Your Guide to Custom Paving in Bergen County: Making the Right Choice for Your Home

Where Great Backyards Begin

There’s something about a summer barbecue in Bergen County that just feels right—grilling burgers, kids playing tag, drinks in hand, and everyone relaxing on your patio long after sunset. What happens when that patio starts to crack, shift, or just feel… outdated?

That’s when custom paving becomes more than a cosmetic upgrade—it becomes an essential part of your outdoor lifestyle.

At Mufson Pools: Landscape & Design, we know how important it is for Bergen County homeowners to make smart choices when it comes to custom paving. Whether you’re dreaming of a bluestone patio, a brick walkway, or a sleek modern driveway, your paving project should reflect your lifestyle and add lasting value to your home.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through:

• The best paving materials for Northern NJ homes
• Classic and trending paver patterns
• A detailed installation process
• Seasonal maintenance tips
• The real cost and long-term value
• Why local contractors make all the difference

Let’s get started on building a hardscape that truly feels like home.

Choosing Your Paving Material

When it comes to custom paving in Bergen County, material is everything. The right surface balances durability, aesthetics, and budget. Here’s how the top three materials stack up:

A. Natural Stone

For timeless elegance and rich texture, natural stone paving stands above the rest. Popular options include:

• Bluestone: A regional favorite, known for its deep blue-gray hues and slip resistance
• Limestone: Light and clean with a smooth surface
• Granite: Dense, durable, and beautiful for high-traffic areas

Cost Range: $$, $$$

Expect to invest more upfront, but the visual payoff and longevity are well worth it. Stone paving offers a custom, one-of-a-kind finish—no two stones are the same. It’s also ideal for custom hardscaping in Northern NJ, blending beautifully with natural landscapes and upscale homes.

B. Concrete Pavers

A favorite for paver installation in Bergen County, concrete pavers offer unmatched flexibility in design. Benefits:

• Countless colors, shapes, and paver patterns
• Lower cost than natural stone
• Excellent strength for driveways and walkways

Cost Range: $, $$

Concrete is a workhorse material—resilient to Northern NJ’s freeze-thaw cycles and easy to replace if one piece chips. With modern advances, concrete pavers can even mimic stone or brick at a fraction of the price.

C. Brick Pavers

Love classic charm? Brick paving adds character and history to any landscape. Perks:

• Long lifespan (50+ years with proper care)
• Warm, earthy tones that never go out of style
• Works beautifully for custom walkway designs and patios

Cost Range: $$

While brick requires more paver maintenance in Bergen County—think regular weeding and occasional releveling—it delivers timeless beauty. It’s ideal for homeowners looking for sustainable materials with a traditional vibe.

Popular Paving Patterns

How you lay your pavers can elevate even basic materials into something truly artistic. Here are the most requested designs for custom outdoor surfaces:

A. Herringbone

A go-to for driveways and high-traffic walkways, the herringbone pattern is laid in an interlocking V-shape that provides exceptional stability and load resistance.

Bonus: It adds eye-catching movement, especially with contrasting paver colors.

B. Basket Weave

Vintage meets visual flair with this charming pattern. The basket weave alternates pairs of horizontal and vertical bricks to create a woven effect. It’s perfect for patios and entertaining areas where aesthetics matter most.

You can even mix paver colors for a checkerboard look with personality.

C. Running Bond

Simple, efficient, and cost-effective, running bond uses a staggered brick layout that’s great for longer paths and budget-conscious projects. It offers a clean, linear look that pairs well with modern architecture.

D. Special Treatments

Want to make your project stand out? Add circular insets or border details to elevate your design.

Installation Process Step-by-Step

A successful paving project is all about planning and precision. Here’s how our Bergen County paving services work from start to finish:

A. Planning & Design

We start by understanding your lifestyle needs—whether you entertain often, need space for kids, or just want low-maintenance beauty. We also check for local permits, drainage needs, and elevation concerns.

Next, we create a 3D visualization of your design so you can see your custom paving come to life before the first stone is laid.

B. Excavation & Base Prep

A long-lasting surface starts with a solid foundation:

• Digging to the proper depth (typically 6 – 12 inches)
• Laying a crushed stone base
• Compacting the base for drainage and stability
• This step is critical for preventing future shifting or sinking.

C. Laying Pavers & Finishing

Once the prep work is done:

• A layer of sand bedding is applied
• Pavers are laid in your chosen pattern
• Joint sand is swept in to lock pavers in place
• Optional sealing protects the surface and enhances color

Maintenance & Care

Paving isn’t just set-it-and-forget-it. Here’s how to keep it looking its best year-round:

A. Seasonal Maintenance

Spring:

• Power wash debris and mildew
• Refill the joint sand to prevent shifting

Summer:

• Remove stains from food or furniture
• Keep weeds and ants at bay with polymeric sand

Fall/Winter:

• Clear leaves and debris
• Use a plastic shovel (not metal) to avoid chipping
• Avoid de-icers with harsh chemicals

B. Professional vs. DIY

DIY is fine for cleaning and basic touch-ups. But for repairs, sealing, or resetting pavers, call in hardscape contractors in Northern NJ. Pros have the tools and training to maintain your investment properly.

Cost & Value Analysis

A. Upfront Investment

Here’s what goes into the initial cost of paver patio installation or driveway:

• Materials: Natural stone is the most expensive, followed by brick, then concrete
• Labor: Skilled installers make the difference in longevity and appearance
• Permits: Required in many Bergen County towns

Expect to spend between $15 – $35 per square foot, depending on choices. The good news? You get a strong ROI when it’s time to sell.

B. Long-Term Value

Properly installed stone paving in NJ can last 30+ years. Brick and concrete offer similar lifespans with regular care. In a competitive real estate market, beautiful outdoor spaces boost curb appeal and home value.

Hire Local Professionals

A. Bergen County Expertise

We know the soil conditions, weather patterns, and building codes of Northern NJ. Our team navigates local regulations and seasonal challenges with ease, ensuring your project gets done right the first time.

B. Warranties & Quality

Working with a reputable team like Mufson means:

• Access to high-quality paving materials
• Strong warranties on workmanship
• Relationships with top suppliers for the best pricing and availability

Next Steps & Call-to-Action

Ready to transform your patio, driveway, or walkway with custom paving in Bergen County?

Start with a no-pressure consultation. We’ll walk you through material options, patterns, and even a trending hardscape design so you can visualize your dream space. Key questions to ask your contractor:

• Are you licensed and insured in Bergen County?
• What kind of base materials do you use?
• Can you show examples of local projects?

Let’s bring your vision to life—contact Mufson Pools today and schedule your consultation for custom paving, paver installation, or full hardscape design. Your dream outdoor space is just a few stones away.