Highlands is a small borough where the land drops from a steep, wooded hill down to a low strip along the Shrewsbury River and Sandy Hook Bay. The two halves are very different places to build. Down by the water, many homes were raised after major coastal storms, with the living space lifted well above the street. Up the hill, houses cling to slopes with long stairways. Either way, getting to the front door safely is the main job.
Stairs for elevated homes
When a house is lifted, the old stoop no longer reaches the door. Temporary wood stairs are common, and many owners want something permanent. We build tall entry steps in concrete, block, brick or stone veneer, breaking the climb with landings and keeping every riser even. Railings are set into solid masonry and chosen to resist salt.
Design limits near the water
Lots in the low part of town are typically in a flood zone, and that affects what can be built. Rules can limit fill, enclosed space and solid structures in certain areas. We review those requirements before drawing anything and handle borough permits, so the design is approved the first time.
Walks and pads around raised houses
New grades after an elevation often leave mud and broken concrete around the house. We pour or lay walkways from the street to the stairs, side paths to the yard and simple pads for utilities, all pitched to drain. Our patio and walkway work is designed to fit within the rules for the lot.
Up the hill
On the slope, the issues are different: long stair runs, retaining walls holding back the hill and runoff after storms. We rebuild stairs and walls with proper footings and drainage.
Quick checklist for waterfront lots
- Know your flood zone before planning steps or patios.
- Plan landings to make tall entries comfortable.
- Choose coastal grade hardware for railings and fasteners.
- Keep drainage open under and around raised homes.
Highlands borders Atlantic Highlands and Sea Bright across the river. For other towns, see our Monmouth County page.
Need permanent stairs for a raised home? Book a free estimate and we will look at the entry and the rules for your lot.
