When’s the Right Time to Remodel After Buying a House?
The right time to remodel after buying a house depends on your goals, budget, and the condition of the property. Others rush into renovation projects…
Home remodeling in Martinez, CA often focuses on improving older homes, updating essential spaces, and creating more functional layouts that support everyday living. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we bring over 40 years of experience helping homeowners complete reliable, well-built renovations that improve both usability and long-term value.
We specialize in kitchen remodels, bathroom upgrades, home additions, and full-home renovations that prioritize durability, efficiency, and practical design. Our approach is centered on clear planning, honest execution, and results that are built to last.
Whether you’re addressing outdated spaces or planning a larger remodel, we deliver solutions that are straightforward, cost-conscious, and thoughtfully executed.
Home remodeling in Martinez, CA requires a practical approach focused on improving function, addressing aging home systems, and delivering long-term value without unnecessary complexity. Many homes in the area benefit from updates that prioritize durability, efficiency, and smarter use of existing space.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we bring over 40 years of experience working on residential remodeling projects that focus on real improvements—better layouts, updated materials, and structural upgrades that support everyday living. Our work is grounded in solving practical problems and delivering results that perform well over time.
We focus on clear planning, cost-conscious execution, and consistent workmanship so homeowners receive improvements that are both functional and financially sensible.
As a home remodeling contractor serving Martinez, CA, we work with homeowners who are looking for practical, cost-effective improvements that enhance the function and durability of their homes. Many properties in the area benefit from updates that address aging materials, outdated layouts, and long-term maintenance needs.
We also serve the surrounding Contra Costa County communities, including Concord, Pleasant Hill, and Benicia. Each area has its own mix of housing styles and renovation needs, from older residential properties to mid-century homes requiring structural or layout improvements.
By working across these nearby cities, we are able to apply proven remodeling approaches that focus on efficiency, reliability, and long-term performance while adapting to the specific conditions of each home.
Ready to learn more about Mares & Dow? We offer zero-obligation consultations, where we can learn more about your project, and you can learn more about who we are and why you might want to choose us as your Martinez, CA, home remodeling contractors.
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights is your go-to choice for Home Remodeling in Martinez, CA. With over three decades of experience, we specialize in transforming homes with high-quality renovations, from kitchens and bathrooms to foundations and attics. Our commitment to excellence is evident in our skilled team, which is focused on delivering top-notch materials, workmanship, and customer satisfaction. For a trusted partner in your home remodeling journey, contact us for a free, no-obligation estimate. Let us help you make your dream home a reality in Martinez.
Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality.
We update kitchens with a focus on improving layout efficiency, replacing worn-out materials, and creating more functional cooking and storage spaces without unnecessary upgrades.
Our bathroom remodeling services focus on replacing outdated fixtures, improving usability, and creating clean, durable spaces that are easy to maintain.
We help homeowners improve outdated homes by addressing inefficient layouts, worn materials, and functional limitations through practical, phased renovations.
Many Martinez homes require more than cosmetic updates. We handle structural improvements, layout corrections, and essential upgrades that improve safety and long-term performance.
We prioritize smart planning and efficient execution to help homeowners improve their homes without unnecessary scope expansion or wasted investment.
Since 1983, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights has proudly served the East Bay with dependable, high-quality residential remodeling. Our decades of experience mean we’ve seen nearly every type of home, layout, and construction challenge—especially in cities like Martinez, which has a mix of older properties and newer builds. We understand local permitting, neighborhood styles, and homeowner expectations. This experience allows us to anticipate issues before they arise and deliver solutions that stand the test of time.
You deserve peace of mind when hiring a contractor. Our team is fully licensed in the state of California, bonded for your financial protection, and insured to cover every aspect of your project. We follow strict building codes, local safety requirements, and industry best practices to ensure that every project is done right, legally, and safely. When you hire Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, you’re working with professionals who stand behind their work.
Why juggle designers, architects, and contractors when you can work with one team from start to finish? Our design-build model means we handle every stage of your remodel—planning, permitting, designing, and building—under one roof. This integrated process reduces miscommunication, cuts down on delays, and helps control your budget. You’ll have a single point of contact throughout your entire project, simplifying the process and improving your experience.
We’re proud to be certified installers for top-tier brands like James Hardie siding, Grip-Tite foundation systems, and VELUX skylights. These certifications mean we meet rigorous training and installation standards, giving you added confidence in our workmanship. You’ll also benefit from manufacturer-backed warranties and the latest product innovations when you work with a certified contractor like us.
As a Bay Area company, we’re committed to sustainable practices that reduce environmental impact and support long-term efficiency. Whether we’re installing energy-efficient windows, using durable fiber cement siding, or upgrading insulation during a remodel, our team looks for ways to make your home greener and more cost-effective. Sustainability isn’t just a trend—it’s part of our core values.
Trust is everything in our industry. That’s why we’re proud that more than half of our new clients come to us through referrals from satisfied homeowners. Our clients know we show up when we say we will, we communicate clearly, and we treat their homes with respect. When neighbors in Martinez recommend us to friends and family, we know we’ve done our job well. That reputation is what drives us, and we work hard every day to earn it.
