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 backyard has the potential to become one of the most enjoyable and valuable spaces in your home. Whether you envision a welcoming front porch, an expansive entertainment deck, or a peaceful outdoor retreat surrounded by Berkeley’s natural beauty, investing in professional deck and porch construction can dramatically transform the way you live and enjoy your property.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we believe your outdoor space should feel like a seamless extension of your home. For over 40 years, we’ve helped Bay Area homeowners create custom outdoor living environments that blend functionality, comfort, and exceptional craftsmanship. From simple deck additions to sophisticated multi-level outdoor entertainment spaces, our team designs and builds structures that complement your home’s architecture while standing up to California’s unique climate and terrain.
Today’s homeowners are placing greater emphasis on outdoor living than ever before, turning decks and porches into spaces for entertaining, dining, relaxation, and everyday living. Multi-functional outdoor spaces featuring built-in seating, integrated lighting, and dedicated areas for gathering continue to grow in popularity as homeowners seek to maximize their property’s usability and long-term value. A professionally designed deck can also provide a significant return on investment while creating additional functional living space and enhancing curb appeal.
As a licensed General and Electrical Contractor, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights provides complete deck and porch construction solutions, including custom designs, elevated decks, multi-level structures, integrated lighting, pergolas, and outdoor living enhancements that fit your family’s lifestyle and long-term goals. Learn more about our professional Deck & Porch Construction Services.
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.
Building a deck or porch is far more than simply adding lumber and railings to your property. It is an opportunity to create a custom outdoor living environment that enhances your lifestyle, improves functionality, and adds lasting value to your home.
Achieving those results requires thoughtful planning, expert craftsmanship, and a contractor with extensive experience designing and constructing outdoor spaces that are both beautiful and structurally sound. Poorly designed decks can lead to safety issues, premature deterioration, and costly repairs, while professionally built structures provide years of enjoyment and dependable performance. Proper framing, weather-resistant materials, and code-compliant construction are essential for long-term durability and safety.
Whether you’re planning a cozy front porch, a sprawling backyard entertainment deck, or a multi-level outdoor living space, our team manages every phase of the project, from planning and design to construction and finishing details, with the honesty, responsiveness, and attention to detail that have defined our company since 1983.
Our extensive experience working on homes of all ages and architectural styles throughout the Bay Area allows us to deliver deck and porch solutions that are not only visually impressive but also engineered for long-term performance and everyday enjoyment. Outdoor spaces have increasingly become extensions of the home itself, with homeowners prioritizing versatile, comfortable environments designed for year-round use and meaningful connection with family and friends.
If you’re ready to transform your property with a custom outdoor living space, our team is here to help you every step of the way. Explore our complete Deck Installation Services.
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, choosing the right contractor is just as important as selecting the design itself. Your outdoor living space should be beautiful, structurally sound, and built to provide years of enjoyment. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we’ve spent more than four decades helping Bay Area homeowners transform their properties with high-quality construction, thoughtful design, and dependable service.
Experience matters when it comes to outdoor construction. With over 40 years of hands-on construction expertise, our team has completed projects on homes of all ages, sizes, and architectural styles throughout Berkeley and the East Bay. Our decades of local experience allow us to anticipate challenges before construction begins, creating efficient solutions that save time, protect your investment, and deliver long-lasting results.
No two homeowners use their outdoor spaces in the same way. Some want an inviting area for hosting family gatherings and barbecues. Others envision a peaceful retreat for morning coffee, reading, or enjoying Berkeley’s mild climate.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, quality and service come first. We believe every project deserves the same care and attention to detail that we would give our own homes. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Every project is carefully planned and constructed to provide lasting value and years of enjoyment.
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights is uniquely qualified to manage complex outdoor construction projects thanks to our broad range of construction expertise and decades of hands-on experience. Having multiple areas of expertise under one roof allows us to deliver greater efficiency, improved communication, and a more seamless construction experience from start to finish. Our integrated approach helps ensure every aspect of your outdoor living project is carefully coordinated, resulting in high-quality craftsmanship and lasting value.
Our company was built on integrity, transparency, and lasting relationships. We understand that construction projects can feel overwhelming, which is why we prioritize clear communication and dependable service at every stage of your project.
For over four decades, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights has remained committed to helping homeowners improve their properties through expert construction and thoughtful design. Our hands-on leadership, extensive experience, and dedication to quality have made us a trusted partner for outdoor living projects throughout Berkeley and the entire Bay Area.
