We hired Ben & Gene to waterproof and fix some basement cracks in our walls. These guys were amazing from start to finish. They showed us any issues found, explained our options and performed the work in a timely manner. On time daily, did great work and cleaned up everything daily. They were a pleasure to hire and we will 100% be calling them back for other projects in the future. Ben thank you again for making yourself available to meet at anytime and Gene, thank you for taking the time to answer any of our questions about the work or giving us advice on future ideas we have in mind. These guys are the best by far I have ever dealt with and can't praise them enough, the basement came out amazing and its so clean. Thank you both again.

We recently had our front sidewalk and steps re-done. Ben Grano went over every detail of the job with us and gave us a fair price. Having previously had work done by MARIO GRANO & SONS, LLC we knew we'd get quality workmanship and a beautiful finished project. We highly recommend this company.

In a single word...Pristine. That is the best way I can explain the work that Grano & Son's left our basement after doing extensive work to install 2 sump pumps and a french drain. The team of workers worked tirelessly and were always prompt. The project was completed on time without unexpected costs. They showed extreme professionalism. I highly recommend them for any masonry, basement, or waterproofing job.

Many years ago, when our family first moved to our home and were in need of having a concrete patio poured, all our neighbors said we should have Mario Grano & Sons do the work. Many of them had hired Grano before and were very happy with the results. So, we hired Grano to pour our new patio and many years later, it looks as good as the day it was done. We were recently in need of having a new concrete driveway poured. Again, we went with Mario Grano & Sons. The high quality of materials Grano uses makes all the difference in the world in getting beautiful results that will last forever. The workers were very neat and cleaned-up the site every night before leaving. Also, Ben and Gene Grano were very friendly, professional, and made it clear that our satisfaction with the work was of utmost importance to them. To anyone considering having some masonry work done, I wholeheartedly
recommend Mario Grano & Sons!

My husband and I cannot express our gratitude to Mario Grano and Sons. As most people do, we hesitated about the expense of getting work that was desperately needed in our basement. The walls, french drains, and mold was totally getting out of control.

The work that this awesome company provides is 100% excellent. If you need a job completed with quality and expertise, Mario Grano & Sons is definitely the one to call.

Their professional knowledge of what was essential and dependability is more than just a plus. Also, because this hardworking crew knew their craft so well, the work was completed in an efficient and timely matter.

For the first time in forty years, we know we will never have to worry about seeing another drop of water or a cracked wall in our home basement.

Thank you for a job well done!

Ron & Janet
2016

Gene and Ben Grano did a Masonry and Landscaping job at my home. Their work crew were extremely professional and did a beautiful job. They also have a talent for visualizing a design and then creating it. I would recommend them without hesitation and will be contacting them again in the future.

Mario Grano and Sons took our very old front steps (built originally in 1968), and remade them to be beautiful! They are solid, safe, and after 4 years, still look brand new! They also rebuilt the pathway using pavement and in ground bricks, which is different and we always get compliments! thanks!

A new porch and beautiful landscaping were installed at my property. The old steps were removed, and a new porch was built, along with a new walkway on either side of my home as well as out toward the street. The new porch, walkways, and landscape layouts were designed solely by one of the owners, since I am terrible at making decisions concerning aesthetics. I merely chose the brick and tree/shrubbery style I preferred. Even though I gave full license for all design layouts to the owner, approval was still requested for every decision made. Overall the job was excellent. I could not any be happier with the design, the quality, the helpfulness, etc. A job well-done by a quality company.

My old front porch was taken down, and a new one was installed, my old driveway was removed and a new concrete driveway was completed, and beautiful landscaping was planted in the front of my home. Overall, the job went amazingly well from start to finish. Everyone was extremely professional, from the owner, Ben, to all of the workers. The porch, the driveway, and the landscaping were completed beautifully. I gave Ben complete authority to decide on the landscaping (my only requirement was low maintenance items). What he chose was absolutely stunning. Neighbors commented for months on how good all of the work looked, and even requested their business card. Fantastic work!! Fantastic company!!

