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…
Your garage can become one of the most functional and valuable spaces in your home. Whether you envision a modern workshop, organized storage area, home gym, hobby space, or an extension of your living area, a professionally designed garage remodel can dramatically improve both everyday convenience and long-term property value. In a city like Berkeley, where every square foot matters, transforming an underused garage into a purposeful space is a smart investment for homeowners.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights Inc., we provide custom garage remodeling in Berkeley, CA tailored to your home’s architecture, lifestyle, and future needs. With more than 40 years of experience serving the San Francisco Bay Area, our team delivers exceptional craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and dependable project management from start to finish. Whether your garage needs cosmetic upgrades or a complete transformation, we create spaces that are attractive, durable, and built to last.
Every project begins by understanding how you want to use your garage. From improving lighting and insulation to installing custom cabinetry, upgraded flooring, new electrical systems, and functional layouts, we design solutions that maximize comfort and efficiency while maintaining the highest construction standards.
If you’re considering upgrading your garage, learn more about our Garage Remodeling services: https://maresdow.com/garage-remodeling-3/
Start your project with Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights Inc. today! We look forward to bringing your vision to life with quality craftsmanship and exceptional service.
Schedule a Free Estimate: https://maresdow.com/contact/
Choosing the right garage remodeling contractor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your project. A successful remodel requires more than quality construction—it demands careful planning, transparent communication, experienced craftsmanship, and a team that understands local homes, building practices, and your long-term goals.
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights Inc. has been helping Bay Area homeowners improve their properties since 1983. Our extensive experience with remodeling projects allows us to create garages that are both highly functional and beautifully integrated with the rest of the home. Whether you’re updating an aging garage, increasing storage capacity, creating a flexible workspace, or preparing your home for future needs, we deliver customized solutions that fit your vision and budget.
Unlike contractors who focus only on construction, we take a comprehensive approach to garage remodeling. We carefully evaluate your existing space, discuss your objectives, recommend practical design improvements, and execute every phase with meticulous attention to detail. Our goal is to make the remodeling process straightforward while delivering results you’ll enjoy for years to come.
Homeowners throughout Berkeley choose us because we offer:
Whether you’re creating additional living functionality, improving organization, enhancing your home’s appearance, or increasing resale value, our experienced team is ready to help.
Explore our complete Garage Remodeling services:
https://maresdow.com/garage-remodeling-3/
Ready to transform your garage? Start your project with Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights Inc. today! Schedule your Free Estimate: https://maresdow.com/contact/
When investing in a garage remodel, choosing the right contractor makes all the difference. You want a team that understands your goals, respects your home, communicates clearly, and delivers exceptional workmanship from start to finish. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights Inc., we’ve spent more than four decades helping Bay Area homeowners improve their properties with quality construction solutions that stand the test of time. Our experience, craftsmanship, and customer-first approach have made us a trusted remodeling contractor throughout Berkeley and the surrounding communities.
Every garage remodeling project begins with listening. We take time to understand how you want to use your garage today while planning for your future needs. Whether you’re creating a dedicated workspace, maximizing storage, building a home gym, or converting unused square footage into a more functional extension of your home, we tailor every detail to fit your lifestyle.
Our remodeling team is committed to quality at every stage of construction. From design consultation and material selection to framing, electrical work, insulation, flooring, cabinetry, lighting, and finishing touches, we focus on precision and long-lasting performance. We believe that excellent craftsmanship is reflected in both the visible details and the structural integrity behind the walls.
Berkeley homeowners choose Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights Inc. because we offer:
Unlike one-size-fits-all remodeling companies, we understand that every Berkeley home has its own architectural character and unique challenges. From older Craftsman homes to contemporary residences, we create garage remodels that complement the home’s overall design while maximizing functionality.
Whether your goal is to improve organization, increase usable space, enhance curb appeal, or boost property value, our experienced team is ready to help bring your vision to life.
Learn more about our complete Garage Remodeling services:
https://maresdow.com/garage-remodeling-3/
Start your project with Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights Inc. today! We look forward to bringing your vision to life with quality craftsmanship and exceptional service.
Schedule a Free Estimate:
https://maresdow.com/contact/
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.
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!
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…
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Every homeowner has a different vision for their garage. Some need better organization, while others want additional living space, improved functionality, or a complete modern transformation. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights Inc., we provide comprehensive garage remodeling services that are customized to meet your goals, budget, and the unique characteristics of your Berkeley home.
Rather than offering cookie-cutter renovations, we design each garage remodel around how you plan to use the space. Our experienced team carefully evaluates your existing garage, recommends practical improvements, and delivers high-quality craftsmanship throughout every phase of construction.
Our Berkeley garage remodeling services include:
Transform outdated or underutilized garages into attractive, highly functional spaces with comprehensive renovations. We modernize layouts, improve finishes, and create garages that better support your daily lifestyle.
Maximize every square foot with custom storage solutions designed to reduce clutter and improve accessibility. We install shelving systems, built-in cabinetry, workbenches, overhead storage, and organizational features tailored to your needs.
