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 living space should feel like a natural extension of your home, a place where you can relax with family, entertain guests, enjoy Oakland’s pleasant climate, or simply unwind after a busy day. Whether you’re dreaming of a spacious backyard deck, an inviting front porch, or a custom outdoor retreat on your property, choosing an experienced contractor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we’ve been providing exceptional Deck & Porch Construction in Oakland, CA, and throughout the Bay Area since 1983. With more than 40 years of experience in general contracting, structural construction, and home remodeling, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners create outdoor spaces that combine beauty, functionality, and long-lasting performance. Every project is approached with the same philosophy that has guided our company for decades: quality craftsmanship, honest communication, and dependable service.
Oakland is one of the Bay Area’s most architecturally diverse cities. Historic Craftsman homes in Rockridge, elegant Victorians near Lake Merritt, mid-century properties in Montclair, and contemporary hillside residences all require different construction approaches. Sloped lots, mature trees, varying elevations, expansive views, and neighborhood-specific architectural character influence every design decision. Because we’ve spent decades working throughout the East Bay, we understand these local conditions and incorporate them into every project we build.
Our expertise extends far beyond simply constructing decks and porches. As an experienced general contractor, we evaluate how your new outdoor living space connects with your home’s overall structure. Proper framing, foundation support, drainage management, accessibility, and integration with existing architecture all contribute to a finished project that’s not only beautiful but also structurally sound and built for years of reliable performance.
Whether you’re replacing an aging deck that has reached the end of its lifespan, expanding your backyard entertaining area, building a welcoming front porch, or creating a completely new outdoor gathering space, our goal is always the same: to deliver exceptional craftsmanship that enhances your home’s appearance, functionality, and long-term value.
Every homeowner has a different vision. Some want an outdoor dining area perfect for weekend barbecues, while others envision a peaceful retreat surrounded by landscaping or a spacious deck for family celebrations. Whatever your goals may be, our team works closely with you from the initial consultation through project completion to ensure every detail reflects your needs and expectations.
Many deck and porch projects in Oakland vary in scope and complexity. As part of our comprehensive construction process, we provide thoughtful guidance from the initial consultation through project completion, giving you confidence that every project is completed with exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail.
As a trusted Bay Area contractor, we take pride in building outdoor spaces that reflect the quality and character of the homes we serve. Every project receives personalized attention, detailed planning, and experienced craftsmanship because we understand that your investment deserves lasting results.
If you’re looking for expert Deck & Porch Construction in Oakland, CA, our experienced team is ready to help you transform your ideas into an outdoor space your family will enjoy for decades.
Whether your existing deck has begun showing signs of age, you’re planning to build your very first outdoor living space, or you’re looking to completely reimagine your backyard, choosing the right contractor makes all the difference. A professionally designed and constructed deck or porch provides much more than extra square footage; it creates a comfortable place to gather, improves your home’s functionality, enhances curb appeal, and becomes an investment you’ll appreciate every day.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we understand that no two homes or homeowners are alike. That’s why every project begins with listening to your ideas, evaluating your property’s unique characteristics, and developing a customized plan that aligns with your goals, lifestyle, and budget. Rather than offering standardized solutions, we focus on creating outdoor spaces that feel like a seamless extension of your home.
Our comprehensive approach begins with understanding how you envision using your new deck or porch.
Oakland presents unique opportunities for custom outdoor construction. Homes throughout the city often feature sloping lots, mature landscaping, varied elevations, and diverse architectural styles that require thoughtful planning. Hillside properties may require specialized structural support, while homes closer to the bay may experience changing moisture conditions throughout the year. By accounting for these local factors early in the planning process, we help homeowners avoid unnecessary complications while creating outdoor spaces designed specifically for their property’s environment.
As a full-service contractor serving the Bay Area since 1983, our experience extends well beyond deck and porch construction. This broader construction expertise allows us to identify opportunities, anticipate structural considerations, and deliver complete solutions that integrate naturally with your home’s existing design and future improvement plans.
