Montgomery Township stretches from the edge of Princeton north toward Hillsborough, taking in the communities of Skillman and Belle Mead. It has a rural backbone of preserved farms and woodland, with the Sourland Mountain ridge along its western side, and neighborhoods of newer colonials and custom homes on lots of an acre or more. Soils vary a lot: heavy clay in the flats, stony ground and outcrops toward the ridge. Many houses sit on gently sloping lots, with walkout basements and decks well above the yard.
Terraces for uneven lots
The classic Montgomery problem is a back door or deck that sits several feet above the lawn. Rather than a patio stuck at the bottom of a long stair, we often build a raised terrace held by a retaining wall, with steps built into it. The wall needs a stable footing, drainage aggregate and pipe behind it, and geogrid where the height calls for it.
Patios and outdoor rooms
On flatter lots, the goal is usually a patio that feels like part of the house: a dining area by the kitchen, a sitting area around a fire pit or outdoor fireplace, and walkways that loop back to the driveway. Bluestone, natural stone and pavers in muted colors all suit the semi rural setting.
Rock, clay and drainage
Toward the ridge, we often hit stone during excavation and adjust the design instead of fighting it. In the clay areas, base depth and drainage matter more, because water lingers and frost heave is stronger. Either way, every patio is pitched to send runoff away from the foundation.
What to have ready
- A survey of the lot. It helps us place patios and walls within setbacks.
- Township approvals. Walls, larger patios and fire features may need a permit.
- Your priorities. Tell us how you want to use the space, and we will plan around it.
Montgomery surrounds Rocky Hill and borders Hillsborough, and we work across all of Somerset County. When you are ready, book a free estimate and we will review the site with you.