Our home remodeling projects in Martinez, CA, focus on improving function, extending the life of existing homes, and delivering practical upgrades that make daily living easier. Many of the homes we work on require updates to outdated layouts, worn materials, or inefficient use of space.
Each project is approached with a focus on identifying what needs improvement, addressing it efficiently, and ensuring the finished result is durable and easy to maintain.
We’ve completed kitchen remodels focused on improving layout efficiency, replacing outdated surfaces, and enhancing usability for everyday cooking and storage.
Our bathroom remodeling work emphasizes durable materials, updated fixtures, and improved functionality in compact or outdated spaces.
We’ve helped homeowners modernize older homes by improving layout flow, updating key living areas, and addressing long-term functional issues.
Many projects in Martinez involve more than cosmetic upgrades. We handle essential repairs and structural improvements that help restore safety, efficiency, and long-term performance.
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights is certified and accredited by the best manufacturers in the industry. From Grip-Tite Foundation Systems, to James Hardie Siding, to VELUX Skylights, you can be sure to get the highest quality products for whatever your project.
Serving the San Francisco Bay Area for over 40 years with quality general contracting, home remodeling, and skylight installation means you'll get the benefits of our expertise for every project.
Maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction, we are proud to have provided our customers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area with quality construction and home improvement services for 40 years. With half of our new clients coming to us from referrals, it’s no secret that our customers/friends are truly pleased with the work we do.
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, Inc. is a longstanding partnership of 40 years between Archie Mares, Dennis Dow and hundreds of great customers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. We are a general contractor, building custom homes, additions, home remodeling, skylights, retaining wall construction and commercial remodeling.
Maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction, we are proud to have provided our customers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area with quality construction and home improvement services for 40 years. With half of our new clients coming to us from referrals, it’s no secret that our customers/friends are truly pleased with the work we do.
Martinez homeowners want a remodeling contractor who understands the character of East Bay homes and the challenges that come with renovating them. Many homes in Martinez range from historic properties near downtown to mid-century and modern suburban homes throughout the area.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we bring more than 40 years of remodeling experience serving homeowners across the East Bay. Our team understands how to preserve architectural charm while upgrading homes with modern functionality, energy efficiency, and structural reliability.
Homeowners in Martinez trust our team because we provide:
• Clear communication throughout the project
• Experienced, licensed remodeling professionals
• High-quality materials and proven construction methods
• Honest estimates and transparent timelines
• Attention to detail that protects the value of your home
Whether you’re planning a kitchen renovation, expanding your living space, or updating an older home, we provide the expertise needed to complete your project with confidence.
A successful remodeling project starts with careful planning and clear communication. Our proven process helps ensure your renovation moves forward smoothly from start to finish.
We begin by learning about your goals, budget, and vision for the project.
Our team evaluates your existing structure and identifies the best approach for your remodel.
We develop a detailed plan that outlines materials, scope of work, and timelines.
Our experienced craftsmen complete the work with precision and respect for your home.
We review every detail of the finished project to ensure it meets your expectations.
Homeowners in Martinez often remodel their homes to improve comfort, increase living space, and add long-term property value. Some of the most common remodeling projects we complete include:
Modern kitchen upgrades with improved layouts, custom cabinetry, updated appliances, and better lighting.
Bathroom renovations that improve functionality while creating a more relaxing and modern space.
Room additions, expanded living areas, or second-story additions to accommodate growing families.
Natural lighting solutions using high-quality VELUX skylights and sun tunnels.
Transforming unused space into home offices, guest rooms, or additional living areas.
Foundation repair, waterproofing, and structural upgrades that improve long-term stability.
Each remodeling project is customized to the needs of the homeowner and the structure of the home.
Martinez has many homes that were built decades ago. Remodeling these homes requires a contractor with experience working on older structures.
Common challenges in older homes include:
• Outdated electrical and plumbing systems
• Limited insulation and energy efficiency
• Structural wear over time
• Layouts that no longer fit modern living needs
Our team specializes in upgrading older homes while maintaining their character. We combine modern construction techniques with thoughtful design to create spaces that feel both updated and authentic.
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights proudly serves homeowners throughout Martinez, including:
• Downtown Martinez
• Alhambra Valley
• Virginia Hills
• Mountain View neighborhood
• Muir Oaks area
We also work with homeowners in nearby East Bay communities including Concord, Pleasant Hill, Lafayette, and Walnut Creek.
Martinez continues to be one of the most desirable communities in Contra Costa County. With its historic downtown, waterfront access, and proximity to major Bay Area job centers, many homeowners choose to renovate rather than relocate.
A well-planned remodel can:
• Increase home value
• Improve energy efficiency
• Add functional living space
• Modernize older layouts
• Enhance long-term comfort
For many homeowners, remodeling provides the opportunity to stay in the neighborhood they love while improving the home they live in.
Quality and service come first. We approach every job, big or small, with the same care and attention to detail we’d give our own homes. Our team combines time-tested building practices with modern innovation to deliver results that stand the test of time.
Ready to start your next project? Whether you’re planning a home remodel, skylight installation, or foundation repair, our team is here to help.