If you’re searching for a contractor that values integrity, craftsmanship, and personalized service, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights is ready to help bring your outdoor vision to life. Learn more about our comprehensive Deck & Porch Construction services and see how our decades of experience can help transform your home.
Ready to bring your outdoor living vision to life? Whether you’re planning a custom backyard deck, a welcoming front porch, or a complete outdoor living transformation, our experienced team is here to help every step of the way. 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.
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.
Building a new deck or porch is about much more than adding an outdoor feature to your home. It’s an investment in your property’s functionality, appearance, and long-term value. The contractor you choose will influence not only the finished product but also your overall construction experience. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we’ve earned the trust of Bay Area homeowners by consistently delivering quality workmanship, honest communication, and dependable service for more than 40 years.
Whether you’re planning a simple front porch or a fully customized outdoor living area, you can expect thoughtful guidance, dependable workmanship, and a commitment to building a space you’ll enjoy for years to come. Learn more about our specialized Deck & Porch Construction services and see how our experienced team can help transform your outdoor living space.
Ready to create an outdoor space you’ll love? From custom decks and inviting front porches to complete outdoor living environments, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights is ready to help turn your vision into reality. 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 your free estimate today.
A well-designed deck or porch is more than an outdoor addition; it becomes a natural extension of your home’s living space. Whether you’re creating a place to entertain, relax with family, improve your home’s entrance, or maximize your backyard, every project deserves careful planning, quality craftsmanship, and attention to detail. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we provide comprehensive Deck & Porch Construction in Oakland, CA, delivering customized solutions for your home’s architecture, your property’s unique conditions, and your long-term goals.
As a full-service general contractor serving the Bay Area since 1983, we understand that every outdoor construction project is different. Some homeowners are replacing aging structures that have reached the end of their lifespan, while others are building completely new outdoor living spaces from the ground up. Regardless of the project’s size or complexity, our team takes the time to understand your vision and develop a solution that enhances both your lifestyle and your property’s value.
Custom Deck Construction
A custom-built deck provides additional living space that can be enjoyed throughout much of the year. Whether attached to your home or designed as a standalone backyard feature, a professionally constructed deck creates the perfect setting for outdoor dining, family gatherings, entertaining guests, or simply relaxing after a long day. As experienced general contractors, we also ensure the structural components beneath your deck receive the same attention as the finished surface. Proper framing, support systems, drainage, and construction techniques help ensure your investment performs reliably for years to come.
Front Porch Construction
Your front porch is one of the first things visitors notice about your home. It creates an inviting entrance while serving as a practical transition between your indoor and outdoor spaces. A thoughtfully designed front porch can significantly enhance curb appeal while improving everyday functionality. Many Oakland homes feature distinctive architectural details, and we take great care to preserve the character of your residence while incorporating modern construction methods that improve durability and long-term performance.
Porch Renovation and Replacement
When repairs are no longer the most practical solution, we provide complete porch replacement services that allow homeowners to enjoy the benefits of modern construction while maintaining the original character of their home. Our team evaluates the condition of the existing structure, identifies any underlying structural concerns, and recommends solutions tailored to your property’s specific needs.
Deck Replacement
Older decks may begin showing signs of structural wear, weather damage, or outdated design after years of service. While some situations only require repairs, others benefit from complete replacement that improves safety, functionality, and appearance. Replacing an older deck also provides an excellent opportunity to expand your outdoor space, improve accessibility, or create additional areas for entertaining and relaxation.
Custom Stairs, Railings, and Entry Features
Stairs and railings play an important role in both safety and appearance. They should provide secure access while complementing the overall design of your deck or porch. Whether your project involves a simple front entrance or multiple elevation changes on a hillside property, we create access solutions that are practical, attractive, and built for everyday use.
