What Should Homeowners Ask Before Signing A Deck Installation Contract?
Key Takeaways Homeowners must do their homework, and ask their contractors the right questions to confirm that they’re not working with someone who’s inexperienced, unlicensed…
A well-designed deck or porch does more than add square footage to your property, and it transforms the way you live at home. Whether you’re hosting family gatherings, enjoying quiet evenings outdoors, or creating a welcoming front entrance, a custom-built outdoor space can significantly improve both the functionality and value of your home. For homeowners in Concord, investing in professional deck and porch construction is one of the most effective ways to maximize outdoor living while enhancing curb appeal.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we understand that every homeowner has a unique vision for their property. Since 1983, we have helped Bay Area homeowners create beautiful, durable, and highly functional outdoor spaces that blend seamlessly with their homes and lifestyles. With more than 40 years of construction experience, our team combines expert craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and proven building practices to deliver decks and porches that are built to last.
As a trusted general contractor serving Concord and the surrounding East Bay communities, we specialize in custom outdoor construction solutions tailored to your goals. Whether you’re interested in a traditional backyard deck, an expansive multi-level outdoor entertainment space, a covered porch, or a complete outdoor living transformation, we have the expertise to bring your ideas to life.
If you’re considering upgrading your outdoor living space, our professional Deck & Porch Construction services offer the expertise and experience to deliver exceptional results.
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.
Many homeowners know they want a better outdoor space but aren’t sure where to begin. Whether your existing deck has become outdated, your backyard lacks usable entertaining space, or you’ve always dreamed of adding a welcoming front porch, professional deck and porch construction can completely transform the way you use and enjoy your property.
Concord’s mild climate makes outdoor living a natural extension of the home. A thoughtfully designed deck or porch creates a comfortable environment for relaxing, entertaining guests, dining outdoors, or simply spending more time with family. Instead of viewing your backyard as unused space, you can transform it into a destination that serves your lifestyle year-round.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we help homeowners move beyond basic outdoor structures and create customized solutions that fit their needs. Some clients are looking for a simple, low-maintenance deck where they can enjoy weekend barbecues. Others want a sophisticated outdoor living area featuring multiple levels, integrated seating, decorative railings, pergolas, or custom lighting. No matter the scope of your project, our team works closely with you to create a space that feels like a natural extension of your home.
As a full-service contractor, we guide you through every phase of the project, from initial planning and design to construction and completion. Our goal is to make the process straightforward, efficient, and enjoyable while delivering a finished product that exceeds expectations.
Whether you’re planning a new custom deck, replacing an aging structure, or building a beautiful front porch, our experienced team is ready to help. Learn more about our professional Deck & Porch Construction services and see how we can help create an outdoor space tailored to your home and lifestyle.
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.
Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality.
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.
When investing in a new deck, porch, or outdoor living space, choosing the right contractor is every bit as important as choosing the design itself. Homeowners want a construction partner they can trust to deliver quality workmanship, clear communication, and lasting value.
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.
Every homeowner has a different vision for their outdoor space. Some want a quiet retreat for relaxation, while others are looking to create the perfect environment for entertaining family and friends. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we provide comprehensive Deck & Porch Construction services in Concord designed to transform underused outdoor areas into beautiful, functional extensions of your home.
To learn more about our professional Deck & Porch Construction services, speak with our team about your project goals and discover how we can help create an outdoor space that you’ll enjoy for years to come.
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.
As one of the largest cities in Contra Costa County, Concord offers a diverse mix of established neighborhoods, newer residential developments, hillside properties, and family-friendly communities. Each area has its own architectural character, lot sizes, and outdoor living opportunities. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we have spent more than 40 years helping Bay Area homeowners create custom outdoor spaces that complement their homes while maximizing comfort, functionality, and long-term value.
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.
Many Concord homeowners have outdoor spaces with incredible potential but struggle with layouts, aging structures, or functionality issues that prevent them from fully enjoying their property. Whether you’re dealing with an outdated deck, limited entertaining space, or a backyard that simply doesn’t meet your family’s needs, the right construction solution can dramatically improve both your lifestyle and your home’s value.
Learn more about our professional Deck & Porch Construction services and discover how we can help transform your Concord property into a beautiful, functional outdoor living space.
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.
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.
When investing in a new deck or porch, experience matters. The quality of the design, materials, craftsmanship, and structural integrity all play a critical role in how well your outdoor space performs over time. That’s why homeowners throughout Concord continue to trust Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights for dependable construction services backed by more than four decades of hands-on experience.
Since 1983, our team has proudly served homeowners across Concord and the greater Bay Area, helping them improve their properties through expert construction, remodeling, and outdoor living projects. Over the years, we’ve worked on homes of every age, style, and size, giving us the knowledge and versatility to deliver solutions that complement each property’s unique character while meeting modern lifestyle needs.
As a licensed General Contractor and Electrical Contractor, we bring a level of expertise that few companies can match. Our leadership team, including founders Archie Mares and Dennis Dow, built the company on a commitment to integrity, quality workmanship, and personalized service. Today, those same values continue to guide every project we complete, from custom deck construction and porch installations to major home improvements and structural upgrades.
If you’re looking for an experienced contractor with a proven history of delivering outstanding outdoor living projects, explore our professional Deck & Porch Construction services and see why homeowners throughout Concord continue to choose Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights for their outdoor improvement needs.
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.
