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 be just as comfortable, functional, and inviting as the inside of your home. Whether you envision a spacious backyard deck for entertaining, a welcoming front porch that enhances curb appeal, or a custom outdoor retreat where you can relax year-round, professional construction makes all the difference. A well-designed deck or porch not only expands your usable living space but also adds lasting beauty, convenience, and value to your property.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we’ve been helping Bay Area homeowners bring their outdoor living ideas to life since 1983. With more than 40 years of construction experience, we understand that every home and every homeowner is different. That’s why we never believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Every deck and porch we build is carefully designed to complement the home’s architecture, maximize available space, and meet the practical needs of the family who will enjoy it for years to come.
Whether you’re replacing an aging structure, expanding an existing deck, or building a brand-new outdoor living area from the ground up, our experienced team delivers dependable craftsmanship and attention to detail at every stage of the project. Learn more about our Deck & Porch Construction services here.
Pinole offers an exceptional setting for outdoor living. From quiet residential neighborhoods to hillside homes with beautiful Bay Area views, many properties have excellent potential for custom decks and porches that extend everyday living beyond the walls of the home. Our experience working throughout the East Bay allows us to design outdoor structures that complement each property’s unique layout while accounting for factors such as elevation changes, drainage considerations, sun exposure, and long-term durability.
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.
Whether your current deck has begun showing signs of age, you’re planning to build a completely new outdoor living space, or you’d like to create a beautiful front porch that enhances your home’s appearance, choosing an experienced contractor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. A professionally constructed deck or porch should be more than visually appealing; it should be structurally sound, built to withstand the Bay Area climate, and designed around the way your family lives.
Many homes throughout Pinole were built decades ago, and while these properties offer tremendous character, their outdoor structures often require updating or complete replacement. Aging lumber, weather exposure, moisture, shifting foundations, and years of regular use can all affect the safety and appearance of existing decks and porches. In other cases, homeowners simply want to expand their outdoor living space with modern features that better fit today’s lifestyle.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we help homeowners create outdoor environments that feel like a natural extension of the home. Whether your vision includes a spacious entertaining area, an elevated deck overlooking your backyard, a covered porch for year-round comfort, or a custom-designed front entrance that boosts curb appeal, we have the experience to bring your ideas to life with precision and craftsmanship.
Our philosophy is simple: build every project with integrity, quality, and attention to detail. We don’t just construct decks and porches, but we build outdoor spaces where families gather, celebrate milestones, relax after long days, and create lasting memories.
Whether your project is large or small, our experienced team is ready to help transform your vision into a finished outdoor living space you’ll enjoy for years.
Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality.
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights is certified and accredited by the best manufacturers in the industry. From Grip-Tite Foundation Systems, to James Hardie Siding, to VELUX Skylights, you can be sure to get the highest quality products for whatever your project.
Serving the San Francisco Bay Area for over 40 years with quality general contracting, home remodeling, and skylight installation means you'll get the benefits of our expertise for every project.
Maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction, we are proud to have provided our customers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area with quality construction and home improvement services for 40 years. With half of our new clients coming to us from referrals, it’s no secret that our customers/friends are truly pleased with the work we do.
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, Inc. is a longstanding partnership of 40 years between Archie Mares, Dennis Dow and hundreds of great customers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. We are a general contractor, building custom homes, additions, home remodeling, skylights, retaining wall construction and commercial remodeling.
Maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction, we are proud to have provided our customers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area with quality construction and home improvement services for 40 years. With half of our new clients coming to us from referrals, it’s no secret that our customers/friends are truly pleased with the work we do.
Choosing the right contractor for your deck or porch project is about more than finding someone who can build an attractive outdoor structure. It’s about partnering with a team that understands quality construction, values honest communication, and has the experience to create outdoor living spaces that remain safe, functional, and beautiful for years to come.
As an experienced general contractor, we understand that every deck or porch should complement the existing home while meeting the homeowner’s practical needs and long-term goals. Whether you’re creating a quiet place to relax, expanding your outdoor entertaining space, or replacing an aging structure, our team works closely with you to ensure every detail reflects your vision.
If you’d like to learn more about our comprehensive Deck & Porch Construction services, visit our service page.
Construction experience matters, especially when building outdoor structures that must safely withstand years of weather exposure and daily use. With over four decades serving the Bay Area, we’ve developed the knowledge and craftsmanship needed to construct decks and porches with durability, structural integrity, and long-term performance in mind.
No two families use their outdoor spaces the same way. That’s why we never rely on standard templates or one-size-fits-all designs. Our team develops a personalized construction plan tailored specifically to your home and lifestyle.
A beautiful deck means very little if it isn’t built correctly. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, quality craftsmanship is the foundation of every project we complete. We pay close attention to structural framing, proper support systems, stair construction, railings, finishing details, and overall build quality to help ensure your investment performs well for many years.
