were made to last, but after a century or more of weather, many need masonry that has been neglected for years brought back into shape.
Rebuilding stoops
The stoop is where most Trenton masonry problems show up first. Concrete treads crack and spall, brick risers loosen, and railing posts rust and break out of the masonry. When a stoop has settled or pulled away from the building, patching will not last. We rebuild steps and stoops on a solid base in concrete, or in brick over a block core with bluestone treads, and set new railings in sound material. On attached homes we work carefully at the shared edges so the neighbor’s steps stay intact.
Repointing brick fronts and walls
Worn mortar joints let water into a brick wall, and in winter that water freezes and pushes brick faces off. Front walls, parapets, chimneys and side walls on older Trenton homes often need attention. Tuckpointing and repointing removes the failed mortar and replaces it with a mix that suits old brick. Where individual bricks are too damaged, our masonry repair work replaces them with a close match.
Sidewalks and walkways
Broken and lifted sidewalk slabs are a hazard and often the owner’s responsibility to fix. We cut out damaged sections, rebuild the base and pour new concrete set to the right grade. Where a slab is sound but worn, resurfacing may be enough.
Older foundations and damp basements
Older stone and brick foundations can let water in through worn joints and cracks, especially on low ground near the river. We look at gutters, downspouts and grading first, since many problems start outside. When the foundation itself needs work, we repoint or repair the walls and offer basement waterproofing matched to the cause.
Working in the city
- City permits. Stoops, sidewalks and structural masonry may need approval from the city. We find out and file what is needed.
- Historic neighborhoods. Some areas of the city may have historic district rules for exterior work. We check early and plan materials to suit.
- Attached homes. We protect shared walls and keep neighbors informed about the schedule.
- Street access. We plan deliveries and debris removal so the sidewalk stays passable.
We also work in Ewing, Hamilton and Lawrence Township. See all of Mercer County or our page for neighboring Hamilton.
Need a stoop rebuilt or a brick front repointed? Book a free estimate and we will arrange a visit.