Outdoor Living Space Design
Today’s homeowners often want more than a basic deck; they’re looking for complete outdoor environments that expand the way they use their property. Every project begins with understanding how your family intends to use the space. From there, we develop a layout that balances beauty, comfort, and long-term functionality.
Structural Repairs and Reinforcement
Not every deck or porch requires complete replacement. In some cases, structural repairs may restore safety and stability while extending the life of the existing structure. Our broader experience with structural construction, foundations, and residential remodeling allows us to approach these projects with a comprehensive understanding of how every component works together.
Construction for Oakland’s Unique Properties
Oakland presents a variety of site conditions that require thoughtful planning during deck and porch construction. Hillside properties often involve varying elevations and specialized structural considerations, while homes in flatter neighborhoods may present different drainage or landscape challenges.
Every deck and porch construction project is unique, with different levels of complexity based on your home’s layout, site conditions, and design goals. As part of our construction process, we provide clear guidance and personalized support from the initial consultation through project completion, helping ensure every phase moves forward as smoothly and efficiently as possible. With more than 40 years of experience serving homeowners throughout the Bay Area, we’re committed to delivering exceptional craftsmanship, dependable communication, and a construction experience you can feel confident about.
A Personalized Construction Experience
Every homeowner has different priorities, and no two projects are exactly alike. That’s why we take a collaborative approach from the very beginning. We listen carefully to your goals, answer your questions honestly, and provide practical recommendations that align with your vision, budget, and long-term plans. From the first consultation through project completion, our team is committed to delivering exceptional craftsmanship, dependable communication, and personalized service. Whether you’re planning a welcoming front porch, a spacious backyard deck, or a complete outdoor living transformation, you can trust Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights to deliver results built with integrity and care.
To learn more about our full range of Deck & Porch Construction and general contracting services, explore our service offerings, and see how our experienced team can help bring your outdoor living vision to life.
Ready to build the outdoor space you’ve been imagining? Whether you’re replacing an aging deck, adding a beautiful front porch, or creating a custom outdoor living area from the ground up, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights is 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 your free estimate today.
A deck or porch should be a safe, attractive, and functional extension of your home. Years of exposure to the elements, natural aging, structural movement, and everyday use can eventually take a toll on even well-built outdoor structures. Left unaddressed, minor issues can develop into more significant structural concerns that affect both safety and the long-term value of your property.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we help Oakland homeowners identify existing problems, determine the underlying cause, and recommend practical, long-lasting solutions. Because we’re a full-service Bay Area general contractor with more than 40 years of experience, we look beyond cosmetic damage to ensure the entire structure performs safely and reliably for years to come.
Whether your deck simply needs repairs or a complete replacement is the better investment, our team provides honest recommendations based on the condition of your structure and your long-term goals.
Whether your existing structure requires repairs, reinforcement, modernization, or a completely new design, our goal is to provide solutions that enhance both your home and your everyday enjoyment of it.
If you’re noticing signs of wear, movement, or deterioration, or you’re simply ready to create a better outdoor living space, our experienced team is here to help. Learn more about our Deck & Porch Construction services and how we can transform your property with quality craftsmanship built to last.
Ready to upgrade your deck or porch? Small issues can become larger and more costly if they’re ignored. Whether you’re planning repairs, replacing an aging structure, or building a completely new outdoor living space, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights is ready 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.
Oakland is one of the Bay Area’s most vibrant and architecturally diverse cities. From historic neighborhoods filled with century-old homes to contemporary residences nestled in the hills, every area has its own unique character and outdoor living opportunities. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we’ve spent more than 40 years helping homeowners throughout Oakland design and build custom decks and porches that complement their homes while standing up to the region’s unique environmental conditions.
Our familiarity with Oakland’s neighborhoods allows us to design outdoor spaces that reflect each community’s architectural style, lot configuration, and landscape. Whether your property sits on a steep hillside, features mature trees, or has limited backyard space, we tailor every project to maximize functionality, beauty, and long-term durability.
