Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights Inc.

General Contractor Oakland, CA

Serving San Francisco and East Bay Since 1983

What Can Experienced General Contractors In Oakland, CA, Do For You?

General Contractor Near Me: Reliable Home Renovation Services

Serving Oakland Homeowners with Trusted Remodeling Since 1983

Looking for a reliable general contractor near me in Oakland, CA? Many contractors claim to “do it all,” but only a few have the experience, reputation, and craftsmanship to truly deliver. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we bring over 40 years of residential construction experience to every project—earning the trust of homeowners throughout Oakland and the Bay Area.

From structural repairs to full-scale renovations, we offer licensed, insured, and top-quality general contracting that transforms your home with lasting value.


Interior Remodeling & Structural Services in Oakland

Our Oakland remodeling services are built for both beauty and resilience. Whether you’re renovating an older Craftsman in Temescal or expanding a hillside property in Montclair, we manage every phase of your project—from plans and permits to execution and inspections.

Popular services include:

  • Kitchen Remodeling – Layout upgrades, cabinets, countertops, and custom solutions

  • Bathroom Remodeling – Modern amenities, tilework, lighting, and more

  • Foundation Repair & Seismic Retrofits – Especially critical for older homes in earthquake-prone areas

  • Engineering & Dry Rot Repair – Structural integrity from the inside out


Exterior Renovations & Skylight Installation

Want to increase curb appeal or enjoy more natural light? Our expert exterior remodeling services are designed for function, durability, and style—ideal for Oakland’s diverse housing stock and coastal climate.

We offer:

  • Skylight Installation – Brighten interiors while improving energy efficiency

  • Patio & Deck Construction – Build your outdoor living space with durable, weather-resistant materials

  • Doors, Siding & Windows – Upgrade for energy savings and aesthetic appeal

  • Garage Conversions & Finished Basements – Create more usable living space


Why Oakland Homeowners Choose Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights

We’re more than just builders—we’re your trusted partners in home transformation. For over four decades, Oakland homeowners have counted on us for:

  • Local experience with Bay Area building codes and permits

  • Full-service project management from start to finish

  • Honest estimates and clear communication

  • Quality craftsmanship that stands the test of time


Start Your Oakland Remodeling Project Today

Stop searching for a “general contractor around me” and work with the pros who have been serving Oakland since 1983. Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights for a free in-home consultation today.

 

Call (415) 447-6136 or contact us online to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions About Our General Contractor Services in Oakland, CA

Do you work with older homes in Oakland? Yes, we have extensive experience renovating and retrofitting older homes throughout Oakland’s neighborhoods—from historic Craftsman homes in Rockridge to mid-century properties in the Oakland Hills. We’re familiar with the unique challenges these homes present, including structural updates and permitting.
Yes, we have extensive experience renovating and retrofitting older homes throughout Oakland’s neighborhoods—from historic Craftsman homes in Rockridge to mid-century properties in the Oakland Hills. We’re familiar with the unique challenges these homes present, including structural updates and permitting.

Most projects, especially those involving structural changes, electrical updates, or additions, will require a permit. Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights handles all aspects of the permitting process with the City of Oakland, ensuring full code compliance and peace of mind.

Yes. We are fully licensed and insured in the state of California. Our credentials and insurance give you confidence that your project is protected and managed to the highest standards.

Absolutely. We install skylights, energy-efficient siding, windows, and doors, and we always recommend sustainable materials and systems that improve insulation, reduce energy bills, and increase long-term home value.

Yes, we specialize in foundation repairs and seismic retrofits, which are especially important in Oakland due to the area’s seismic risk. We’ll assess your home’s foundation and recommend the best solutions to keep it safe and stable.

Project timelines vary depending on the scope. A small bathroom upgrade might take a few weeks, while a full kitchen remodel or foundation retrofit could take several months. We provide clear schedules and regular progress updates so you always know what to expect.

Costs depend on the size and complexity of your project. After a free in-home consultation, we’ll provide a detailed, transparent estimate with no hidden fees.

Yes. We offer garage conversions and finished basements to help you create additional living space without the cost of an addition. These projects are popular for growing families or creating rental units in Oakland’s competitive housing market.

Yes. We offer full design-build services, including house plans, engineering consultation, and structural assessments—so everything stays under one roof and on track.

With over 40 years of experience, we combine craftsmanship, clear communication, and deep local knowledge. We manage every step of the process—permits, materials, labor, inspections—so your experience is efficient and stress-free.

Call our San Francisco office at (415) 447-6136 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation. We’ll visit your home, learn about your goals, and provide expert recommendations tailored to your space and budget.