Monmouth Beach is a small borough stretched along a thin strip of land between the Atlantic and the Shrewsbury River, just north of Long Branch. Homes range from older cottages and mid-century houses to newer, raised single family homes and condominium communities. Because the land is so narrow and low, water comes from two directions. Ocean storms are one concern, but tidal flooding on the river side can reach yards and driveways during an ordinary nor’easter. Good hardscape here is built with the expectation that it will get wet.
Surfaces that let water go
The best patios in a low lying yard move water down into the ground or off the property quickly. Our paver construction uses a deep, open graded stone base under the pavers so rain and flood water can drain instead of lifting the surface. Combining a paver patio with gravel beds and bluestone stepping stones adds even more places for water to soak in.
Pool decks on the river side
Backyard pools are common, and a deck near tidal water has to handle both pool splash and the occasional salt flood. We rebuild coping and decks with dense pavers or properly cured concrete, pitch them away from the pool and the house, and leave the joints in a condition that is easy to clean after high water. Pool masonry repairs often start with resetting coping stones that have loosened over time.
After a storm
Flooding that recedes quickly still leaves work behind. Here is what we look at after high water:
- Settled pavers where the base washed out at an edge.
- Salt residue on steps, walls and stucco that should be rinsed off.
- Cracked stucco near grade where water sat against the wall.
- Damp crawl spaces that may need drainage or waterproofing.
Entries on raised homes
Many homes here have been lifted, so front entries now include taller stairs and landings. We build masonry steps and stone faced landings that tie back into the walkway and handle wind and spray without rusting at every post.
We also serve Sea Bright to the north, Oceanport across the river, and all of Monmouth County.
Ready to rethink a patio or pool deck that floods? Request a free estimate and we will look at how water moves across your lot.
