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…
Your outdoor space should be more than just an unused backyard or a simple entryway, and it should be a natural extension of your home. A professionally designed deck or porch creates additional living space, enhances curb appeal, and provides the perfect setting for relaxing, entertaining, and spending time with family and friends. Whether you’re dreaming of a spacious backyard deck for weekend gatherings, a charming front porch that adds character to your home, or a custom outdoor living area tailored to your lifestyle, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights has the expertise to bring your vision to life.
For over 40 years, homeowners throughout the Bay Area have trusted Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights to deliver high-quality construction projects built with integrity, craftsmanship, and attention to detail. As a licensed General Contractor and Electrical Contractor, our team combines decades of hands-on experience with modern construction techniques to create outdoor spaces that are both beautiful and built to last. We understand that every property is unique, which is why we take a personalized approach to every deck and porch project, ensuring the final result complements your home’s architecture while meeting your practical needs and long-term goals.
Richmond’s diverse neighborhoods, scenic waterfront areas, and mild Bay Area climate make outdoor living more enjoyable than ever. From Point Richmond and Marina Bay to East Richmond Heights and Hilltop, homeowners are increasingly investing in outdoor spaces that provide year-round enjoyment and improve the overall functionality of their properties. A well-designed deck or porch can create a comfortable retreat, increase usable square footage, and make your home a more inviting place to gather.
Whether you’re starting with a blank slate or replacing an aging structure, our experienced builders can help guide you through every stage of the process, from design and planning to construction and completion. Learn more about our professional Deck & Porch Construction services and see how we can transform your outdoor space into something truly exceptional.
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.
Choosing the right contractor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when investing in a new deck or porch. A well-built outdoor structure should not only look beautiful on day one but continue providing safety, comfort, and value for decades. That’s why Richmond homeowners turn to experienced professionals who understand the importance of quality materials, sound construction practices, and customized design solutions.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we believe every successful project begins with listening. Before recommending designs, materials, or layouts, we take the time to understand how you plan to use your outdoor space. Perhaps you want a larger area for entertaining guests, a peaceful place to enjoy your morning coffee, a safer and more accessible entryway, or a complete outdoor living environment that brings your family together. Whatever your goals may be, our team develops a construction plan tailored specifically to your property and vision.
Unlike cookie-cutter deck builders, we create custom solutions designed around your home, lifestyle, and budget. Our extensive construction experience allows us to handle everything from straightforward deck installations to highly customized outdoor living projects that incorporate multiple levels, built-in features, shade structures, and architectural details. We understand how to maximize available space while ensuring the finished project complements the style and character of your home.
Richmond homeowners often face unique considerations when planning outdoor projects, including sloped terrain, waterfront exposure, aging structures, and evolving family needs. With over four decades of Bay Area construction experience, our team understands these challenges and provides practical solutions designed to deliver long-term performance and lasting beauty.
If you’re considering a new deck, porch, or outdoor living project, explore our full range of Deck & Porch Construction services and see why homeowners throughout the Bay Area continue to trust our experienced team.
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 or porch, homeowners want more than just a contractor, and they want a trusted partner who understands their vision, respects their property, and delivers exceptional results that stand the test of time. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we’ve spent more than 40 years building that trust throughout Richmond and the greater Bay Area by consistently providing honest service, quality craftsmanship, and dependable construction solutions.
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 experienced team can help create the perfect outdoor living space for your Richmond home.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we understand that every homeowner has a unique vision for their outdoor space. Whether you’re looking to create a quiet retreat for relaxation, a gathering place for family and friends, or a stunning outdoor entertainment area, our team delivers custom deck and porch construction solutions designed around your goals. With more than 40 years of experience serving Bay Area homeowners, we combine expert craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and durable materials to build outdoor spaces that enhance both your lifestyle and your property’s value.
Whether you’re planning a simple porch upgrade or a fully customized outdoor living environment, our team is ready to help you bring your vision to life. Learn more about our professional Deck & Porch Construction services and see how we can create an outdoor space that enhances the beauty, functionality, and value of your Richmond home.
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.
Richmond is one of the Bay Area’s most diverse and dynamic communities, offering everything from historic waterfront neighborhoods and hillside homes to modern developments and established residential areas. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we understand that every neighborhood has its own character, architectural styles, and outdoor living opportunities. That’s why we provide customized deck and porch construction solutions designed to complement your property while maximizing functionality, comfort, and long-term value.
