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-built deck or porch can completely transform how you live in and enjoy your home in El Cerrito. It’s more than an outdoor structure—it becomes a natural extension of your living space, where everyday moments feel more relaxed and more connected. From quiet morning coffee in the fresh air to weekend barbecues, birthday gatherings, or simply unwinding after a long day, a thoughtfully designed deck or porch creates space for the lifestyle you actually want to live.
In many El Cerrito neighborhoods, outdoor space is just as valuable as indoor square footage. A custom-built deck or porch allows you to make the most of that space by improving flow, function, and comfort. It also adds long-term value to your home while enhancing curb appeal and usability year-round. When designed correctly, it blends seamlessly with your home’s architecture so it feels intentional—not like an afterthought.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights Inc., we bring over 40 years of Bay Area construction experience to every project we take on. Our team specializes in building durable, code-compliant, and visually refined decks and porches tailored to each homeowner’s property and goals. We don’t rely on one-size-fits-all designs. Instead, we focus on craftsmanship, structural integrity, and thoughtful design that fits your home, your budget, and your long-term plans.
Whether you’re replacing an aging, weathered structure or starting fresh with a brand-new outdoor living space, we handle the entire process from planning to completion. That includes design guidance, construction, and final detailing—so you get a smooth experience and a finished result built to last.
If your outdoor area feels underused, outdated, unsafe, or disconnected from the way you live today, a custom deck or porch is often the most effective upgrade you can make. Homeowners throughout El Cerrito choose our team when they want reliable construction backed by decades of proven experience.
We are commonly called for projects where homeowners need:
We understand that home improvement projects can feel overwhelming, especially when structural work is involved. That’s why we keep everything straightforward from the beginning. You get clear expectations, realistic timelines, and transparent estimates—no confusion and no unnecessary delays. Our goal is to make the process feel controlled, predictable, and stress-free while delivering results that elevate your home.
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.
For decades, homeowners throughout the East Bay—including El Cerrito—have relied on Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights for dependable craftsmanship and long-lasting construction results. Our reputation wasn’t built overnight. It comes from consistently delivering well-built structures, clear communication, and a level of care that makes every project feel personally managed from start to finish.
When homeowners choose us for deck and porch construction, they’re choosing a contractor that prioritizes stability, safety, and long-term performance over shortcuts or temporary fixes. Outdoor structures in the Bay Area face year-round exposure to moisture, sun, and shifting soil conditions, so we build with durability in mind at every stage—from framing to finishing details.
Our reputation is built on:
Over 40 Years Of General Contracting Experience
With more than four decades serving Bay Area communities, we’ve worked on homes of all ages, styles, and structural conditions. That experience allows us to anticipate challenges before they become problems, ensuring smoother builds and more reliable outcomes.
Hands-On Leadership And Skilled Craftsmanship
Our projects are guided by experienced professionals who stay involved throughout the entire process. This means better oversight, higher-quality workmanship, and accountability at every stage of construction.
Clear communication from start to finish
Homeowners never feel left guessing. We provide straightforward updates, realistic timelines, and honest expectations so you always know where your project stands and what comes next.
Structural Integrity And Long-Term Durability Focus
We don’t just build decks that look good on day one—we build systems designed to remain safe, level, and strong for years. That includes proper load-bearing design, moisture protection, and high-quality materials suited for local conditions.
Proven Experience With Complex Residential Projects
From sloped hillside lots to multi-level deck systems and older homes requiring structural reinforcement, we handle challenging builds with precision and confidence.
We approach every deck and porch as if we were building it for our own home, carefully planning every detail, reinforcing every connection point, and focusing on long-term performance rather than short-term convenience.
We provide complete, start-to-finish deck and porch construction services tailored to homes in El Cerrito. Whether you’re building new, upgrading an existing structure, or repairing damage, we deliver solutions designed for safety, function, and long-term value.
Our services include:
Custom New Deck Design And Construction
We create fully customized deck layouts based on your home’s architecture, yard conditions, and intended use—whether for entertaining, relaxing, or expanding usable living space.
Front Porch Builds And Entryway Upgrades
Enhance curb appeal and functionality with welcoming porch designs that improve your home’s entrance, lighting, and overall exterior presence.
Multi-Level And Elevated Deck Systems
Ideal for sloped lots and hillside homes, these structures maximize usable outdoor space while maintaining structural stability and visual appeal.
Structural Rebuilds And Replacements
If your existing deck is aging, unsafe, or no longer functional, we remove and rebuild it using modern standards and improved materials.
Foundation-Supported Deck Framing
We ensure every structure is properly anchored and engineered for long-term strength, especially in areas with shifting soil or uneven terrain.
Wood And Composite Decking Installations
We offer material options to match your maintenance preferences, aesthetic goals, and budget—balancing natural beauty with durability.
Stairs, Railings, And Safety Upgrades
Every access point is built for safety, comfort, and code compliance, with secure railings and well-designed stair systems.