Home improvement projects are significant investments, and homeowners deserve clear communication from start to finish. From your initial consultation through project completion, we keep you informed throughout every phase of construction. We’ll discuss your goals, answer your questions, explain available options, and provide realistic expectations regarding the project timeline and scope of work.
Building a new deck or porch involves more than construction alone. Proper planning, scheduling, and coordination all contribute to a successful outcome.
Many homes throughout Pinole feature unique architectural styles that deserve thoughtful improvements rather than generic additions. Our goal is to design and build decks and porches that feel like a natural extension of your home. We carefully consider your property’s existing design, layout, and aesthetic so the finished project blends seamlessly with the rest of your home instead of appearing as an afterthought.
Whether you’re building your first deck, replacing an aging porch, or expanding your outdoor living space, we’re dedicated to delivering quality results that stand the test of time.
Your outdoor living space should reflect the way you live today while providing lasting value for years to come. Whether you’re creating a relaxing backyard retreat, expanding your home’s entertainment area, or adding a welcoming front porch, a professionally built deck or porch can dramatically improve both the appearance and functionality of your property.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we offer comprehensive deck and porch construction services tailored to the unique needs of homeowners throughout Pinole. Every project begins with understanding your goals, evaluating your property, and developing a solution that complements your home’s architecture, outdoor space, and lifestyle. As a trusted Bay Area general contractor with more than 40 years of experience, we’re committed to delivering craftsmanship, durability, and personalized service from concept to completion.
Learn more about our Deck & Porch Construction services.
A custom deck creates additional living space while enhancing the overall enjoyment of your home. Whether you envision a peaceful place to unwind after work or a spacious gathering area for family and friends, we design and build decks that fit your property’s layout and your everyday lifestyle.
Many homeowners choose composite decking for its attractive appearance, durability, and reduced maintenance requirements. Composite materials resist many of the common issues associated with traditional wood, making them a practical option for busy households seeking long-term performance.
Nothing matches the timeless warmth and natural beauty of a well-crafted wood deck. Wood continues to be a popular choice for homeowners who appreciate its classic appearance and design flexibility.
Whether you’re replacing an aging porch or adding one to your home for the first time, we design front porches that balance beauty with functionality. Every porch is constructed to harmonize with your home’s architecture while providing a comfortable place to relax, greet guests, or enjoy the surrounding neighborhood.
A covered porch allows you to enjoy the outdoors while protecting you from the elements throughout much of the year. Whether attached to the front, side, or rear of your home, a covered porch creates a versatile outdoor living area suitable for relaxing, dining, or entertaining. Our team carefully designs each structure to complement your home’s overall appearance while maximizing comfort and usability.
Properties with varying elevations often benefit from multi-level deck designs that make efficient use of available space. Rather than viewing sloped terrain as a limitation, we create connected outdoor living areas that provide distinct spaces for dining, entertaining, cooking, and relaxation. Multi-level decks also help improve accessibility and create visual interest while maximizing your property’s potential.
Over time, weather exposure and regular use can cause decks to deteriorate, affecting both appearance and structural performance. If your existing deck has reached the end of its lifespan, our team can replace it with a beautifully constructed outdoor living space designed to meet today’s safety standards and your family’s evolving needs. We’ll evaluate the existing structure and recommend the most appropriate replacement solution for your property.
As families grow and lifestyles change, outdoor living needs often evolve as well. If your current deck no longer provides enough usable space, we can design and build an expansion that integrates seamlessly with the existing structure. Whether you’re adding room for outdoor dining, entertaining, or simply creating additional space to relax, we’ll develop a solution that feels like a natural extension of your home.
In some situations, the structural framework of a deck remains sound while the surface materials have begun showing signs of age or wear. Deck resurfacing offers homeowners an opportunity to refresh the appearance of their outdoor space without requiring a complete rebuild, provided the underlying structure remains suitable. Our team carefully evaluates the condition of your deck before recommending resurfacing as the appropriate solution.
Every durable deck begins with a properly constructed frame. The framing system serves as the structural foundation of the entire deck, supporting everything above it. We pay close attention to proper construction techniques, alignment, and overall structural integrity to help ensure your deck performs reliably for years to come.
Safe, attractive stairs and railings are essential components of any deck or porch. We construct stair systems and railings that enhance accessibility while complementing the overall design of your outdoor living space. Every element is carefully integrated into the finished project to provide both functionality and visual appeal.
A custom pergola can transform an ordinary deck into a comfortable outdoor retreat. Pergolas create architectural interest while providing partial shade and defining specific areas for relaxing, dining, or entertaining. Whether incorporated into a new deck or added as part of a larger outdoor living project, a pergola adds both character and usability to your backyard.
