Facebook-f X-twitter Youtube Instagram Linkedin-in
SCHEDULE A FREE ESTIMATE
Logo Official

We Proudly Serve as the Premier VELUX® Skylight Specialists in Benicia, CA

Serving Benicia and East Bay Since 1983

Skylights in Benicia

Transform your Benicia home with Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights – your trusted provider of premium skylight solutions. We excel in bringing natural light into your spaces through our expert services in Skylight Installation, Skylight Repair, General Contracting, and Home Remodeling. Contact us for a FREE Skylight Consultation to learn about our diverse range of skylights.

Let Sunlight Illuminate Your Space

Transform your space with the radiance of sunlight from our premium skylights. Our selection, available in different sizes and styles, not only illuminates your area but also offers ventilation options, creating a refreshing ambiance. Explore our range, including the Solar Powered Fresh Air Skylights, by contacting our knowledgeable team.

Energize Your Spaces with Skylights

Our skylights, particularly the Sun Tunnel series, are ideal for energizing small spaces like stairwells, hallways, and corners. Introducing natural light into your home, school, or workplace can enhance creativity, improve vitamin D levels, and elevate feelings of happiness and motivation.

Decades of Expertise in Benicia, CA

With a remarkable forty-year track record, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights is a leading name in home remodeling, general contracting, and Skylight Installation in Benicia. Our dedicated team serves a diverse clientele, offering top-notch services and enhancing residential and commercial properties with their vast experience and expertise.

Other Services

Ready to bring your vision to life?

Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality.

SCHEDULE A FREE ESTIMATE
Kitchen Remodel Alameda CA

Commercial Skylight Solutions for Enhanced Workspaces

Elevate the atmosphere of your workspace with our cutting-edge commercial skylights, designed to improve the ambiance of entrances and meeting areas. Explore our selection, including skylights with solar-powered blinds in various modern hues.

Residential Skylight Services for Enhanced Living Spaces

Revitalize your living space with our professional residential skylight services. Whether it’s updating old skylights or crafting a bespoke light-enhanced area, our team is ready to assist. Offering a ten-year installation guarantee and a twenty-year warranty, our skylights are crafted for longevity. Residents of Alameda can also explore federal tax benefits, potentially saving up to 30% or an average of $850.

Opt for Mares & Dow Construction for Premier Skylight Services

Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights is renowned for our commitment to excellence, affordability, and exceptional customer service. As a VELUX® 5 Star Skylight Specialist, rely on us for all your Skylight Installation, Skylight Repair, General Contracting, or Home Remodeling needs, and brighten your spaces with unmatched quality.

Types of Skylights

Sun Tunnel Skylights Clayton California

Solar Powered “Fresh Air” Skylight

Velux® Skylights

“Fresh Air” Skylight features a solar panel that captures any available daylight and is the power source that opens and closes the skylight. 

Sun Tunnel®

Velux® Skylights

Providing an excellent value and a big impact to any project makes the SUN TUNNEL skylight an excellent choice for your daylighting needs.

Fixed Curb Mount

Velux® Skylights

Our Group has been building relationships and projects last. Serving an impressive list of long-term clients with experience.

Roof Window Skylights

Velux® Skylights

The natural light that is harnessed and diffused through quality commercial skylights enhances the experience of indoor spaces, and research shows it helps health.

Modular Skylights

Velux® Skylights

Modular Skylights can be combined in several rooflight configurations, creating perfect solutions for a wide variety of buildings.

Commercial Sun Tunnel Skylights

Velux® Skylights

VELUX Commercial SUN TUNNEL® skylights are designed for flat or low slope commercial roofing applications that are above spaces that will benefit from more sunlight.

Mares & Dow Construction Inc.

Dynamic Dome Skylights

Velux® Skylights

VELUX Dynamic Dome, an innovative product that balances the structural demands of industry professionals with an architecturally progressive design.

Flat Roof Exit Skylights

Velux® Skylights

Opening up a flat roof with skylights can brighten your space and transform any room with sunlight and sky views. And the VELUX Flat Roof Exit Skylight is pleasing to the eyes.

SkyMax® Large Span Skylights

Velux® Skylights

Fill your home with bright, natural daylight! Spanning up to 10 feet, the dramatic SkyMax skylight doubles the square footage of standard flat glass skylights.

Benefits of Going with Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights

Experience & Accreditations

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.

Knowledge & Expertise

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.

Proven Customer Satisfaction

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.

40
Years of Experience

Serving the San Francisco Bay Area for 40 Years

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.