Whether you’re envisioning a welcoming front porch, a custom backyard retreat, or a multi-level entertainment space that takes advantage of Berkeley’s scenic views, our team has the knowledge and craftsmanship to 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.
Your outdoor space should be just as comfortable, functional, and inviting as the inside of your home. Today’s homeowners are investing in outdoor living areas that serve as extensions of their homes, with multi-functional spaces designed for dining, entertaining, relaxation, and everyday living. Industry trends show growing demand for custom decks, front porches, integrated outdoor features, and thoughtfully designed outdoor “rooms” that add both lifestyle value and curb appeal. Learn more about our professional Deck & Porch Construction Services.
A custom-built deck creates valuable outdoor living space that can be used year-round for entertaining, family gatherings, and relaxation. We design and build decks that complement your home’s architectural style while maximizing functionality and comfort. Every project begins with understanding how you want to use your outdoor space, so we can create a deck that perfectly fits your lifestyle.
A beautifully designed front porch creates an inviting entrance while significantly improving curb appeal and functionality. Front-of-home outdoor spaces have become increasingly popular among homeowners seeking areas for relaxation, connection, and everyday enjoyment. Whether your home is a historic Berkeley property or a modern residence, we build porches that blend seamlessly with your home’s character while adding long-term value.
Many Berkeley properties feature sloped lots and hillside settings that require creative design solutions. Multi-level decks have become one of the fastest-growing outdoor living trends because they create purposeful spaces for dining, lounging, and entertaining while maximizing challenging terrain. By following your property’s natural contours, multi-level decks create visually stunning and highly functional outdoor environments.
Berkeley’s scenic hillside neighborhoods offer incredible views that deserve to be enjoyed. Our team has extensive experience designing and constructing elevated decks that safely maximize outdoor living opportunities while embracing the area’s beautiful surroundings. Our expertise allows us to deliver outdoor spaces that are both visually impressive and structurally sound.
Modern outdoor spaces are no longer simply decks and porches, they’re fully functional outdoor living rooms. Homeowners increasingly want resort-inspired spaces with multiple activity zones and custom features that support everyday living and entertaining. We design every feature to work together cohesively, creating an outdoor environment that feels like a natural extension of your home.
As a full-service general contractor, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights can seamlessly integrate your deck or porch project with other home improvement services. This comprehensive approach allows us to create outdoor living environments that are functional, beautiful, and built to stand the test of time.
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.
For more inspiration and information about our custom outdoor living solutions, visit our Deck Installation Services page.
Berkeley is one of the Bay Area’s most architecturally diverse and naturally beautiful communities. From historic Craftsman homes and charming bungalows to hillside residences with panoramic Bay views, each neighborhood offers unique opportunities for creating exceptional outdoor living spaces. Whether you’re envisioning a cozy front porch, an expansive entertainment deck, or a multi-level outdoor retreat, our team proudly serves homeowners throughout Berkeley and its surrounding neighborhoods.
North Berkeley is known for its quiet residential streets, mature trees, charming architecture, and proximity to local parks and shopping districts. The neighborhood’s character-rich homes are ideal candidates for custom decks and inviting front porches that preserve historic charm while adding modern functionality. Many properties also benefit from backyard entertainment spaces that create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living.
The Berkeley Hills offer some of the most spectacular views in the Bay Area, with homes perched along winding streets overlooking the San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. These unique hillside properties often require specialized deck construction solutions, including elevated and multi-level deck systems designed to maximize views while accommodating sloped terrain. Our extensive experience with complex outdoor construction projects makes us uniquely qualified to create safe, beautiful outdoor spaces in these challenging environments.
One of Berkeley’s most beloved neighborhoods, Elmwood is celebrated for its tree-lined streets, historic Craftsman homes, and vibrant College Avenue district filled with local shops and cafés. Many homeowners in Elmwood seek outdoor improvements that complement their home’s architectural character while creating functional gathering spaces for family and friends. Front porches, intimate backyard decks, and custom outdoor living areas are particularly popular in this charming residential community.
Claremont is renowned for its elegant homes, tree-lined streets, and iconic Claremont Resort area. The neighborhood features beautiful Craftsman, Tudor, and Mediterranean-style homes, many situated to capture sweeping Bay views. These exceptional properties frequently benefit from thoughtfully designed outdoor living spaces that enhance both functionality and aesthetics. Our team regularly designs custom decks, entertainment areas, and elevated outdoor structures that complement the grandeur and natural beauty of Claremont homes.
