North Plainfield is a compact borough just north of the City of Plainfield, separated from it by the Green Brook. It is one of the more densely built towns in Somerset County, with Victorian and early twentieth century homes, foursquares, two family houses and garden apartments on small lots. The southern part of the borough is flat and close to the brook. The northern part rises toward the Watchung hills, so many houses there sit well above the sidewalk with tall flights of front steps.
Tall front steps and stoops
Homes perched above the street put a lot of demand on their steps. Old concrete and brick stairs crack at the treads, lose mortar and lean outward over time. We rebuild front steps on footings below frost depth, face them in brick or stone with bluestone treads, and set railings into solid masonry. Where the yard allows, a landing breaks up a long run.
Brick, porches and stucco
Older houses here often have brick porch piers, foundation walls and chimneys with worn joints. Our repointing work restores the mortar before water causes bigger damage, and we rebuild piers and walls that have cracked or shifted. Some homes also have stucco foundations or facades, and we repair and refinish stucco to match. When a porch needs more than masonry, we also handle framing and roofing.
Walks and driveways on tight lots
Short front walks and narrow driveways take a lot of daily wear. We replace broken concrete with new walks and drives pitched away from the house, or with pavers or stamped concrete where you want a dressier look. Near the brook, keeping surface water away from older basements is part of every plan.
Practical notes
- Borough permits. Steps, sidewalks and driveway aprons may need approval.
- Multi family homes. Work on shared entries means planning around tenants and access.
- Flood areas. Low lying streets near the Green Brook may have extra rules.
North Plainfield borders Watchung and Green Brook, and it is part of our Somerset County service area. Get a free estimate and we will come look at the steps or brick.