Waterproofing And Weather Protection Solutions
We incorporate protective systems that help prevent moisture damage, rot, and premature wear caused by seasonal weather conditions.
Integrated Lighting And Skylight Coordination Options
We can incorporate lighting and coordinate with skylight features to enhance the ambiance and usability of your outdoor space.
Repairs For Rot, Aging Structures, Or Storm Damage
We restore damaged decks and porches, addressing structural issues while improving overall safety and longevity.
We also coordinate seamlessly with related exterior improvements such as siding upgrades, drainage solutions, and concrete work when needed—ensuring your entire outdoor system works together as one cohesive structure.
Explore more about our deck capabilities.
Homeowners in El Cerrito choose Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights for a wide range of custom outdoor living projects designed to improve comfort, usability, and long-term property value. Each build is tailored to the home’s layout, terrain, and the homeowner’s lifestyle goals.
Some of the most common deck and porch projects we complete include:
Each project is designed with a balance of aesthetics, durability, and everyday practicality. We focus on building outdoor spaces that don’t just look good when completed—but continue to perform safely and beautifully for years to come.
We proudly serve all areas of El Cerrito, bringing expert deck and porch construction to a wide range of residential settings—from hillside properties with expansive views to compact city lots that require efficient, space-smart outdoor designs. Each neighborhood has its own character, terrain, and construction considerations, and our approach is always tailored to match the specific conditions of the home and lot.
Our local experience allows us to anticipate grading challenges, drainage needs, structural load requirements, and design styles that best fit each area of the city. Whether the project is a full structural rebuild or a simple porch upgrade, we ensure every detail aligns with both safety standards and long-term performance.
We regularly work in neighborhoods and nearby landmarks such as:
El Cerrito Hills – Known for elevated homes and sweeping Bay Area views, this area often requires engineered deck systems designed for sloped terrain, deeper footings, and reinforced framing to ensure long-term stability on hillside lots.
Arlington Heights – A well-established residential neighborhood where front porches and entryway upgrades are especially popular. Homeowners here often focus on improving curb appeal while maintaining the character of their existing architecture.
Fat Apples Area (near San Pablo Avenue corridor) – This corridor includes many older homes where deck replacements, structural reinforcements, and safety upgrades are common due to aging outdoor structures and evolving building standards.
Fairmont Terrace – A family-friendly neighborhood where backyard decks are frequently designed for outdoor dining, entertaining, and everyday relaxation, often with a focus on maximizing usable yard space.
El Cerrito Plaza vicinity – A more urban-influenced area where homes benefit from compact, efficient porch and deck designs that enhance outdoor living without requiring large footprints.
Ohlone Greenway Corridor – Properties near this popular trail system often incorporate outdoor living spaces that connect seamlessly with recreation and walking access, making decks and porches ideal for relaxation and lifestyle enhancement.
Kensington border areas – Homes near the border of Kensington frequently sit on sloped or irregular terrain, requiring carefully engineered framing systems and elevation solutions to create safe, level outdoor living areas.
Across all of these areas, we understand the unique requirements, soil conditions, architectural styles, and structural challenges that come with building in El Cerrito and its surrounding East Bay communities.
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 has been serving the Bay Area for over 40 years, with a long-standing presence throughout El Cerrito and surrounding East Bay communities. Over that time, we’ve completed a wide range of residential construction projects, including custom decks, porch builds, structural repairs, and full exterior upgrades that continue to perform well long after completion.
Our experience in the region means we understand how local homes are built, how soil and hillside conditions affect outdoor structures, and what it takes to ensure long-term durability in Northern California’s changing climate. That local knowledge matters—especially when you’re investing in something as structurally important and frequently used as a deck or porch.
Our approach is simple and consistent across every project:
Build With Integrity
We prioritize doing the job correctly from the start, using sound construction practices and dependable materials that support long-term structural performance.
Use Proven Construction Methods
Every deck and porch is built using time-tested techniques that account for load-bearing requirements, weather exposure, and proper structural support.
Prioritize Safety And Longevity
We don’t treat outdoor structures as cosmetic upgrades. They are functional extensions of your home, and we build them to remain safe, stable, and reliable for years to come.
Deliver Consistent, High-Quality Results
From planning to final inspection, we maintain a high standard of workmanship and attention to detail across every phase of construction.
We don’t cut corners. We don’t rely on temporary fixes. We build outdoor structures designed to last for decades, not seasons—because homeowners deserve outdoor spaces that remain strong, functional, and visually appealing long after the project is complete.
A professionally designed and built deck or porch does far more than improve the appearance of your home in El Cerrito. It fundamentally changes how you use and experience your living space every day. Instead of viewing your backyard or entryway as unused or underutilized space, a custom structure transforms it into a functional extension of your home.
When thoughtfully planned, a deck or porch becomes a central gathering place—whether for quiet personal moments, family activities, or entertaining guests. It bridges the gap between indoor comfort and outdoor living, creating a more flexible and enjoyable home environment.