No matter where you’re located in Oakland, our goal remains the same: to build outdoor living spaces that feel like a natural extension of your home while providing years of enjoyment for your family.
Whether your project involves a custom backyard deck, a welcoming front porch, or a complete outdoor living transformation, our experienced team is committed to delivering craftsmanship that reflects the quality of your home and the unique character of your neighborhood.
If you’re planning a deck or porch project anywhere in Oakland, our team is ready to help you create an outdoor space that’s built to last and designed around your lifestyle.
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.
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.
Choosing the right contractor for your deck or porch project is about more than finding someone who can build. It’s about partnering with a team that understands local homes, values quality craftsmanship, communicates honestly, and stands behind its work. For more than four decades, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights has been helping homeowners throughout Oakland and the Bay Area transform their properties with expertly built outdoor living spaces and comprehensive construction services.
Our experience spans thousands of successful projects across the Bay Area, giving us the knowledge to confidently work with homes of all ages, architectural styles, and property types. From historic Craftsman residences and charming Victorians to mid-century homes and contemporary hillside properties, we understand the construction techniques and planning considerations required to preserve each home’s character while enhancing its functionality.
Whether you’re replacing an aging deck, building a custom front porch, or creating a complete outdoor living space, our experienced team is committed to delivering results you’ll enjoy for many years.
If you’re considering a new outdoor project, learn more about our Deck & Porch Construction services and discover how our decades of Bay Area experience can help bring your ideas 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.
Planning a new deck or porch is an exciting opportunity to expand your home’s living space, improve curb appeal, and create an area your family can enjoy for years to come. However, a successful project begins long before construction starts. Taking the time to evaluate your goals, understand your property’s unique characteristics, and work with an experienced contractor can help ensure your investment delivers lasting value.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we’ve guided Bay Area homeowners through thousands of construction projects over the past 40 years. Whether you’re replacing an aging deck, adding a welcoming front porch, or designing a completely new outdoor living space, following these steps can help your project move forward with confidence.
1. Start With Your Long-Term Goals
Before selecting a design or discussing construction details, think about how you want to use your new outdoor space. Understanding your priorities helps shape every design decision, ensuring your new deck or porch supports your lifestyle both now and in the years ahead.
2. Evaluate Your Existing Outdoor Space
Every property offers different opportunities and challenges. Oakland’s neighborhoods vary considerably, from relatively flat residential lots to steep hillside properties. Evaluating these conditions early allows for a design that works with your property rather than against it.
3. Think Beyond Today’s Needs
One of the biggest advantages of custom construction is designing a space that continues to serve your family as your needs evolve. Planning often creates a more functional and flexible outdoor space while helping reduce the need for future modifications.
4. Choose an Experienced General Contractor
A deck or porch becomes a permanent part of your home’s structure. That’s why it’s important to work with a contractor who understands not only outdoor construction but also how the project integrates with your home’s framing, foundation, drainage, and overall structural system. Our broader construction experience also allows us to identify opportunities that homeowners may not initially consider, creating solutions that improve both functionality and long-term value.
5. Plan Your Project With Confidence
Every successful deck or porch project begins with thoughtful planning. Taking the time to evaluate your home’s layout, your property’s unique characteristics, and your long-term goals helps create an outdoor living space that fits your lifestyle and complements your home. Working with an experienced contractor helps streamline the process from the initial consultation through construction, providing clear guidance, practical recommendations, and dependable communication every step of the way. Our team is committed to making your project as organized, efficient, and stress-free as possible.
6. Consider Long-Term Durability
A well-built deck should provide enjoyment for many years, so it’s important to think beyond initial appearance. Making thoughtful decisions during the design phase often results in lower maintenance requirements and better long-term performance.
7. Customize the Space Around Your Lifestyle
The most successful outdoor living spaces aren’t simply attractive, but they’re designed around the people who use them. Every recommendation we make is based on how your family intends to enjoy the space rather than following a standard design template.