Upgrade worn concrete with durable, attractive flooring solutions that resist stains, moisture, and everyday wear. Modern garage flooring improves both appearance and long-term performance while making maintenance much easier.
Proper lighting dramatically improves the usability of any garage. We install energy-efficient LED lighting, additional outlets, dedicated circuits, EV charger readiness, upgraded electrical panels when needed, and improved workspace illumination.
Many Berkeley garages become uncomfortable because they’re poorly insulated. We improve comfort by upgrading insulation, sealing gaps, and recommending energy-efficient improvements that help regulate indoor temperatures throughout the year.
Whether you’re a woodworker, artist, cyclist, or DIY enthusiast, we can create a dedicated workspace designed around your hobbies. Custom layouts provide better storage, improved lighting, durable surfaces, and increased functionality.
Convert unused garage space into a private fitness area complete with durable flooring, ventilation improvements, mirrors, lighting, storage, and electrical upgrades to support your equipment.
Modern garages often serve multiple purposes at once. We design flexible layouts that combine parking, storage, workshops, exercise areas, and family activity spaces without sacrificing organization or functionality.
Complete your remodel with drywall installation, painting, trim work, upgraded doors, ceiling improvements, and finishing details that give your garage the same polished appearance as the rest of your home.
No matter the size or complexity of your project, our goal is to deliver a garage that is practical, attractive, and built to serve your family for many years.
Explore our complete Garage Remodeling services:
https://maresdow.com/garage-remodeling-3/
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights Inc. proudly provides professional garage remodeling services throughout Berkeley. From historic neighborhoods filled with classic architecture to newer residential communities, we understand the unique character of Berkeley homes and deliver remodeling solutions that complement each property’s style and functionality.
We proudly serve homeowners throughout:
Known for its charming Craftsman homes and established residential streets, North Berkeley is home to many homeowners who often remodel garages to improve storage, create workshops, or modernize aging spaces while preserving the home’s architectural character.
Homes in the Berkeley Hills frequently benefit from customized garage layouts that maximize available space while complementing hillside properties and unique floor plans.
Urban homeowners often prioritize organization, efficient storage, and multi-functional garage spaces that make the most of limited square footage.
With its beautiful older homes and tree-lined streets, Elmwood residents frequently choose garage remodels that blend modern functionality with timeless architectural design.
Garage renovations in Claremont often focus on increasing convenience, improving organization, and creating flexible spaces that support today’s lifestyles.
Whether updating detached garages or improving attached spaces, West Berkeley homeowners appreciate durable materials and efficient layouts designed for everyday use.
Families throughout South Berkeley invest in garage remodeling to increase storage capacity, accommodate hobbies, improve parking functionality, and enhance overall property value.
Homeowners in Thousand Oaks frequently transform garages into highly organized spaces with custom cabinetry, upgraded flooring, and improved lighting.
We also proudly serve homes near local landmarks including the University of California, Berkeley campus, Tilden Regional Park, Berkeley Marina, César Chávez Park, Aquatic Park, and surrounding residential neighborhoods.
No matter where you live in Berkeley, our experienced remodeling team is ready to help you create a garage that adds beauty, functionality, and long-term value to your home.
A well-designed garage can serve far more than simply parking vehicles. Today’s Berkeley homeowners are transforming garages into versatile spaces that enhance everyday living and increase property value. Whether your goal is better organization or creating an entirely new purpose for the space, thoughtful remodeling can unlock your garage’s full potential.
Popular garage remodeling ideas include:
Many Berkeley homeowners also choose garage remodels to improve resale value. Buyers increasingly appreciate organized, functional garages that provide usable space beyond vehicle storage. Investing in thoughtful upgrades today can make your home more attractive while improving your family’s daily comfort.
If you’re ready to reimagine your garage, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights Inc. can help design a solution that reflects your goals and complements your home.
Learn more about our Garage Remodeling services:
https://maresdow.com/garage-remodeling-3/
Ready to get started?
Start your project with Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights Inc. today! We look forward to bringing your vision to life with quality craftsmanship and exceptional service.
Schedule a Free Estimate:
https://maresdow.com/contact/
For more than four decades, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights Inc. has helped homeowners throughout the San Francisco Bay Area transform their properties with quality construction and remodeling services. Since 1983, we’ve built our reputation on expert craftsmanship, honest communication, dependable service, and a commitment to exceeding our clients’ expectations. Whether we’re remodeling a garage, renovating a home, or completing a custom construction project, we approach every job with the same attention to detail and dedication to quality.
Berkeley’s neighborhoods feature a wide variety of architectural styles, from historic Craftsman homes and mid-century residences to modern custom properties. Our extensive experience allows us to tailor every garage remodel to the character of your home while meeting your functional goals. We understand that every homeowner has different priorities, and we take the time to design solutions that fit your lifestyle, budget, and vision.
As a licensed General and Electrical Contractor, our team can manage every aspect of your garage remodeling project. Instead of coordinating multiple contractors, you’ll have one experienced team overseeing the planning, construction, and finishing details, helping your project move smoothly from concept to completion.
