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 can completely transform the way you enjoy your home. Whether you’re envisioning a welcoming front porch, an expansive backyard deck for entertaining, or a custom outdoor living area for relaxing with family and friends, professional deck and porch construction adds lasting beauty, functionality, and value to your property.
Danville homeowners place a high value on outdoor living, and for good reason. With the area’s pleasant climate and beautiful residential neighborhoods, outdoor spaces often serve as natural extensions of the home. A thoughtfully designed deck or porch provides the perfect setting for weekend gatherings, outdoor dining, family celebrations, or simply enjoying a quiet evening outdoors. Investing in a professionally built outdoor living space allows you to make the most of your property while improving both comfort and usability.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we have been helping Bay Area homeowners improve their homes since 1983. With more than 40 years of construction experience, we provide expertly crafted deck and porch solutions tailored to your home, lifestyle, and budget. From simple deck installations to complex multi-level outdoor living spaces, our team is committed to delivering exceptional craftsmanship, dependable service, and long-lasting results.
As a trusted Bay Area general contractor, we understand that every home is unique. That’s why we take the time to understand your goals, recommend practical solutions, and build outdoor spaces that complement your property’s architecture while enhancing your everyday living experience. Whether you’re looking to create a peaceful backyard retreat, expand your entertainment space, improve accessibility, or boost your home’s curb appeal, our experienced team can help turn your vision into reality.
Our approach focuses on quality construction, thoughtful planning, and attention to detail. We work closely with homeowners throughout every stage of the project, ensuring the finished result aligns with their expectations while providing the durability and performance needed to withstand years of use. From the initial consultation through project completion, you can count on honest communication, reliable scheduling, and workmanship that reflects our decades-long reputation throughout the Bay Area.
We also understand that outdoor construction projects are significant investments. That’s why we prioritize practical design solutions, clear project planning, and high-quality materials that deliver long-term value. Our goal is to create outdoor spaces that not only look beautiful but also enhance your daily lifestyle and enjoyment of your home.
Ready to build the perfect outdoor space? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today for a free deck installation estimate.
If your current outdoor space feels outdated, lacks functionality, or simply doesn’t meet your family’s needs, investing in professional deck and porch construction can make a significant difference.
Many Danville homeowners are looking for ways to maximize outdoor living throughout the year. A custom deck or porch creates additional usable space for entertaining guests, hosting family gatherings, enjoying morning coffee, or simply relaxing outdoors. It can also increase curb appeal and contribute to the overall value of your property.
A professionally designed outdoor living area offers more than just aesthetic appeal. It provides a versatile space where family and friends can gather, children can play, and homeowners can enjoy the natural beauty of their surroundings. Whether your goal is to host large gatherings or create a quiet outdoor sanctuary, a custom-built deck or porch can be tailored to support your lifestyle and preferences.
Many older decks and porches eventually show signs of wear, including structural deterioration, weather damage, outdated designs, or insufficient space for modern living needs. Replacing or upgrading these structures can improve safety, functionality, and overall enjoyment while giving your home a fresh, updated appearance.
Whether you’re starting from scratch, replacing an aging structure, or expanding an existing outdoor area, our experienced team can help bring your vision to life. We provide comprehensive planning, design collaboration, construction, and finishing services to ensure a seamless experience from start to finish.
Our deck and porch construction services can accommodate a wide variety of projects, including traditional backyard decks, elevated decks for hillside properties, multi-level entertainment spaces, covered porches, wraparound porches, and custom outdoor living environments. We work with homeowners to evaluate their property, discuss their goals, and develop practical solutions that fit both their needs and budget.
As an experienced general contractor serving the Bay Area since 1983, we understand the importance of proper construction techniques, structural integrity, and quality craftsmanship. Every project is completed with careful attention to detail and a commitment to building outdoor spaces that remain beautiful, functional, and durable for years to come.
Learn more about our deck construction expertise here.
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.
Choosing the right contractor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when investing in your home. A deck or porch is more than just an exterior addition—it becomes an extension of your living space. In this place, family gatherings happen, friends come together, and everyday moments are enjoyed outdoors. That’s why homeowners throughout Danville trust Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights for deck and porch construction projects that combine quality craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and long-term value.
For more than 40 years, we have helped Bay Area homeowners improve their properties through professional construction services tailored to their specific goals. Our team understands that every home, property, and homeowner has unique needs. Whether you’re looking to build a simple backyard deck, replace an aging structure, or create a fully customized outdoor living area, we take the time to understand your vision and develop a solution that fits your lifestyle and budget.
