Knowlton Township lies along the Delaware River in western Warren County. The village of Columbia sits near the river, and from there the land rises into steep, wooded hillsides and ridge country. Older houses cluster in the small villages, while many newer homes perch on slopes for the view. Flat ground is scarce, and that makes almost every hardscape project here a question of how to work with a hill.
Terraces instead of flat backyards
On a sloped lot, a patio has to be built into the hill or out from it. We usually split the height into tiers, with retaining walls holding each level. That keeps every wall a manageable height and leaves room for plantings. Old dry stacked walls that have started to bulge are common on these properties, and replacing them with an engineered block wall with drainage behind it is often the safest choice. Taller walls may need a permit and an engineered design, which we confirm with the township first.
Steps that handle a long climb
When the driveway sits well below the front door, the steps become a staircase. We break long runs with landings, keep risers even and choose textured treads so the steps stay safe on frosty mornings. Concrete steps can be finished in stone veneer or brick to suit the house, with railings on both sides where the climb is steep.
Fire pits and chimneys
Hillside homes with a view lend themselves to a fire pit on the upper terrace. We build stone and block fire pits and outdoor fireplaces with proper clearances. Indoors, older homes in the villages often have brick or stone chimneys that take the full force of wind and weather. We repoint, rebuild crowns and rebuild chimney tops that have deteriorated.
Hillside planning checklist
- Where does water go when it runs off the slope?
- Can equipment reach the work area, or will material be carried?
- Are there existing walls that are leaning or bulging?
- Which level of the yard do you actually want to use most?
Knowlton is one of the towns we cover across Warren County, along with nearby Blairstown and White Township. To plan your terrace, steps or chimney repair, book a free estimate.