  • Over 40 Years of Bay Area Expertise
  • Hands-On Leadership
  • Dual Licensed Expertise
  • VELUX 5-Star Skylight Specialists
  • Referral-Driven Reputation
  • Seismic-Safe, Design-Focused Construction
Learn More About Us

Philosophy

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.

Get In Touch

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.

Schedule a Free Estimate

Our Mission

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.

Values

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.

Happy Customers
0 +
Skylights Installed
0 +
Years of Service
0 +
5 Star Reviews
0 +

Words of Appreciation from Our Valued Clients

At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we believe great service is its own reward. Every satisfied client, glowing review, and lasting relationship reminds us why we’ve dedicated over 40 years to building with integrity, craftsmanship, and care.

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!

Norma B. San Francisco, California

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!

Aaron R. Concord, California

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!

Myla L. Concord, California

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

Chris W. Walnut Creek, California

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!

Jennifer S. Walnut Creek, California

VELUX® Skylights Service Areas

SCHEDULE A FREE ESTIMATE

Building Knowledge: Insights From 40 Years of Craftsmanship

At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, sharing knowledge is part of our commitment to great service. Our blog offers expert tips, project insights, and inspiration drawn from decades of experience building and remodeling homes across the Bay Area.
View More
When’s the Right Time to Remodel After Buying a House?
April 13, 2025 0

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…

What’s the Best Way to Remodel a Home for a Growing Family?
April 13, 2025 0

What’s the Best Way to Remodel a Home for a…

The best way to remodel a home for a growing family is to focus on utility. These spaces need to be flexible enough to transform…

Is Smart Lighting a Gimmick or a Game-Changer for Home Remodeling?
April 13, 2025 0

Is Smart Lighting a Gimmick or a Game-Changer for Home…

Smart lighting is an easy, practical upgrade for home remodeling, rolling convenience into energy efficiency and customizable ambiance. You can easily control brightness levels, color…

Frequently Asked Questions About Skylight Installation in Benicia, CA

Skylights are a popular home improvement option for homeowners in Benicia, CA, who want to increase natural light, improve indoor comfort, and enhance energy efficiency. With Benicia’s mix of historic homes, newer residential developments, and seasonal weather changes, professional skylight installation is essential to ensure proper sealing, long-term durability, and compliance with local building codes. Below are answers to common questions homeowners ask when working with a professional skylight contractor in Benicia.

Homes in Benicia commonly benefit from fixed skylights, venting skylights, solar-powered skylights, and sun tunnels. Fixed skylights are ideal for bringing in natural light without affecting airflow, while venting skylights help release heat and moisture in kitchens, bathrooms, and upper floors. Sun tunnels are a great option for hallways, closets, and interior rooms where traditional skylights may not fit due to roof design or space limitations.

The cost of skylight installation in Benicia depends on several factors, including the type and size of the skylight, roof pitch, accessibility, and whether structural modifications are required. Most homeowners can expect prices to start around $1,500 and range up to $3,500 or more per skylight, particularly for custom, motorized, or solar-powered units. A professional on-site assessment provides the most accurate pricing.

Yes, modern skylights are designed to improve energy efficiency by using insulated glazing, Low-E coatings, and UV protection. Properly installed skylights reduce the need for artificial lighting and help regulate indoor temperatures throughout the year, making them a practical energy-saving upgrade for Benicia’s climate.

Skylights can add value to Benicia homes by improving interior brightness, enhancing architectural appeal, and creating a more open and inviting living space. In Benicia’s real estate market, professionally installed skylights are often considered a desirable feature that can help homes stand out to potential buyers.

 

Most standard skylight installations in Benicia can be completed within one day. Projects that involve multiple skylights, custom sizing, or roof structural adjustments may require additional time. A professional skylight contractor will plan the project timeline based on roof conditions, weather, and local permitting requirements.

 

Yes, skylight installation typically requires a building permit to ensure the work complies with local and state building codes. A licensed skylight contractor will handle the permitting process and coordinate inspections to ensure compliance with Benicia and Solano County regulations.

 

Routine skylight maintenance includes inspecting the glass, seals, and flashing for signs of wear or damage, especially after storms or high winds. Keeping the skylight clean and free of debris helps prevent leaks and extends its lifespan. Venting skylights may also require periodic checks of motors, screens, and opening mechanisms.

When selecting a skylight contractor in Benicia, look for licensed and insured professionals with experience working on local roof types and home styles. Strong customer reviews, manufacturer certifications, transparent estimates, and warranty-backed workmanship are key indicators of a reliable contractor. Familiarity with Benicia’s building codes ensures a safe, long-lasting skylight installation.