This page covers Hanover Township, which includes the communities of Whippany and Cedar Knolls. It is a separate municipality from East Hanover, its neighbor to the east.
The township mixes residential neighborhoods with office and industrial areas. Much of the housing went up from the 1950s through the 1970s: capes, ranches, split levels and colonials on suburban lots, with some newer homes built since. The Whippany River runs through the township, and the land rises from the low ground near the river to gentle hills in other neighborhoods. That gives two different sets of problems, wet basements in the low areas and sloped yards on the higher ones.
Steps and walks on mid-century homes
Front steps from this era were usually poured concrete or brick on a concrete core. Many now have cracked treads, loose railings or a gap where they meet the house. We rebuild concrete steps on new footings and often replace the walk at the same time so it meets the bottom step cleanly. Paver walks with a contrasting border are a common choice on colonials and capes.
Cracks and damp basements
Poured and block foundations from the postwar years often have settlement cracks, and in lower areas near the river, groundwater can find them. We seal and repair foundation cracks with crack repair methods suited to the wall type, then look at grading, gutters and downspouts. If water keeps coming in, we discuss waterproofing.
Yards on the hillier side
In neighborhoods on higher ground, back yards can slope enough to make a patio tricky. A low seating wall or a short retaining wall usually solves it, giving a level surface without a big structure.
Points to check
- Which town? Confirm Hanover Township versus East Hanover before applying for permits.
- Near the river. Lots close to the Whippany River may fall under flood zone rules.
- Shared drives. Some older lots share driveways or walks, so agreement with the neighbor helps.
Hanover Township also borders Morris Plains and Parsippany, and we serve all of Morris County. Get a free estimate for steps, walks, cracks or a patio.