Have you ever watched Holmes on Homes and wished you had someone to do work in your home like that guy? Well, that is how you will feel with Benito & his crew. I had been watching his signs go up all over my neighbor and kept my eye out on for the finished product. The way his crew worked - clean, non-disruptive to neighbors, fast and talented - they left me impressed so I called for an estimate. Well, at my door was our own Jersey version on the Canadian guy on TV. To sum it up, he took care of us. He offered suggestions (and good ones!), he explained so patiently the details of what they would do, when they would do it and when they would finish. The price estimate was exactly what he said it would be. Benito and his master concrete artisans gave us a beautiful walkway, stoop and side front patio area. He even gave us a temporary solution to connect my driveway to the walkway until we could afford to finish up the job. They were amazing. I referred him to a dear friend for weatherproofing her basement. She didn't have very good luck with hiring contractors so was reluctant to start the selection process to waterproof the basement. She was thrilled with the work they did! I'm writing this because if there ever was an honest, down to earth, hometown company this is it. That TV show where Holmes says "Do it right" is exactly how Benito and his staff works. As soon as we can we're going to try to get our driveway done...and I will call no one else but Mario Grano & Sons. But taking the recommendation of a stranger might not mean anything, just drive around Woodbridge, Perth Amboy and so many other neighborhoods & towns and take a look at the work they do. The proof is in their work product. signed, one Happy Customer!

Ben Grano was great. We were recommended to get a mason's opinion on a roofing issue (long story). We described the situation to Ben and although he believed we needed a roofer, he took time to come out anyway. He was punctual. He took time to look at the problem, and although it was not a repair in his field, he still took time to describe what we needed to do and recommend some roofers that could help. He was friendly and knowledgeable able to diagnose the problem.

A french drain was installed around the perimeter of the house. Two regular sump pumps and two back-up pumps (in case of power failure) were installed. They first had to demolish the basement family room and bathroom because of water and mold damage from Hurricane Irene. This was a big job. The town inspector said this was one of the biggest drains he inspected. A 30 yard dumpster was needed to remove the debris. They were very professional and hard working. We can't praise the workers enough. They cleaned off and hooked up the washer & dryer again. The workers cleaned the driveway and sidewalks of mud (it was raining some days). They were extremely careful and considerate. We want to thank them for all their hard work, and also thank Ben Grano for a job well done.

Demo and replace rear and front porch with Garrison Grey Brick Demo and replace front walk leading to road with concrete Demo and replace walkway leading to driveway with concrete Demo and replace existing patio with concrete Install all new landscaping and hardscape along the front of the house with raised beds constructed of tumbled block walls. Filled with trees and shrubs, then finshed with Delaware River Rocks along all borders. The project went great! They came out and gave us a quote for the initial work. I had given them a time line of when I needed the work done by. They worked well within my time frame and we couldn't be happier with the work. No issues, no problems, this is a great company to work with!

Ben Grano gave us an exact price for the work, small deposit, tool care of the permits and inspections. One cost over run was top soil to even out the grade. He planted seed and covered with hay at cost even when I insisted he sould make some money on it. Started on time, finshed on time. I did not have to worry about anythng. Front porch needs to be replaced this year, Grano will be back to do that job.

After years of wresting with a leaky basement, a friend recommended putting everything in the hands of Mario Grano and Sons. Now a year later, I can only say, "Why didn't I do that sooner?" My basement is now so dry, the de-humidifier refuses to go on! But it is not just the superb work done by Grano and Sons - it is the wonderful people who do it - Gene and Ben Cathy and Zack and the way they treat you as family. I can't say enough in praise of these good people and the superb work they do.

