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…
As Bay Area homeowners place increasing value on outdoor living and functional, beautiful backyard spaces, the demand for reliable deck installation and outdoor construction has never been greater. Whether adding a cozy backyard deck, upgrading to a multi-level or rooftop deck, or creating a full outdoor living area, more homeowners are choosing to enhance what they already love. Working with an experienced deck installation team ensures every project blends seamlessly with your home’s style while providing safety, durability, and comfort for years to come.
Outdoor improvements are no longer just short-term projects. Homeowners are investing in long-term enjoyment, strengthening connections with family and friends, and creating spaces that fit their evolving lifestyle needs. Achieving that vision requires careful planning, expert craftsmanship, and a contractor who understands both practical and aesthetic goals. With the right team, your deck investment can deliver lasting enjoyment and significant value to your property.
With more than 40 years of experience, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights is the trusted Bay Area general contractor for decks and outdoor construction projects of every size. We’ve worked on homes of all ages and styles, providing quality-driven deck installation, repairs, and custom outdoor upgrades tailored to your goals. Our focus is on delivering durable, efficient, and beautifully executed results that stand the test of time.
As lifestyles evolve, so do the needs of your outdoor space. You may want additional living space for entertaining, a quiet retreat, improved functionality, or a high-end deck that elevates your home’s appearance. No matter the challenge, our team collaborates closely with you to transform your ideas into a complete deck installation plan that fits your budget and priorities. From multi-level designs to integrated seating, pergolas, and lighting, we provide smart, practical solutions that enhance both function and enjoyment.
As your dedicated Bay Area deck installation experts, we strive to make every project smooth, efficient, and rewarding. It begins with understanding your vision, developing a clear and cost-effective strategy, and delivering high-quality work that ensures your outdoor space remains safe, beautiful, and tailored to your lifestyle. Discover what’s possible with Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights and bring your next deck project to life with confidence.
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!
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…
Yes. We use only high-quality materials and construction methods designed to withstand the Bay Area’s unique weather conditions, including sun exposure, rain, humidity, and coastal environments. Whether you choose natural wood, composite, or other premium materials, our decks are built to resist warping, rotting, and fading. Proper installation and finishing techniques ensure your deck remains safe, durable, and visually stunning for years to come.
Yes. Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights provides comprehensive deck remodeling and repair services. Whether your deck has structural issues, damaged materials, or outdated design elements, we can restore it to full functionality, update the materials, or completely redesign the space. Our team ensures that every repair or remodel blends seamlessly with your existing outdoor space while enhancing safety, comfort, and style.