Since 1983, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights has proudly served homeowners throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. During that time, we have completed a wide variety of construction and remodeling projects for homes of all sizes, styles, and ages.
Our decades of experience allow us to anticipate potential challenges before they become problems, recommend practical and cost-effective solutions, and deliver projects that stand the test of time. We understand local construction requirements, building practices, and the unique characteristics of Bay Area properties, giving our clients confidence that their project is in capable hands.
Quality workmanship is at the heart of everything we do. We believe a deck or porch should be built not only to look beautiful but also to provide years of safe, reliable use.
From structural framing and support systems to railings, stairs, and finishing details, every aspect of your project receives careful attention. We use proven construction methods and focus on durability, functionality, and appearance to ensure your new outdoor space becomes a lasting asset to your home.
Our philosophy is simple: approach every project with the same care and attention to detail we would expect for our own homes.
No two outdoor living projects are exactly alike. Every property presents different opportunities, challenges, and homeowner goals.
We work closely with you throughout the planning and construction process to understand how you intend to use the space and what features are most important to you. Whether you want a large entertainment area, a quiet retreat for relaxation, a welcoming front porch, or a multi-functional outdoor living space, we customize our approach to help bring your vision to life.
Our goal is to create a finished product that feels like a natural extension of your home while maximizing both comfort and functionality.
As a full-service general contractor, we bring a broad range of construction knowledge and expertise to every project. This allows us to look beyond aesthetics and ensure your deck or porch is designed and built with structural integrity, safety, and long-term performance in mind.
Our experience working on a wide variety of residential construction projects gives us the ability to identify opportunities for improvement, coordinate complex project requirements, and deliver a smooth construction process from start to finish.
Successful projects start with clear communication. We believe homeowners should feel informed and confident throughout every stage of construction.
From the initial consultation to project completion, our team provides straightforward recommendations, realistic expectations, and regular updates. We take pride in being responsive, transparent, and easy to work with, helping make the construction experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Our team provides comprehensive outdoor living construction services designed to meet a wide range of homeowners’ needs. Whether you’re creating a brand-new outdoor space or upgrading an existing structure, we offer solutions that enhance the beauty, functionality, and value of your property.
Every property is different, which is why we specialize in custom deck construction tailored to your home’s architecture, lot configuration, and intended use.
Whether you’re looking for a simple platform deck, an elevated structure, or a large entertainment space, we design and build decks that complement your home while creating a comfortable outdoor environment for family and guests.
For homes with larger yards, sloped terrain, or multiple outdoor activity zones, multi-level decks offer exceptional versatility and visual appeal. These designs create distinct areas for dining, entertaining, lounging, and recreation while helping homeowners maximize available outdoor space. Multi-level configurations can also improve traffic flow and create a more dynamic outdoor living environment.
A professionally designed front porch can dramatically enhance curb appeal while creating a welcoming entrance to your home.
Whether you prefer a traditional porch design or a more modern architectural style, we build porches that add character, charm, and functionality while blending seamlessly with your home’s existing design.
Covered porches allow homeowners to enjoy outdoor living throughout more of the year by providing protection from direct sunlight and changing weather conditions. These spaces can serve as outdoor dining areas, relaxation zones, or gathering places that remain comfortable and inviting regardless of the season.
Older decks may eventually experience structural deterioration, weather-related wear, outdated designs, or safety concerns. When repairs are no longer the most practical solution, a complete deck replacement can restore both functionality and appearance.
Our team can safely remove aging structures and replace them with modern, durable decks designed to meet today’s performance and aesthetic standards.
Many homeowners choose to enhance their decks and porches with additional features that improve usability and enjoyment. We can incorporate:
These features help transform a basic deck or porch into a fully functional outdoor living destination.
In addition to new construction, we can address structural concerns and upgrades that improve the safety, stability, and longevity of existing outdoor structures. Our experience allows us to identify underlying issues and recommend effective solutions that help protect your investment for years to come.
Our team proudly serves homeowners throughout Danville and the surrounding communities. From established neighborhoods to luxury residential developments, we bring the same commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer service to every project.
Known for its mature trees, established homes, and proximity to downtown, Westside Danville offers an ideal setting for custom outdoor living projects. Many homeowners in this area invest in decks and porches that complement the neighborhood’s timeless character while enhancing backyard functionality.
Greenbrook’s spacious lots and family-oriented atmosphere make it a popular location for deck expansions, outdoor entertainment areas, and custom gathering spaces. Homeowners often seek solutions that create comfortable environments for family activities and outdoor entertaining.