Our reputation has been built through decades of satisfied customers and referrals across the Bay Area. Homeowners continue to trust us because we believe quality construction begins with integrity, transparent communication, and craftsmanship that stands the test of time.
Whether you’re modernizing an outdated garage, creating a functional workspace, improving storage, or increasing your home’s value, we’re ready to help you create a space you’ll enjoy for years to come.
Learn more about our professional Garage Remodeling services: https://maresdow.com/garage-remodeling-3/
Start your project with Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights Inc. today! We look forward to bringing your vision to life with quality craftsmanship and exceptional service.
Schedule a Free Estimate: https://maresdow.com/contact/
Many homeowners don’t realize how much potential their garage has until the space begins creating daily frustrations. An outdated or poorly organized garage can make parking difficult, reduce storage capacity, and limit how effectively you use one of the largest areas of your home. Remodeling allows you to improve functionality while creating a cleaner, safer, and more enjoyable space.
You may want to consider remodeling your garage if you notice any of the following:
When boxes, tools, seasonal decorations, sporting equipment, and miscellaneous belongings have taken over your garage, it becomes difficult to find what you need. Custom storage solutions can restore organization while maximizing available space.
If your garage has become too cluttered to accommodate your vehicles, a remodel can redesign the layout with smarter storage systems that free up valuable floor space.
Poor lighting, aging finishes, worn flooring, and deteriorating walls can make your garage feel neglected. Modern lighting, fresh finishes, and upgraded materials dramatically improve both appearance and usability.
As families grow, many homeowners need additional areas for hobbies, exercise, remote work, or recreational activities. Remodeling your garage creates versatile space without expanding your home’s footprint.
Built-in cabinets, overhead storage, wall organizers, and custom shelving help keep tools, equipment, and household items organized while reducing clutter throughout the rest of your home.
Installing an EV charging station during a garage remodel prepares your home for future transportation needs while improving convenience and increasing property appeal.
Many older garages have minimal insulation and significant air leaks. Upgrading insulation and sealing gaps can improve comfort while helping adjacent living spaces become more energy efficient.
A professionally remodeled garage enhances curb appeal, improves functionality, and adds features that many buyers actively seek when purchasing a home.
If any of these situations sound familiar, now may be the perfect time to invest in a professionally designed garage remodel. Our experienced team can evaluate your existing space and recommend practical improvements that fit your goals and budget.
The timeline depends on the size and complexity of the remodel. Cosmetic upgrades may take only a few weeks, while larger renovations involving electrical work, insulation, custom cabinetry, or structural improvements generally require more time. We provide a detailed project schedule before construction begins.
Absolutely. Every garage remodel is designed around your needs. Whether you want a workshop, fitness area, organized storage, hobby room, or flexible multi-purpose space, we create customized solutions that maximize functionality.
In many cases, yes. An attractive, organized, and functional garage is a desirable feature for prospective buyers and can improve both marketability and overall property value.
Yes. We install upgraded lighting, additional outlets, dedicated circuits, electrical improvements, and EV charger readiness to enhance safety, convenience, and everyday usability.
We offer durable flooring solutions designed to withstand daily wear, vehicle traffic, moisture, and stains while providing an attractive finished appearance that's easy to maintain.
Yes. We design custom storage systems that maximize vertical space through shelving, cabinets, overhead storage, and built-in organization while maintaining open floor space.
For many Berkeley homeowners, insulation greatly improves year-round comfort, especially if the garage is used as a workspace, exercise room, or hobby area. It can also improve energy efficiency for attached garages.
Absolutely. Many homeowners combine parking, storage, workshops, fitness equipment, and recreational areas within a single thoughtfully designed garage layout.
With over 40 years of experience serving the Bay Area, we provide personalized service, exceptional craftsmanship, transparent communication, and comprehensive remodeling solutions backed by decades of industry expertise.
The process begins with a free consultation. We'll discuss your goals, evaluate your garage, answer your questions, and provide a detailed estimate tailored to your remodeling project.
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights Inc. proudly provides professional garage remodeling services to homeowners throughout Berkeley and neighboring communities across the East Bay. For more than 40 years, we’ve built lasting relationships by delivering quality craftsmanship, dependable service, and personalized remodeling solutions that meet each homeowner’s unique needs. Whether your home is located in a historic neighborhood, a hillside community, or a newer residential development, our experienced team is committed to creating a garage that complements your property and enhances your everyday living.
In addition to Berkeley, we proudly serve homeowners in:
No matter where your home is located, you can expect the same commitment to exceptional craftsmanship, honest communication, and reliable project management that has earned us the trust of homeowners throughout the Bay Area since 1983.
If you’re unsure whether we serve your neighborhood, simply reach out to our team. We’ll be happy to discuss your project and determine how we can help transform your garage into a more functional, organized, and beautiful space.
Explore our complete Garage Remodeling services: https://maresdow.com/garage-remodeling-3/