Recently had our heavily damaged driveway & sidewalks replaced by Mario Grano & Sons. Delighted with the results which far exceeded our expectations. They took care of everything down to the last detail. Since my gardens are my pride & joy, I was so grateful for the care they took in protecting them throughout the project. In fact, except for our beautiful new driveway & sidewalks, you would never know that they were here. If you are looking for a company who prides itself on old fashion courtesy & work ethics & couples it with state of the art materials & expertise, contact Mario Grano & Sons. You will be so glad you did. Christine & Bob, Fords, NJ

When I had Mario Grano & Sons, LLC come out to landscape my backyard I knew it would be good, but HOW GOOD is the amazing part. Just as I did with my front yard, I had one of the owners, Ben, do all of the deciding on and designing of the landscaping. I am not one for picking out what looks right in the space, let the professionals be the professionals, I say. My only requirement was that everything be low maintenance. I don't want to have to keep up with pruning hedges or trees (that's just too much work!) Well, in their fashion, the Mario Grano & Sons crew came in excavated the area, cut down trees, removed all the old debris, brought in new top soil and the most grogeous trees, bushes, shrubs, and boulders, and placed them so beautifully, I still can't believe it! They also installed an irrigation system and low voltage lighting to add to the beauty and low maintenance level I need. What went from a less than mediocre backyard area is now beautiful and serene. Overall the job done was incredible. The work was done quickly, efficiently, cleanly, and unbelievably well. What more can you ask for? An amazing job from an A+ company!

Thank you for the amazing work! This is the 2nd job we hired Mario Grano and Sons to do for our home within the last 2 years. The first job turned out amazing, so we knew we would hire them for this much bigger job. They once again completely wow'd us! I kid around saying my property is the size of postage stamp but looking at what they designed for us, you wouldn't think so now. On my small lot, they gave me this stunning driveway bordered in exquisite Belgium block and Delaware Stone, patio area with hardscaping surrounding our treasured grape vine pergola and designated grill area for those summer BBQs. If I can sum up how they set themselves apart from all the rest, the word would be details. The attention to detail in everything they do is extraordinary. For example, in between the bordering Belgium blocks they used what looked like a pastry bag filled with cement and molded this smooth rope shaped line in between each block. It just looks stunning. But you wouldn't be surprised because this is the kind of attention to detail they give EVERYTHING they touch. What they offer is not simply laying down cement, pouring a patio, planting a flower or adding Belgium blocks. They created a Tuscan oasis for me in my backyard. With grape vines, he re-designed my whole patio area to capture our personalities, lifestyles and vines. He even replaced the old posts of the pergola now so that when we rebuild the pergola next year, the cement would not need to be redone to add those posts! It wasn't just a job for them, each one of the Mario Grano team made my home into a work of art. From the quality of the materials they used, expert craftsmanship, amazing service, dedicated and hardworking crew, to the cost-to-value ratio - they will not disappoint on any level. I wrote in my last review that Ben, one of the Grano brothers, was like the Jersey version of Mike Holmes from the TV show, Holmes on Homes. Well this time we worked with Gene, his brother, and he is exactly the same! We were even joking with him when he noticed that my window air conditioner was dripping water to where the new patio would be poured and he said "I will find a solution so the drip doesn't ruin my cement." This is pride of work...he was pouring my patio and felt he was such a part of it that it was his cement. I adore these guys! (Just so you know, he came up with a crafty solution and now it won't drip onto the cement!!) Gene came up with a great solution to eliminate the eye sore of my garbage and recycling cans with a wonderful cedar privacy fence laid out to serve not only for that much needed privacy but to build an area just for the cans without taking up valuable space. That type of attention to detail, dedication and commitment to a job well done can't be bought when someone gets a business license. Their Dad would be so proud of what they do and carrying on the work ethic he taught them. Mike Holmes from the TV show Holmes on Homes said "Don't think about money, think about how your money is being spent" Next year, they will be back to re-do the foundation of my garage, add a small retaining wall to the side of the house (opposite side of the driveway) and add some more landscaping. I would not dream of even looking for another company to work on my home.