Tassajara Ranch features upscale homes and scenic surroundings that lend themselves beautifully to custom outdoor living improvements. Many homeowners in this neighborhood invest in decks and porches designed to maximize views while creating elegant outdoor spaces.
Luxury homes throughout Blackhawk often feature expansive outdoor areas that can be enhanced through custom deck and porch construction. Our projects in this area frequently focus on creating sophisticated outdoor environments that complement the property’s architecture and landscape.
Located near the foothills of Mount Diablo, the Diablo area offers unique opportunities for outdoor living. Larger lots and scenic surroundings make custom decks, porches, and outdoor gathering spaces especially popular among homeowners seeking to take advantage of their property’s natural beauty.
Homes near downtown Danville often benefit from thoughtfully designed porches and outdoor living spaces that blend modern functionality with traditional architectural charm. These projects help homeowners enjoy both improved curb appeal and additional outdoor living space.
We proudly serve homeowners located near:
No matter where your property is located in Danville, you can expect the same dedication to craftsmanship, professionalism, and dependable service.
Every homeowner has different goals for their outdoor space, which is why we customize every project to fit the property’s layout and the homeowner’s vision.
Some of the most popular deck and porch projects we complete include:
These projects help homeowners expand their living space, enhance property aesthetics, and create enjoyable outdoor environments that can be used year-round.
Our goal is to design and build outdoor spaces that enhance both your lifestyle and your home’s long-term value.
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.
For more than four decades, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights has served homeowners throughout the Bay Area with dependable construction services and quality workmanship.
Our longevity reflects our dedication to customer satisfaction, honest communication, and building practices that prioritize long-term performance. We understand that outdoor living projects represent meaningful investments, and we approach every project with the professionalism and attention to detail necessary to deliver lasting value.
Whether you’re building a new deck, replacing an aging porch, or creating a fully customized outdoor retreat, our team has the experience and expertise to guide your project from concept to completion.
Ready to build the perfect outdoor space? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today for a free deck installation estimate.
Proper planning is one of the most important factors in the success of any outdoor construction project. Before beginning construction, homeowners should carefully evaluate several key considerations.
Think about how you plan to use the space daily. Will it primarily be used for entertaining guests, outdoor dining, relaxing with family, or a combination of activities? Understanding your goals will help determine the best design and layout.
The size and configuration of your deck or porch should complement your home’s architecture while providing adequate space for your intended activities. A well-planned layout helps maximize comfort, functionality, and traffic flow.
Different materials offer varying levels of durability, maintenance requirements, appearance, and cost. Selecting the right materials is essential for balancing aesthetics, longevity, and budget considerations.
Consider how people will access and move through the space. Proper placement of stairs, walkways, and transitions between indoor and outdoor areas can significantly improve usability and convenience.
Sunlight patterns can have a major impact on outdoor comfort. Understanding how sun exposure affects your property can help determine whether features such as pergolas, shade structures, or covered areas may be beneficial.
It’s important to think beyond your current needs. A thoughtfully designed deck or porch should be able to accommodate future lifestyle changes, family growth, and evolving outdoor living preferences.
Working with an experienced contractor early in the planning process helps ensure your project is designed efficiently, built correctly, and aligned with both your goals and budget.
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…
In addition to Danville, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights proudly serves homeowners throughout nearby East Bay communities, including Alamo, San Ramon, Dublin, Pleasanton, Walnut Creek, Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, Concord, Livermore, and many other Bay Area cities.
For more than four decades, homeowners across the region have relied on our team for professional construction services backed by experience, integrity, and attention to detail. Whether you’re in a quiet residential neighborhood, on a hillside property, or in a larger estate setting, we bring the same level of care and commitment to every project we undertake.
Our extensive experience throughout the Bay Area allows us to understand the unique characteristics of local homes, neighborhoods, and outdoor living preferences. No matter where your property is located, you can expect responsive communication, dependable workmanship, and a customer-focused approach designed to make your project as smooth and successful as possible.
From custom backyard decks and front porches to complete outdoor living transformations, our team is proud to help homeowners throughout Danville and surrounding communities create outdoor spaces that provide lasting value and enjoyment.
Your outdoor space should be more than just a backyard—it should be a natural extension of your home that enhances the way you live, entertain, and relax. A thoughtfully designed deck or porch can create additional living space, improve curb appeal, and provide a comfortable environment for making memories with family and friends.
Whether you’re planning a brand-new deck, replacing an aging structure, building a welcoming front porch, or creating a fully customized outdoor living area, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights has the experience, knowledge, and craftsmanship to bring your vision to life.