8. Don’t Ignore Signs Your Existing Deck Needs Attention
If you already have a deck or porch, don’t wait until obvious structural problems develop. Addressing concerns early often provides more options and helps prevent more significant structural issues later. If you’re unsure about the condition of your current structure, our experienced team can perform a professional evaluation and recommend the most practical solution.
9. Work With a Team That Values Communication
Construction projects should never leave homeowners wondering what’s happening next. Our goal is to make every phase of your deck or porch project as organized and stress-free as possible.
10. Partner With a Contractor You Can Trust
Since 1983, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights has helped homeowners throughout Oakland and the Bay Area improve their homes through quality construction and dependable service. Our commitment to craftsmanship, integrity, and personalized attention has made us a trusted choice for custom outdoor living projects of every size.
Whether you’re planning your first deck, replacing an aging porch, or creating an entirely new outdoor gathering space, our experienced team is ready to help you make informed decisions every step of the way.
To learn more about how we can help with your project, explore our Deck & Porch Construction services and see why homeowners throughout the Bay Area have trusted our team for more than four decades.
Every exceptional outdoor space starts with a thoughtful plan and an experienced contractor. Let Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights help you create a custom deck or porch that’s built for your home, your lifestyle, and your future.
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.
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…
For more than 40 years, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights has proudly served homeowners throughout Oakland and the greater Bay Area with dependable construction services, quality craftsmanship, and personalized solutions. Since 1983, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners enhance their properties with custom decks, inviting front porches, home remodeling projects, structural improvements, skylights, and other residential construction services designed to improve both comfort and long-term value.
As a trusted Bay Area general contractor, we understand that every community has its own architectural character, building considerations, and homeowner priorities. From Oakland’s historic neighborhoods and hillside homes to surrounding East Bay communities, we tailor every project to complement the home’s design while addressing local site conditions and each homeowner’s unique vision.
In addition to Oakland, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights proudly serves homeowners throughout many neighboring East Bay communities. Our service area includes:
Whether you’re planning a custom backyard deck, replacing an aging front porch, or completing a larger home improvement project, our experienced team is ready to provide the same dependable service and quality craftsmanship that Bay Area homeowners have trusted since 1983.
A professionally built deck or porch does more than improve your home’s appearance; it creates a place where family gathers, friends connect, and everyday moments become more enjoyable. Whether you’re replacing an aging structure, expanding your outdoor entertaining space, or designing a completely custom backyard retreat, choosing the right contractor helps ensure your investment delivers lasting value.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we’ve spent more than four decades helping Bay Area homeowners turn their ideas into beautiful, functional outdoor living spaces. Our team combines thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship, and honest communication to deliver projects tailored to your home, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
From the initial consultation to the final walkthrough, we’re committed to making your construction experience smooth, transparent, and rewarding. Every project receives personalized attention because we understand that your home deserves solutions built with care, precision, and integrity.
If you’re ready to transform your property with custom Deck & Porch Construction, we’d love the opportunity 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.
Depends on the overall condition of your deck's structural components, not just its appearance. While surface issues such as worn boards or faded finishes can often be repaired, more significant problems involving support posts, framing, beams, joists, or widespread deterioration may make replacement the safer and more cost-effective option.
During a professional evaluation, it's important to determine whether the underlying structure is still sound. A deck that has experienced years of weather exposure, movement, or structural wear may require more than cosmetic improvements. In many cases, replacing an older deck provides homeowners with the opportunity to enhance functionality, expand outdoor living space, improve curb appeal, and incorporate modern construction methods that enhance long-term durability.
Preparing for a deck or porch project starts with defining how you want to use your new outdoor living space and choosing a contractor with the experience to bring your vision to life. During the initial consultation, it's helpful to discuss your goals, budget, preferred design, and any unique characteristics of your property, such as sloped terrain, mature landscaping, or existing structures that may influence the project.