Reach out to us for a free consultation. We’ll listen, offer expert guidance, and provide a detailed estimate tailored to your goals.
To enhance the lives of Bay Area homeowners through expert construction, thoughtful design, and dependable service. For over 40 years, our mission has remained simple: build with integrity, serve with pride, and create spaces our clients love to live in.
We believe in integrity, craftsmanship, and lasting relationships. Every project is built on honesty, transparency, and respect - for our clients, our partners, and the homes we’re entrusted to improve.
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights installed a large Velux skylight for me in August 2017. The entire experience was wonderful and the skylight is beautiful, both functionally and aesthetically. Janet made sure the work was scheduled to be completed before a trip I had planned. Jimmy measured carefully when he quoted the work and even accommodated a last minute change on the location when he arrived to do the work. They protected my new floors and were careful to keep dust to a minimum. Archie came by to ensure that all was going smoothly. Freddy helped matched the stain on my nearly 70 year old tongue and grove ceiling that really took some effort and he even matched some a few small spots that a previous contractor had sanded and removed the original stain. EVERYONE was cheerful and knowledgeable. Now, my little mid century house has emerged into the light!
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights replaced two aging skylights in our bedroom and installed automatic blinds on four skylights. This was not an easy job, since our bedroom has very very high cathedral ceilings. In fact, one other skylight installer refused to do the job altogether, and a second made a bid that was almost twice as expensive as Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights. Janet Mares, who was our main contact for the job, was a pleasure to work with. Her son, Jimmy, who led the installation, was fearless climbing the ceiling, and he eally knew his stuff. We’re thrilled with our new and improved skylights, and we appreciate Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights’ solid, reasonably priced, work. Thanks guys!
I’ve had Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights install 3 sun tunnels in my home and most recently, 2 skylights in my garage/art studio. I couldn’t be more satisfied with the quality of their work and professionalism! All my communications with their office and installers have been extremely pleasant. I would use them again (and again) and highly recommend them to anyone looking to install Velux skylights/sun tunnels in their home!
Being a new homeowner, i really did my research before having someone come out and give me a quote on a skylight. You never know what to believe when you read yelp reviews. So, i went ahead and had Jimmy from mares and dow come out and give me an estimate. He was right on time, came out and measured and was very professional while he was here. Janet called me a few days later and sent me over an estimate. I went them them and couldn’t be happier. It arrived in the time frame she had told me, and they were out that week. The workers came out on time, and were very friendly and professional. Dennis ( one of the owners) came out as well and checked on the job. The went above and beyond with their work. The skylight looks beautiful! Night and day from the old one. If you are wanting a skylight, i strongly reccomend going with mare and dow
We had Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights install a Velux skylight in our new master bathroom. The space was small and dark, so Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights suggested a big skylight to add in lots of natural light. They built in a double crown molding to beautifully frame the skylight, and now the space is open and airy with wonderful natural light. We can open the skylight during warm months to let in fresh air. It was a superb addition to our bathroom renovation and a great suggestion from Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights. They did a fantastic job and were great to work with! Thanks guys!
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Home remodeling is a major investment, and Martinez homeowners often have important questions before starting the process. To help you plan with confidence, we’ve answered the most common questions we hear from homeowners in Martinez, CA, when working with Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights. These FAQs provide a clear understanding of what to expect, how our team works locally, and how we help create homes that are more functional, comfortable, and built to last.
We provide full-service home remodeling in Martinez, including kitchen and bathroom remodels, whole-home renovations, room additions, garage conversions, siding upgrades, skylight installations, and structural improvements.
Yes. Martinez features many older and historic homes that require careful planning and expert craftsmanship. We’re experienced in updating these properties while preserving character, improving functionality, and ensuring compliance with modern building codes.
Absolutely. Our design-build approach allows us to manage your project from initial design and planning through permitting and construction, creating a seamless and coordinated remodeling experience.
Remodeling costs vary depending on the scope of work, materials, and existing home conditions. Martinez remodeling projects can range from smaller upgrades to full-home renovations. We provide transparent, detailed estimates so you know what to expect upfront.
Timelines depend on the size and complexity of the remodel. Smaller projects may take several weeks, while larger renovations or additions may take a few months. We provide a clear schedule as part of the planning process.
Yes. We manage all required permits and coordinate inspections with the City of Martinez to ensure your remodeling project meets local building codes and regulations.
In many cases, yes. We work with Martinez homeowners to phase construction and minimize disruption, allowing you to remain in your home safely throughout the remodeling project.
Getting started is simple. Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights to schedule a free consultation. We’ll review your goals, evaluate your home, discuss budget and timeline options, and help you move forward with confidence.
If you’re planning a home remodeling project in Martinez, CA, working with an experienced contractor who focuses on practical improvements can help you avoid unnecessary costs and delays. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we bring over 40 years of experience helping homeowners improve older and outdated homes with durable, functional renovations.
Whether you’re updating a kitchen, renovating a bathroom, or addressing broader home improvements, we focus on clear planning, efficient execution, and results that are built to last.
Let’s improve your home in a way that’s practical, cost-aware, and done right the first time.
Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today to schedule your consultation.