Named for its dramatic rock formations and picturesque setting at the base of the Berkeley Hills, Thousand Oaks is one of Berkeley’s most distinctive residential neighborhoods. The area features winding streets, mature landscaping, and beautifully preserved early twentieth-century homes. Homeowners here often invest in decks and porches that embrace the neighborhood’s natural surroundings while creating comfortable spaces for relaxation and entertaining.
Downtown Berkeley offers a vibrant urban environment where homeowners frequently seek creative solutions for maximizing outdoor living space. Compact decks, rooftop gathering areas, and custom porches can provide valuable extensions of living space while enhancing property appeal and functionality. The area’s proximity to cultural attractions and local amenities makes outdoor entertainment areas especially desirable.
Homes surrounding the University of California, Berkeley often blend historic character with modern lifestyle needs. Homeowners in this area frequently seek custom deck and porch solutions that create comfortable gathering spaces while respecting the architectural heritage of their properties. Outdoor living areas have become increasingly important for entertaining, studying, and enjoying Berkeley’s mild climate year-round.
Properties near Tilden Regional Park and Grizzly Peak enjoy immediate access to some of the East Bay’s most stunning natural landscapes. These homes often feature exceptional opportunities for decks and porches that capitalize on scenic views and create tranquil outdoor retreats. Elevated decks, wraparound porches, and custom viewing areas are popular choices for homeowners seeking to embrace the area’s natural beauty.
To learn more about our custom outdoor living solutions, visit our Deck & Porch Construction Services page.
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.
Berkeley homeowners love spending time outdoors, but the area’s coastal influences, changing weather conditions, mature landscaping, and varied terrain can take a toll on decks and porches over time. From aging wood and moisture damage to structural issues caused by hillside construction, outdoor living spaces often require expert repairs, upgrades, or complete reconstruction to remain safe, functional, and visually appealing.
Our team specializes in transforming underused spaces into custom outdoor living areas that maximize functionality while complementing your home’s architecture and surrounding landscape. Whether you envision a peaceful retreat, an entertainment destination, or a welcoming front porch, we can help bring your ideas to life.
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 been a trusted name in Berkeley and throughout the Bay Area for high-quality deck and porch construction. Since 1983, our team has worked on homes of every style and age, from classic Berkeley Craftsman residences to modern hillside properties, delivering outdoor living spaces that are built with precision, care, and long-term durability in mind. Our longevity in the industry is a reflection of our consistent craftsmanship, honest communication, and commitment to doing every job right the first time.
What sets our work apart is not just experience, but the depth of expertise behind every project. As a longstanding Bay Area general contractor, we understand the unique structural and environmental demands that come with building outdoor spaces in Berkeley’s diverse terrain. From sloped lots in the Berkeley Hills to compact urban backyards near downtown, we design and build decks and porches that are engineered for stability, safety, and everyday use while enhancing the architectural character of the home. Every project is carefully planned to ensure it meets local building standards while also aligning with the homeowner’s vision for comfort, style, and functionality.
Our reputation has been built on relationships, not transactions. Much of our work comes from repeat clients and referrals, a reflection of the trust we’ve earned through decades of dependable service. Homeowners continue to choose us because we approach every project with the same philosophy: treat every home as if it were our own, and never compromise on quality. That means clear communication, transparent planning, and construction methods designed to stand the test of time in California’s climate.
Whether you are upgrading an existing deck, adding a custom porch, or planning a full outdoor living transformation, our team brings the experience and insight needed to guide your project from concept to completion. To learn more about our craftsmanship and full range of outdoor building solutions, visit our Deck & Porch Construction Services.
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.
If you’re considering adding or upgrading your outdoor living space, taking the right steps early can help ensure a successful project.
Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality. Schedule a free estimate.
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 is proud to provide expert deck and porch construction services not only in Berkeley, but throughout the greater East Bay and San Francisco Bay Area. With more than 40 years of hands-on experience, we understand the architectural diversity, terrain challenges, and unique property characteristics that vary from city to city, allowing us to deliver outdoor living spaces that are both beautifully designed and built for long-term performance.
Whether you live in a historic Berkeley neighborhood, a hillside property with Bay views, or a quiet residential community nearby, our team brings the same level of craftsmanship, communication, and dependable service to every project. We specialize in creating custom decks and porches that complement each home’s structure while maximizing usable outdoor space, comfort, and property value.
