Dunellen is one of the smallest towns in Middlesex County by area, and it feels like an old railroad borough: a downtown near the station, and blocks of early and mid twentieth century homes on narrow lots around it. Many houses here have raised first floors, front porches and short concrete walks to the sidewalk. That makes steps and walkways the core of what we do in town.
Tall steps on older houses
A lot of Dunellen homes sit well above the sidewalk, so the front steps are taller than the typical suburban stoop. Older poured steps at that height tend to crack through the middle or tip forward as the footing settles. We rebuild front steps in concrete or brick with bluestone treads, consistent riser heights and sturdy railings, so they are safer for everyone who uses them.
Short walks, small driveways
The walk from the sidewalk to the porch might only be a few slabs long, but when one lifts, it is a trip hazard. Options we offer in town:
- new broom finished concrete, the simplest and most economical
- pavers with a border, which cost more but repair easily later
- bluestone, a classic look for older porches
- resurfacing when the slabs are level but worn
Narrow driveways along the side of the house get the same attention to base and pitch as larger ones, since water sliding toward a foundation is the main thing we want to stop.
Brick chimneys and foundations
Older Dunellen homes often have brick chimneys and block or brick foundations with decades of weather on them. Mortar that has eroded from the joints lets water in, and freeze and thaw does the rest. We repoint with a mortar suited to the brick, rebuild chimney crowns and patch parging so the foundation sheds water again.
Small borough, close neighbors
Houses here sit close, so a tidy job site matters. We keep materials on your property where possible, protect the neighbor’s side, and clean up daily. The borough building department handles permits for steps and structural work, and we confirm what applies before scheduling.
We work throughout the area, including neighboring Middlesex borough, Piscataway and the rest of Middlesex County. If your Dunellen steps or walk need attention, request a free estimate and we will come by.