Since 1983, we have proudly served Bay Area homeowners with high-quality construction solutions tailored to their needs. Our commitment to honest communication, personalized service, and exceptional workmanship has helped us build a reputation for delivering projects that stand the test of time.
When you choose our team, you’re partnering with experienced professionals who are dedicated to creating outdoor spaces that combine beauty, functionality, and long-term durability. From the initial consultation through final construction, we work closely with you to ensure the finished project exceeds your expectations.
Ready to build the perfect outdoor space? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today for a free deck installation estimate.
When homeowners begin planning a deck or porch project, they often have questions about materials, timelines, maintenance, and overall value. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive from homeowners throughout Alameda and the Bay Area.
If you have additional questions about your specific project, the team at Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights is always available to provide personalized guidance. You can also learn more about our professional Deck & Porch Construction services and explore the many ways we help homeowners create beautiful, functional outdoor living spaces.
Project timelines can vary depending on the size of the deck or porch, the complexity of the design, site conditions, and material selection. Smaller projects may be completed relatively quickly, while larger custom decks or multi-level outdoor living spaces may require additional time for planning and construction.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we provide a clear project timeline before work begins and keep homeowners informed throughout every stage of the process. Our goal is to complete your project efficiently while maintaining the highest standards of craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Yes. Custom deck construction is one of our specialties. We understand that every property and homeowner has unique goals, which is why we create deck solutions tailored to your home's architecture, outdoor space, lifestyle needs, and budget.
Whether you're interested in a simple backyard deck, a large entertainment area, a multi-level design, or a deck with integrated features such as seating and lighting, we can help bring your vision to life. Our team works closely with you throughout the planning and design process to create a finished product that complements your property and enhances your outdoor living experience.
Absolutely. Covered porches are an excellent way to extend the usability of your outdoor space while protecting from sun exposure and changing weather conditions.
A covered porch can serve as a comfortable area for relaxing, dining, entertaining guests, or enjoying your outdoor environment throughout more of the year. We design covered porch solutions that blend seamlessly with your home's architectural style while providing both functionality and visual appeal.
Yes. If your existing deck is showing signs of deterioration, structural wear, water damage, or simply no longer meets your needs, we can safely remove and replace it with a modern, durable structure.
Many homeowners choose deck replacement projects to improve safety, increase functionality, update the appearance of their outdoor space, and incorporate features that better support their current lifestyle. Our team can evaluate the condition of your existing deck and recommend the most practical solution for your property.
Yes. Many Bay Area homes are built on properties with varying elevations and unique site conditions. We have extensive experience designing and constructing decks for sloped lots, hillside properties, and other challenging environments.
Elevated decks, multi-level configurations, and custom structural solutions can help homeowners maximize usable outdoor space while taking advantage of scenic views and natural surroundings. Our experience allows us to develop practical designs that balance aesthetics, functionality, and structural integrity.
A professionally built deck or porch can be a valuable investment that enhances both your property's appeal and functionality. Outdoor living spaces continue to be highly desirable among homeowners because they provide additional usable square footage without the cost of a traditional home addition.
While every property and market is different, many homeowners find that a well-designed deck improves curb appeal, increases enjoyment of their home, and contributes positively to overall property value. Beyond financial considerations, a custom outdoor living space often delivers years of enjoyment for family gatherings, entertaining, and relaxation.
Yes. Many homeowners choose to personalize their outdoor space with custom features that improve comfort, functionality, and appearance.
Popular enhancements include:
These additions can transform a basic deck into a complete outdoor living environment designed around your specific needs and preferences.
The best material for your project depends on several factors, including your design goals, maintenance preferences, budget, and desired appearance.
During the planning process, we discuss available options and provide recommendations based on your specific project requirements. We help homeowners balance durability, aesthetics, maintenance expectations, and long-term value to select materials that best fit their outdoor living goals.
Our focus is always on helping you make informed decisions that support both the performance and longevity of your new deck or porch.
Yes. We provide comprehensive deck and porch construction services from initial planning through project completion.
Our process typically includes:
By managing the entire process, we help ensure consistency, quality control, and a smoother overall experience for homeowners.
Choosing the right contractor can make a significant difference in the success of your project. Homeowners throughout the Bay Area continue to choose Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights because of our commitment to quality craftsmanship, personalized service, and long-term customer satisfaction.
With over 40 years of Bay Area construction experience, we bring extensive knowledge, proven building practices, and a dedication to excellence to every project we undertake. Our team takes pride in delivering outdoor living spaces that are beautiful, durable, and designed to enhance your lifestyle for years to come.