Garwood is a small borough squeezed between Westfield and Cranford, with a rail line and a strip of commercial and light industrial land running through it. The residential blocks are dense by suburban standards: modest colonials, Cape Cods, two-family homes and bungalows on narrow lots, many built in the first half of the twentieth century. Ground is mostly flat, and side yards are often just wide enough for a driveway.
Driveways on tight lots
With homes this close together, the driveway often doubles as the side walk and the path to the backyard. Original strips crack, settle and pull away from the foundation. We replace them with concrete or asphalt driveways built on a compacted base and pitched away from both houses. Where there is room, a paver border or a ribbon of pavers along the house adds some style without eating space.
Small backyards, smart patios
A Garwood backyard rarely has space to waste. We design patios and walkways that use every corner: a patio that starts at the back door, a narrow walk that runs alongside the house, or a single surface that combines both. Pavers are easy to fit around fences and sheds, and they can be lifted later if a utility line needs work.
Steps and front walks
Many houses here have short concrete stoops of three or four steps, often cracked at the nosing or tilted toward the street. A rebuilt stoop with new railings, plus a fresh front walk, is one of the most affordable ways to refresh a modest home. If the slab is sound and only the surface is worn, resurfacing may be enough.
Garwood planning tips
- Space for equipment. Narrow side yards can mean hand work or smaller machines, which affects scheduling.
- Neighbor coordination. A quick word before the job starts keeps shared driveways and fences clear.
- Permits. The borough may require approval for driveway aprons and steps.
Garwood neighbors Cranford and Westfield, and we cover the rest of Union County too. For a driveway, stoop or small patio, get a free estimate.