Key benefits include:
Expanded Usable Living Space Without A Full Addition
A deck or porch provides additional square footage for everyday use without the cost and complexity of a full interior remodel or home addition.
Improved Property Value And Market Appeal
Well-built outdoor living spaces are highly attractive to buyers and can significantly enhance your home’s overall marketability and perceived value.
Better Outdoor Functionality For Dining, Relaxing, And Entertaining
A custom layout allows you to define spaces for seating, grilling, dining, or lounging, making your outdoor area more practical and enjoyable.
Enhanced Curb Appeal With A Well-Designed Entry Or Porch
A front porch upgrade improves first impressions instantly, adding character, warmth, and architectural balance to your home’s exterior.
Safer, Code-Compliant Outdoor Structures
Professionally built decks and porches meet local building codes, ensuring proper structural support, safe railings, and long-term stability.
Long-Term Durability With Proper Materials And Installation
Using quality materials and correct installation methods helps prevent issues like rot, shifting, or structural weakening over time.
Whether you’re planning to stay in your home long-term or preparing for future resale, a custom outdoor structure is one of the most practical and high-impact home improvements you can make—delivering both everyday enjoyment and lasting value.
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 El Cerrito, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights proudly serves a wide range of nearby East Bay communities. Our work extends throughout residential neighborhoods where homeowners value quality craftsmanship, durable construction, and outdoor living spaces built to last.
We regularly serve surrounding cities and communities including Berkeley, Richmond, Albany, Oakland, and Kensington, along with nearby residential pockets and hillside neighborhoods throughout the East Bay corridor.
Across all of these locations, our approach remains consistent: we deliver structurally sound, carefully planned, and professionally built decks and porches designed for long-term use. Whether we’re working on a compact urban lot, a hillside property with elevation challenges, or a traditional suburban backyard, we tailor every project to match the home’s structure, terrain, and architectural style.
No matter the location, homeowners can expect the same level of professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to quality that has defined our work for over 40 years. We believe every project deserves careful planning, strong construction practices, and a finished result that enhances both function and appearance.
Your outdoor space should feel like a natural extension of your home—comfortable, functional, and built with long-term durability in mind. In El Cerrito, homeowners are increasingly investing in custom decks and porches that improve everyday living, expand usable space, and enhance overall property value.
Whether you’re envisioning a brand-new custom deck, upgrading an aging porch, or rebuilding a structure that no longer meets safety standards, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights is ready to help bring your project to life. We combine decades of construction experience with a commitment to clear communication, reliable timelines, and high-quality workmanship from start to finish.
We take the time to understand your goals, evaluate your property, and design a solution that fits your home, your budget, and your long-term plans. The result is an outdoor structure that doesn’t just look good on completion—it continues to perform safely and beautifully for years to come.
Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today for a free deck and porch construction estimate.
Most deck and porch projects in El Cerrito take about 1–4 weeks to complete once construction begins. The exact timeline depends on the size of the structure, design complexity, site conditions, and engineering is required. Larger or hillside builds may take longer due to structural reinforcement and inspection scheduling. We provide a clear project timeline upfront so you know what to expect at every stage.
We work with both traditional wood and modern composite decking materials. Wood offers a natural look and can be more customizable in appearance, while composite materials are valued for low maintenance and long-term resistance to weather, moisture, and wear. We’ll walk you through the pros and cons of each based on your budget, maintenance preferences, and design goals.
Yes. We regularly handle full deck removals and rebuilds, especially for older structures that no longer meet current safety standards. If your existing deck shows signs of rot, instability, or structural damage, we’ll assess it and recommend either targeted repairs or a complete replacement to ensure long-term safety and durability.
Absolutely. We design and construct both front porches and backyard decks, depending on how you want to improve your home’s functionality and appearance. Front porches are ideal for curb appeal and entryway upgrades, while backyard decks focus on outdoor living, dining, and entertainment spaces.
Yes. Sloped and hillside properties are common in El Cerrito, and we are experienced in designing and engineering elevated deck systems that work safely with uneven terrain. This often involves reinforced framing, deeper footings, and carefully planned structural support to ensure stability and long-term performance.
Yes. Every deck and porch project we build is custom-designed. We take into account your home’s architecture, yard layout, intended use, and personal style preferences. The result is a structure that feels like a natural extension of your home rather than a standard, off-the-shelf build.
Yes. We carefully select materials, colors, railings, and finishes to complement your home’s existing design. Whether your home is modern, traditional, or mid-century, we aim for a cohesive look that enhances overall curb appeal and architectural harmony.
We begin with a thorough inspection to determine the extent of the damage. In some cases, targeted repairs may be enough, but if the structure is unsafe or beyond repair, we recommend a full rebuild. Our priority is always safety, compliance, and long-term stability.
Getting started is simple. You can schedule a consultation and our team will evaluate your project, discuss design ideas, review material options, and provide a detailed estimate. From there, we guide you through planning, permitting, and construction step by step.