Ben, Gene, Kathy and crew really care about the quality of their work and their customers. They removed and reconstructed my steps, foundation and walkway, the results are fantastic and are built to last. I now have the best looking and constructed steps in Highview Manor. They are the "Mike Holmes" for masonry in our area. They are honest true professionals and masters of their trade. They went above and beyond making the entire process painless. I highly recommend them for any masonry work. Bill and Michelle, Woodbridge, NJ

My backyard pavers, stairs, and concrete were outdated and damaged. Had a grass walkway to pool which killed the grass and looked bad. Called Mario Grano and Sons with no real plan or concept in mind. Ben came out and conceived a plan out of thin air about a landscaping area and a serpentine like walkway that had never crossed my mind. Ben worked out a scope of work that would fit my budget and the finished product well exceeded my expectations. Explained that I would like to have the work completed by a certain date and Ben and crew made that happen. The crew was very courteous, made sure everything was clean at end of day, which as a contractor myself was very appreciated. Ben and his brother Gene operate a very professional, family oriented business. I always felt as if they had my best interest in mind and were not trying to maximize profits. I've already lined up Ben to do some more work next spring and can't wait to see the outcome of that. Definitely a contractor worth recommending. Ben and Gene deserve many kudos, or should I say ELOGIARE!!! (Italian) Thanks again, see you soon.

Just finished a major backyard renovation, new patio,brick stairs, new pool deck and regraded backyard. Could not have been more satisifed with Ben, Gene and the crew. They were at my house 6 days a week for 6 weeks and finshed up only taking one day off after Sandy hit.The professionalism and attention to detail put into my project was outstanding. All their suggestions and recommendations were on the money.I would strongly recommend this company for all masonry/landscape needs.

My front porch and retaining are done and it is BEAUTIFUL. Your employees are AMAZING. They do a great job but they also clean up day after day, thumbs up from me. I am never disappointed by Mario Grano & Sons work. This is great contractor to work with. They did my driveway years ago and when it came to other work, I did not hesitate to call Mario Grano & Sons. I did not need any other estimates.

Thank you for the great job done in our home with the installation of the french drain. The quality of work provided by your employees was extraordinary and professional. The way our home was kept during the work which included demolition was impecable.