Our service area includes Berkeley and surrounding communities such as:
Albany – Ideal for compact, thoughtfully designed decks that enhance smaller residential lots and urban living spaces.
El Cerrito – We build durable outdoor structures designed for family living and year-round enjoyment.
Oakland – From classic homes to modern builds, we design decks that match Oakland’s diverse architectural styles.
Piedmont – High-end custom porch and deck solutions tailored for elegant homes and refined outdoor living.
Richmond – Weather-resistant deck construction built for durability, functionality, and long-term value.
Alameda – Coastal-influenced designs that take advantage of breezes and outdoor entertaining opportunities.
Orinda and Lafayette – Elevated and multi-level decks designed for hillside properties and scenic views.
Moraga and Walnut Creek – Spacious outdoor living areas perfect for entertaining, relaxing, and family gatherings.
San Francisco – Urban deck and porch solutions designed for limited space, rooftop access, and maximum efficiency.
Each location presents unique design opportunities and structural considerations, from sloped lots in the hills to compact urban properties that require creative space optimization. Our team evaluates each site carefully to ensure your deck or porch is designed for safety, durability, and seamless integration with your home’s existing architecture.
A well-designed deck or porch is one of the most effective ways to transform your Berkeley home into a more functional, beautiful, and enjoyable living space. Whether you’re looking to create a private outdoor retreat, expand your entertaining space, or enhance your home’s curb appeal, investing in professional deck and porch construction delivers long-term value and everyday livability.
Outdoor living continues to be one of the most desirable home improvements for Bay Area homeowners. A properly built deck not only extends your usable living space but also strengthens the connection between indoor comfort and outdoor enjoyment, especially in a climate like Berkeley, where year-round outdoor living is part of the lifestyle. Studies consistently show that quality deck additions can recover a significant portion of their cost at resale while increasing buyer interest and overall property appeal.
We also integrate modern outdoor features that enhance both function and enjoyment, including built-in seating, lighting, railings, and weather-resistant materials that perform well in Berkeley’s changing conditions. The result is a space that feels intentional, usable, and seamlessly connected to your home. To explore our full range of outdoor building solutions, visit our Deck & Porch Construction services page.
When you’re ready to improve your outdoor living space, our team is here to guide you from concept to completion with honest recommendations and dependable execution.
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.
Before starting a deck or porch project, it's important to consider how you plan to use the space, your property's layout, and the overall design you want to achieve. Factors such as yard size, terrain, desired features, and long-term maintenance expectations can all influence the final design. Working with an experienced contractor can help ensure your outdoor space is both functional and visually appealing.
Timelines vary depending on design complexity, site conditions, material selection, and the scope of the project. Most standard deck projects take several weeks from design approval to completion, while larger multi-level or hillside structures may require additional time due to their complexity.
Berkeley’s coastal influence means moisture resistance and durability are key. Popular materials include pressure-treated lumber, redwood, cedar, and composite decking. Each option offers different benefits in terms of maintenance, longevity, and appearance. We help homeowners select materials that balance aesthetics, performance, and budget.
Yes. Many Berkeley homes are built on sloped terrain, especially in neighborhoods like the Berkeley Hills. We specialize in elevated deck systems and multi-level designs that safely adapt to uneven ground while maximizing usable outdoor space and views.
A deck is typically an open, elevated outdoor structure, often located in the backyard or side yard. A porch is usually attached to the front or entry of a home and may be covered or partially enclosed. Both improve outdoor living, but porches tend to focus on curb appeal while decks are more entertainment-oriented.
Maintenance depends on materials and exposure. Wood decks typically require periodic sealing or staining to help protect against weather-related wear, while composite materials generally require less upkeep. Regular evaluations can help identify minor issues before they become larger problems.
Yes. We can incorporate lighting, outlets, and other outdoor features directly into your deck or porch design. Popular additions include pathway lighting, stair lighting, accent lighting, and outdoor fixtures that improve both usability and ambiance.
Older decks often experience wood rot, loose railings, unstable footings, and water damage due to prolonged exposure to moisture. In some cases, aging materials and structural wear may make repairs impractical, making replacement the better long-term solution.
Not always. Some decks can be repaired or reinforced if the underlying structure remains in good condition. If there is significant rot, movement, or foundation damage, replacement is often the safer and more cost-effective option.
installation to achieve long-lasting results. Mistakes in framing, support systems, or material selection can affect durability, appearance, and overall performance. An experienced contractor can help ensure your outdoor space is designed and built to provide years of enjoyment.