Adding a new deck or porch is one of the most rewarding investments you can make in your home. A thoughtfully designed outdoor space can improve your daily lifestyle, increase your home’s functionality, enhance curb appeal, and create a comfortable area for relaxing and entertaining. Achieving the best results requires careful planning and working with an experienced contractor who understands both the structural and design aspects of outdoor construction.
If you’re considering a new deck or porch in Concord, taking the following steps can help ensure a smooth and successful project.
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 and learn how our professional Deck & Porch Construction services can transform your Concord home.
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!
Key Takeaways Homeowners must do their homework, and ask their contractors the right questions to confirm that they’re not working with someone who’s inexperienced, unlicensed…
Key Takeaways A new deck installation before you sell your home can really add to the value and appeal of your home, particularly when your…
Key Takeaways Check any deck installer’s credentials, licensing and insurance to protect yourself from potential risk and to comply with local regulations. Evaluate the contractor’s…
As a trusted Bay Area general contractor since 1983, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights proudly provides professional deck and porch construction services throughout Concord and neighboring East Bay communities. Our decades of experience working on homes of all ages, styles, and property layouts allow us to deliver outdoor living solutions that complement the unique character of each neighborhood while meeting the practical needs of local homeowners.
Concord homeowners value outdoor spaces that provide comfort, functionality, and long-term durability. Whether you’re looking to build a spacious backyard deck for entertaining, a welcoming front porch that enhances curb appeal, or a custom outdoor living area designed around your lifestyle, our team has the knowledge and expertise to bring your vision to life. We understand local construction requirements, regional weather conditions, and the design preferences that help outdoor spaces thrive throughout the East Bay.
To learn more about our custom Deck & Porch Construction services, explore the solutions we offer for homeowners throughout Concord and the surrounding communities.
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.
Your outdoor space should be a place where memories are made, gatherings are enjoyed, and everyday life feels a little more comfortable. Whether you’re envisioning a spacious backyard deck for entertaining, a welcoming front porch that enhances curb appeal, or a custom outdoor living area designed around your lifestyle, the right contractor can make all the difference.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we’ve spent more than 40 years helping Bay Area homeowners transform their properties with quality construction and exceptional craftsmanship. Since 1983, we’ve built a reputation for delivering dependable results, honest communication, and outdoor spaces that stand the test of time. Our team understands that a deck or porch is more than just a structure, but it’s an investment in your home, your lifestyle, and your property’s long-term value.
If you’re ready to upgrade your outdoor living experience, now is the perfect time to get started. Explore our professional Deck & Porch Construction services to learn how we help homeowners throughout Concord create stunning outdoor spaces that enhance both beauty and functionality.
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.
Planning a new deck or porch comes with plenty of questions, from choosing the right materials to understanding timelines and design options. Below are answers to some of the most common questions homeowners ask about deck and porch construction in Concord. If you need additional information or would like to discuss your project, the experienced team at Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights is here to help.
The cost of a deck or porch project depends on several factors, including the size of the structure, material selections, site conditions, design complexity, and custom features such as built-in seating, pergolas, lighting, or multiple levels. A simple backyard deck will have different requirements than a fully customized outdoor living space. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we provide detailed consultations and transparent estimates so you understand exactly what to expect before construction begins.
The best decking material depends on your goals, budget, and maintenance preferences. Traditional wood decking offers natural beauty and timeless appeal, while composite decking provides excellent durability and lower maintenance requirements. During your consultation, our team will discuss the advantages of each option and help you choose the best solution for your home and lifestyle. Learn more about our professional Deck & Porch Construction services and available design options.
Every project is unique. Factors such as project size, requirements, weather conditions, material availability, and site preparation can impact the timeline. Smaller projects may be completed relatively quickly, while larger custom outdoor living spaces may require additional planning and construction time. Our team provides a realistic project schedule and keeps you informed throughout every phase of the process.
The timeline for a deck or porch construction project depends on factors such as the size of the structure, the materials selected, and the complexity of the design. Smaller projects may be completed within a few days, while larger or custom builds can take several weeks. Working with an experienced Bay Area general contractor like Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights helps keep your project organized, on schedule, and built with attention to quality from start to finish.
Yes. A professionally designed and properly constructed deck or porch can improve curb appeal, increase usable living space, and make your property more attractive to future buyers. Many Concord homeowners view outdoor living areas as a valuable extension of the home, making deck and porch construction a worthwhile long-term investment.
Absolutely. Many properties throughout Concord feature elevation changes that require specialized design and construction solutions. Our team has extensive experience building decks on challenging terrain, including multi-level deck systems that maximize usable outdoor space while complementing the natural landscape.
Today's outdoor living spaces can be customized in countless ways. Popular features include:
We work closely with homeowners to create personalized outdoor environments that fit their lifestyle and enhance everyday living.
The lifespan of a deck depends on factors such as construction quality, materials used, weather exposure, and ongoing maintenance. A professionally built deck using quality materials can provide many years of safe and reliable performance. Our focus on craftsmanship, structural integrity, and durable construction practices helps ensure long-lasting results.
Yes. Many homeowners contact us when their existing deck has become outdated, damaged, or no longer meets their needs. We can evaluate the condition of your current structure and recommend whether repairs, upgrades, or complete replacement will provide the best long-term value. Our deck replacement solutions are designed to improve safety, functionality, and appearance.
For more than 40 years, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights has served homeowners throughout Concord and the Bay Area with dependable construction services. Our clients choose us because of our extensive experience, commitment to quality craftsmanship, hands-on project management, honest communication, and dedication to customer satisfaction. We approach every project with the same care and attention we would give our own homes, delivering outdoor spaces built for lasting enjoyment.