No matter where you’re located in Richmond, our goal remains the same: to build an outdoor space that enhances your home, fits your lifestyle, and delivers lasting value. Learn more about our professional Deck & Porch Construction services and see how our experienced team can help transform your property.
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.
A deck or porch should enhance your home’s beauty, functionality, and value, not create safety concerns or limit how you enjoy your outdoor space. Over time, exposure to Richmond’s coastal influences, seasonal weather changes, aging materials, and evolving homeowner needs can cause outdoor structures to deteriorate or become less functional. Fortunately, many of these issues can be addressed through professional repairs, upgrades, or complete reconstruction.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we help homeowners throughout Richmond identify and solve deck and porch problems before they become larger, more expensive issues. With over 40 years of construction experience, our team understands how to evaluate existing structures and recommend practical, long-lasting solutions that improve safety, appearance, and performance.
Whether you’re dealing with structural deterioration, planning a larger outdoor entertainment area, or simply looking to modernize an aging deck, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights has the expertise to help. Learn more about our professional Deck & Porch Construction services and see how we can create an outdoor space that’s safe, beautiful, and built to last.
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. You want a contractor who understands not only how to build a beautiful outdoor space, but also how to design and construct it to withstand years of use while complementing your home’s architecture and increasing its long-term value. For more than four decades, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights has been helping Bay Area homeowners turn outdoor living ideas into reality through expert craftsmanship, dependable service, and a commitment to quality that never goes out of style.
Since 1983, our team has worked on homes of all ages, sizes, and architectural styles throughout Richmond and the surrounding East Bay. From historic homes in Point Richmond to contemporary properties in Marina Bay and custom residences in East Richmond Heights, we’ve built a reputation for delivering personalized construction solutions that meet the unique needs of every homeowner. Our extensive experience allows us to anticipate challenges, recommend practical solutions, and execute projects efficiently while maintaining the highest standards of workmanship.
As a licensed General Contractor and Electrical Contractor, we bring a level of expertise that many contractors simply cannot match. Every deck and porch project benefits from our comprehensive understanding of structural integrity, building codes, construction best practices, and thoughtful design. Whether you’re planning a simple backyard deck, a welcoming front porch, or a custom outdoor living environment complete with multiple levels and integrated features, our team has the knowledge and resources to bring your vision to life.
We understand that a deck or porch is much more than an exterior improvement. It’s where families gather for barbecues, where friends connect during celebrations, and where homeowners relax after a long day. That’s why we take the time to understand your goals and create a space that reflects your lifestyle while adding beauty and functionality to your property.
Whether you’re looking to build a brand-new outdoor living area, replace an aging deck, or create a custom porch that enhances your home’s curb appeal, our experienced team is ready to help. Learn more about our professional Deck & Porch Construction services and discover why homeowners throughout Richmond and the Bay Area have trusted Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights for over 40 years.
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 is an exciting opportunity to enhance your home, expand your living space, and create an outdoor environment that fits your lifestyle. The most successful projects start long before construction begins. Taking the time to carefully plan your goals, budget, and design preferences can help ensure your investment delivers lasting value, beauty, and functionality.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we’ve spent more than 40 years helping Bay Area homeowners transform their outdoor spaces. Through that experience, we’ve found that homeowners who begin with a clear vision and work with an experienced contractor from the start often enjoy smoother projects and better long-term 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.
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…
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights proudly provides expert deck and porch construction services not only in Richmond, CA, but throughout the greater East Bay and surrounding communities. With over 40 years of hands-on experience in residential construction, we understand the unique architectural styles, terrain conditions, and coastal climate considerations that shape outdoor living projects across this region. Whether you’re located near the waterfront, in the hills, or in a quiet residential neighborhood, we design and build outdoor spaces that feel natural, functional, and built to last.
Richmond is a diverse and historic city with a wide range of neighborhoods, each offering its own opportunities for custom outdoor living. In Point Richmond, homeowners often seek elegant front porches and classic wood decks that complement the area’s historic charm and walkable village feel. In Marina Bay, we frequently design modern, low-maintenance deck systems that take advantage of waterfront views and coastal breezes, creating seamless indoor-outdoor living experiences.