To Gene, Kathy, and all the guys...this one’s for you... Mario Grano & Sons.....the best? A conundrum.... To answer this question you have to step back and look at the whole picture. You say to yourself “boy I really have to get that front porch and walkway fixed”. Or “this back walkway has seen better days - I’d love to replace it with a new patio for entertaining”. You wrestle with the headache that you’re going to have to deal with contractors and ultimately place your faith in their hands. It’s a scary proposition for most and we were no different. Like most we absolutely love our home. Ours is somewhat special in that it’s an old Sears & Roebuck house that’s about 95% original save for some of the mechanicals. The house was built in 1923 and is identical to the picture shown from that particular catalog year. Our original front porch was all brick lined and included brick steps (or rowlock). Because the porch was original we wanted to keep it exactly as it was shown in the catalog. This was the main goal for the entire project and one that we insisted on when talking to various contractors. In addition to the front porch, both the front and rear walkways were to be replaced with the rear section being extended into a new patio area. I had a few contractors come out and on more than one occasion we were told that rowlock steps would not “hold up”. An interesting comment as our original step “held up” for almost 90 years. The fact that we were looking to keep things original didn’t seem to matter to most of the contractors. Comments like “we just don’t do it that way anymore” or “why would you want that when this is better?” This project was not starting out well at all..... Enter Gene and Kathy from Mario Grano & Sons. As with most contractors and people for that matter, initial impressions are everything. From day one it felt like we were talking to a couple of old friends. We gave Gene the run down for the project and even showed him a printout of our house from the old catalog. By this point I had resigned that getting my steps back to their original glory wasn’t going to happen but to my surprise was told that it wouldn’t be a problem for them. The entire process was explained to us in great detail and they took the time to answer all of our questions at length. At no point did we feel like this was just another “job” for them. It truly felt as though our project was as important to them as it was to us. We finished up that first meeting with my wife and I looking at one another and all we could say was - WOW! Fast forward a couple of weeks and the job was under way! The guys - what can I say... I’ve been around many a construction site over the years and seen many versions of “the construction worker”. I can honestly say that Mario Grano and Sons have some of the most respectful, hardworking men I’ve ever seen. Due to the scale and duration of the job there was always going to be certain tools that would need to remain throughout the project. Gene asked if we could leave those higher ticket items locked away in the garage at the end of every night. My idea was to leave one of our cars outside but his crew managed to arrange the stored tools like a Tetris puzzle in such a way as to be able to still fit both cars in the garage. The attention to detail was evident from every single member of the crew. The jobsite - was it really one? All told they were here for the better part of a month and at no point did we ever feel inconvenienced. The crew cleaned up every day and made sure that the work area was blocked off for safety reasons and that we always had a safe way to get in and out of the house. Little details like a temporary set of stairs that was used while some of the concrete setup. A temporary mailbox on our front lawn. And my favorite - a strategically placed screw on the threshold of our front door so that should someone forgot that the stairs weren’t there it would be enough to remind them but not enough to stop us from getting out in case of an emergency. As with most major home renovations there are always unknown variables that affect the job as a whole. In our case I, the homeowner became that cause. Because of the volume of soil that was removed for the new porch it became apparent that there would be no better time to waterproof the front of the foundation. Gene and I discussed the additional work as well as the inclusion of new downspout leads to the street, a new side entrance step and new side walkway. In total it added about 4-5 days of work and the last thing I wanted was to delay someone elses project. Gene assured us that they were here to make us happy and that they would have no issues adding the work to the list. Being an engineer myself I had done a number of sketches of our house for various other projects over the years. These sketches were the basis of additional “planter boxes” that I had designed on either side of the porch and were included in the original quote. These boxes were to be about half as high as the porch and there was to be some sort of transition to marry the two different heights. I had sketched a “stepped” and a “curved” version but it was decided that the final decision would be made as the masons neared that point. When that day finally arrived the two sections were mocked up and it became apparent that the curved section looked better but my wife and I didn’t know how the curve would work with the overall squareness of the house. Kathy happened to be there that day and noticed that the curve of the brickwork mimicked the curve of our portico. Instantly the curved transition looked absolutely perfect! I had spent so much time looking “down” that I never bothered to look “up” for the solution! Thank You Kathy!!! This is the level of care and attention to detail that was constant throughout the process. I could probably write a small book with all the little “attention to details” that happened during our project, most of which unfortunately get covered up but this one detail is one that everyone can see and admire. The entire project went off without a single problem. We are extremely happy with the outcome and have had nothing but high praises and compliments on the finished results. For the sheer size and complexity of our project, at no point did we ever question if we had made the right decision in choosing Mario Grano and Sons. You just can’t put a price on the level of confidence that the entire crew instilled in us and how painless it all went. Worth every penny and then some! So back to my original question.....Mario Grano & Sons.....the best? Personally from a contractor point of view I would think that when a customer calls you back to do more work then you’ve done your job extremely well. Having dealt with a few contractors over the years there aren’t many I would call again for even a quote. Not only will I call Mario Grano and Sons again - I WON’T EVEN BOTHER CALLING ANYONE ELSE! That, I feel makes them THE BEST! Thanks again Mario Grano and Sons! Nuno & Theresa, Colonia NJ

The entire job was an extemely pleasant experience, from Ben coming to do the estimate, to Gene showing up with the workers, to the workers cleaning up daily and caring for the property! My husband had several estimates and he just wasn't happy with any of the companies, the estimates were good but just a feeling about the work wasn't good. Everyone wanted to take a shortcut. Enter Ben; he took his time and explained things, the whys and why nots. Was his estimate a little higher? Yes, However, he also knew his business and wasn't taking any shortcuts, as soon as he left my husband and I said together this is who want! Remember you get what you pay for! The job was done timely, professionally, and it came out great! We are now considering them for another job. Would we recommend? Without a doubt!