An experienced contractor will evaluate your home's layout, explain your options, answer your questions, and develop a customized plan that aligns with your needs and long-term goals. Careful planning at the beginning of the project helps create a smoother construction experience and results in an outdoor space that enhances both your lifestyle and your home's value.
Project timelines vary depending on several factors, including the size of the deck or porch, design complexity, site conditions, weather, material availability, and the overall scope of the project. A straightforward project may take considerably less time than a custom outdoor living space built on a hillside property with multiple levels, specialized structural requirements, or extensive site preparation.
The planning phase is equally important. Before construction begins, we carefully evaluate your property, discuss your goals, finalize the design, and develop a customized construction plan. Taking the time to prepare every detail upfront helps the project move forward more efficiently while reducing the likelihood of unexpected delays.
Designing a custom outdoor living space involves much more than choosing a shape or selecting materials. Every successful project begins with understanding how you plan to use the space and how it will integrate with your home's existing architecture and landscape.
Important considerations include the size and layout of your yard, existing landscaping, sun exposure throughout the day, privacy, drainage, accessibility, views, traffic flow, and the relationship between indoor and outdoor living areas. For hillside properties in Oakland, elevation changes and structural planning also play an important role in the overall design.
Oakland's diverse neighborhoods present a wide variety of architectural styles, property layouts, and environmental conditions. Homes in areas such as Rockridge, Grand Lake, and Temescal often feature historic architectural details that deserve careful consideration when making any exterior improvements. Properties in Montclair and the Oakland Hills frequently require specialized planning due to sloped lots, changing elevations, and scenic viewpoints.
Other factors such as mature trees, drainage patterns, varying soil conditions, sun exposure, and neighborhood character also influence design and construction decisions. A deck that works well on a level suburban lot may require a completely different structural approach on a hillside property.
A professionally designed and constructed deck or porch is often considered one of the most valuable exterior improvements a homeowner can make. While every property and real estate market is different, outdoor living spaces generally enhance curb appeal, improve functionality, and increase the overall enjoyment homeowners receive from their property.
Today's buyers frequently appreciate homes with attractive outdoor gathering areas that provide additional usable living space. Beyond potential resale value, homeowners benefit from creating comfortable environments for entertaining, dining, relaxing, and spending time with family throughout much of the year.
As a full-service Bay Area general contractor, we provide a wide range of custom outdoor construction solutions designed to meet each homeowner's unique needs.
Because our expertise extends beyond deck construction into remodeling, structural work, foundations, and general contracting, we're able to evaluate every project from a comprehensive perspective rather than focusing on a single component of the home.
Long-term durability begins with thoughtful planning and quality construction. Proper structural design, sound framing, effective drainage, careful installation, and routine maintenance all contribute to extending the life of your outdoor living space.
It's also important to consider how your property affects the structure. Factors such as moisture exposure, direct sunlight, landscaping, drainage, and hillside conditions can all influence long-term performance. During the planning process, we evaluate these site-specific characteristics to ensure they are addressed before construction begins.
Choosing a contractor is one of the most important decisions you'll make during any home improvement project. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we've been helping homeowners throughout Oakland and the Bay Area improve their homes since 1983 through quality craftsmanship, personalized service, and dependable construction solutions.
Learn more about our complete Deck & Porch Construction services and see how our experienced team can help transform your outdoor living space.
Getting started is easier than many homeowners expect. The first step is scheduling a consultation with an experienced contractor who can evaluate your property, discuss your goals, answer your questions, and recommend solutions tailored to your home's layout and your family's lifestyle.
During the consultation, we'll discuss your vision, evaluate existing site conditions, explore design options, and provide a detailed estimate based on your specific needs. Our team believes informed homeowners make better decisions, so we take the time to explain every stage of the project, answer your questions, and provide honest recommendations without unnecessary pressure.