In neighborhoods like Richmond Annex and North & East, families often look to expand their usable living space with functional backyard decks, patio-style porches, and entertainment-ready outdoor areas. These projects are ideal for gatherings, barbecues, and creating safe, comfortable spaces for everyday living. In East Richmond Heights and the Hilltop District, elevated and multi-level deck designs are especially popular, helping homeowners maximize hillside views while creating structured outdoor zones for dining, lounging, and entertaining.
Beyond Richmond, our team regularly serves nearby East Bay cities, including Berkeley, El Cerrito, Pinole, Hercules, San Pablo, Oakland, and surrounding communities. No matter the location, our approach remains the same: deliver high-quality craftsmanship, clear communication, and outdoor structures built for long-term performance.
To learn more about our full range of outdoor building solutions, visit our Deck & Porch Construction services page. If you’re ready to upgrade your outdoor space with a custom deck or porch built by experienced Bay Area professionals, we’re here to help.
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 work for you every single day, whether that means a quiet morning on the porch, weekend gatherings on the deck, or a safe and welcoming front entry that adds character to your home. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we help Richmond homeowners turn underused or outdated outdoor areas into fully functional, beautifully built extensions of their living space.
Whether you’re planning a brand-new outdoor living area or replacing an aging structure that no longer meets your needs, we provide full-service deck and porch solutions tailored to your goals. Our work includes everything from foundational framing and structural engineering to custom railings, stairs, lighting integration, and seamless architectural design that complements your home.
Homeowners throughout Richmond choose Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights because we prioritize clear communication, dependable timelines, and craftsmanship that stands the test of time. Every project is handled with care, from initial planning and material selection to final construction and finishing details, so you always know what to expect and can feel confident in the result.
If you’re ready to upgrade your outdoor living space with a trusted local contractor, explore our full range of Deck & Porch Construction services and see how we can bring your vision to life.
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.
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 Alamo 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.
Timelines vary depending on the size of the project, design complexity, site conditions, and material availability, but most deck and porch construction projects take anywhere from one to several weeks to complete. Simpler backyard decks may be finished more quickly, while larger multi-level or custom-designed structures require additional planning and construction time. Weather and material selection can also affect the overall schedule. Our team focuses on efficient project management while ensuring every detail is completed to the highest standards of quality, safety, and craftsmanship.
Richmond’s coastal-influenced climate makes both wood and composite materials viable options, but each has its advantages. Wood offers a natural, timeless look and can be more cost-effective upfront, while composite decking provides excellent durability, low maintenance, and resistance to moisture and wear. We help homeowners compare options based on budget, design goals, and long-term maintenance preferences.
Yes. Every project we build is tailored to the homeowner’s vision and property layout. Whether you're looking for a simple backyard deck or a fully customized outdoor living space with multiple levels, built-in seating, lighting, and shade structures, we design and construct solutions that fit your lifestyle and enhance your home’s architecture.
Costs vary based on size, materials, design complexity, and site conditions. A basic wood deck will generally cost less than a large multi-level composite structure with custom features. During your consultation, we provide a detailed, transparent estimate tailored to your specific project so you understand all costs upfront with no surprises.
Absolutely. Many homeowners come to us when their existing deck is aging, unsafe, or no longer fits their needs. We can assess the structure, determine whether repair or full replacement is the best option, and design a new deck or porch that improves safety, appearance, and functionality.
Front porches with covered seating areas, modern open-air designs, and wraparound porches are all popular in Richmond. Many homeowners also choose porches that enhance curb appeal while providing shade and protection from the elements. We customize each design to match your home’s style and the way you plan to use the space.
Yes. We frequently integrate custom features such as built-in benches, railings, stair systems, and outdoor lighting. These enhancements improve safety, usability, and ambiance, making your deck or porch more functional and enjoyable throughout the day and evening.
Most properties can accommodate some form of deck or porch, but factors like slope, soil conditions, existing structures, and local regulations will influence design options. We evaluate your property during the consultation and recommend solutions that maximize space while maintaining structural integrity and safety.
Far far away, behind the word mountains, far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia, there live the blind texts. Separated they live in Bookmarksgrove right at the coast
Getting started is simple. Reach out to schedule a consultation where we’ll discuss your goals, review your property, and provide expert recommendations. From there, we develop a clear plan and detailed estimate to move your project forward with confidence.