Rockaway is really two places. Rockaway Borough is a compact older town along the Rockaway River, with a small downtown and streets of modest early and mid twentieth century homes. Rockaway Township surrounds it and covers far more ground, with wooded hills, lake communities and newer subdivisions in the Highlands. We work in both, and the projects differ, but slopes, rock and water show up in most of them.
Walls that hold up
In the township, many lots are hilly, and rock is common just under the surface. A retaining wall is often what turns a steep yard into a usable lawn, patio or parking area. We build segmental block and natural stone walls on compacted stone with drainage behind them, and terrace taller grades into two or more shorter walls.
In the borough, walls are usually smaller: low garden walls, walls along driveways and walls between neighboring yards. Older ones in brick, block or stone can lean or lose mortar, and we repair or rebuild them.
Steps and driveways
Front steps on older borough homes and on raised ranches in the township crack, settle and pull away from the house. We rebuild them on solid footings in poured concrete steps, brick or stone veneer, with railings to code.
Driveways on hilly lots need a good base and a plan for water. We replace them in concrete, asphalt or pavers and build in drainage where runoff collects.
Cracks and foundations
Foundations near the river and on lots with high groundwater can show cracks and seepage. We seal cracks through our crack repair service, repair damaged block and parging, and look at grading so water heads away from the house.
Patios on uneven ground
Flat space can be scarce on hilly township lots. A patio set into the slope, held by a low wall on one side, creates a level area for a table and chairs. In the borough, smaller yards often call for a simple paver or stamped concrete patio off the back door. We grade every patio or walkway so water runs away from the house and does not collect against walls.
For older borough houses, we also repair brick and block chimneys, garden walls and porch piers that have lost mortar over the years. Our masonry construction and repair work keeps these smaller structures sound.
Things to sort out first
- Which Rockaway? The borough and township have separate permit offices, so the address matters.
- Water nearby. Lots near the river or a lake may face buffer or flood zone rules.
- Rock. Ledge can change a dig, and we look for signs of it during the estimate.
Rockaway is part of our Morris County service area, alongside Denville next door. For walls, steps or a driveway, schedule a free estimate and we will take a look.
