Piscataway is a large suburban township along the Raritan River, and part of the Rutgers campus sits within its borders. Most residential streets are lined with ranches, capes, bi-levels and colonials from the postwar decades, with newer developments on bigger lots in other parts of town. Yards are generally a good size, which opens the door to larger outdoor projects than you see in denser towns.
Driveways sized for the household
Many Piscataway families now have more cars than the original driveway was built for. Replacement is a chance to widen, add a parking pad or straighten out an awkward turn. We build concrete and asphalt driveways and paver driveways on a compacted stone base deep enough for daily traffic. Pavers with a contrasting border are a popular upgrade that also gives the front of the house a finished look.
Patios and full backyard plans
With more room to work, homeowners here often want more than a simple slab. A full hardscaping plan can combine a patio, a walkway from the driveway, steps down from a deck or slider, and a fire pit or seating wall. We lay out the pieces together so the elevations work and every surface sheds water away from the house.
Slopes and retaining walls
Some Piscataway lots slope toward the back or side, especially in neighborhoods with more varied terrain. A retaining wall can create a level patio area, hold back a garden bed or stop soil from washing onto a walkway. We build segmental block and natural stone walls with proper footings, drainage stone and weep paths behind them, which is what keeps a wall from leaning after a few winters.
Foundations underneath it all
Before adding a patio or new steps against the house, it is worth checking the foundation. Cracked walls, crumbling parging and settled corners are easier to fix before new hardscape goes in. Our foundation repair work covers crack sealing, wall repair and new footings when they are needed.
Before you start
- Township permits. Driveway widening, aprons, retaining walls and new steps may require approval. We handle the application when one is needed.
- Easements and setbacks. Larger lots sometimes have easements or setback lines that limit where a patio or wall can go. We check before designing.
- Drainage first. A bigger hard surface sends more water somewhere. We plan for it so it does not end up in your basement or a neighbor’s yard.
- Plan early. Larger projects take more planning, so a winter estimate keeps a spring start realistic.
We also work in Dunellen, Middlesex Borough and South Plainfield. See all of Middlesex County or our page for neighboring New Brunswick.
Thinking about a new driveway or backyard? Book a free estimate for your Piscataway home and we will walk the property with you.