Outdoor kitchens continue to be one of the most popular upgrades for homeowners who enjoy entertaining. By incorporating dedicated cooking and preparation areas into your deck or patio design, you can create an outdoor gathering space that’s perfect for hosting family celebrations, weekend barbecues, and casual get-togethers. We thoughtfully plan each layout to maximize convenience while integrating seamlessly with the surrounding outdoor environment.
Built-in seating provides a clean, functional solution that maximizes available deck space while reducing the need for additional outdoor furniture. Whether surrounding a gathering area or incorporated along the deck perimeter, custom seating adds comfort, practicality, and a polished appearance to your finished outdoor living space.
For elevated decks or areas requiring additional moisture protection, waterproof deck systems help improve durability while protecting the structure below. When appropriate for your project, we incorporate waterproofing solutions designed to enhance long-term performance and help safeguard your investment against moisture-related issues.
Building a deck or porch involves more than construction alone. Every successful project begins with thoughtful planning, careful design, and attention to the details that contribute to lasting performance.
Pinole’s diverse mix of traditional homes, newer residential communities, and hillside properties means every project presents unique opportunities. Some homeowners are looking to replace an aging deck that has weathered decades of use, while others want to add a custom front porch or create an entirely new outdoor entertainment space. Whatever your goals may be, we provide personalized solutions backed by more than 40 years of Bay Area construction experience.
Learn more about our complete Deck & Porch Construction services.
Tara Hills is one of Pinole’s well-established residential communities, known for its quiet streets and family-friendly atmosphere. Many homes in the neighborhood feature spacious backyards that are ideal for custom decks, covered porches, pergolas, and outdoor gathering areas. Whether you’re replacing an existing structure or building a new outdoor retreat, we create designs that maximize both comfort and functionality.
The Pinole Valley area offers a variety of home styles and larger lots that lend themselves well to expanded outdoor living spaces. Homeowners here often choose multi-level decks, backyard entertainment areas, and custom porches that make the most of their available outdoor space while complementing the surrounding landscape.
Old Town Pinole is appreciated for its historic charm and established homes. When working in this area, we carefully design decks and porches that respect the original character of each property while introducing modern functionality, durability, and everyday comfort.
Located near San Pablo Bay, Pinole Shores offers scenic surroundings and attractive residential properties. Outdoor living spaces in this neighborhood can take advantage of the area’s pleasant setting, creating comfortable places for relaxing, entertaining, and enjoying the outdoors throughout much of the year.
Homes closer to the bay often benefit from outdoor living spaces that embrace the surrounding views while providing comfortable areas for family gatherings and everyday relaxation. We construct durable decks and porches designed with long-term performance and quality craftsmanship in mind.
No matter where your home is located in Pinole, our commitment remains the same. We approach every project with honesty, craftsmanship, and attention to detail, ensuring your new deck or porch is built to complement your home and support your lifestyle for years to come.
From the initial consultation through final construction, our experienced team is dedicated to delivering an outdoor living space you’ll enjoy season after season.
A deck or porch should provide a safe, comfortable, and attractive space where you can relax, entertain guests, and enjoy the outdoors. Years of exposure to the Bay Area’s changing weather conditions, everyday wear, and natural aging can eventually affect both the appearance and structural integrity of these outdoor features. In other cases, homeowners simply find that their existing deck or porch no longer meets their family’s needs.
Learn more about our professional Deck & Porch Construction services.
Many homes in Pinole were built years ago, and their original decks have endured decades of daily use and exposure to the elements. Over time, even well-built structures can begin to show signs of deterioration.
Your family’s lifestyle may have changed significantly since your deck or porch was originally built. Perhaps your current outdoor area feels too small for entertaining, lacks comfortable seating, or simply doesn’t reflect how you use your home today. We help homeowners transform outdated spaces into modern outdoor living areas designed for relaxation, dining, and gathering with family and friends.
One of the most common concerns homeowners share is simply not having enough usable outdoor space. A small deck may have worked years ago, but families and changing lifestyles often call for additional room to entertain guests, enjoy outdoor meals, or create dedicated spaces for relaxing.
Not every property offers a perfectly level building site. Pinole includes homes situated on sloped lots, varying elevations, and uniquely shaped properties that require thoughtful planning during construction. Rather than viewing these characteristics as obstacles, we design decks and porches that work with your property’s natural layout.
Many homeowners enjoy spending time outdoors but wish their existing deck offered greater comfort during warmer months or changing weather conditions.
Deck stairs and railings play an essential role in both safety and appearance. Over time, these components may become loose, weathered, outdated, or no longer complement the rest of the structure. Whether incorporated into a complete deck replacement or included in a new construction project, professionally designed stairs and railings improve accessibility while contributing to a cohesive finished design.
One of the biggest advantages of a professionally designed deck or porch is creating a seamless connection between your home’s interior and outdoor living areas.
A deck should do more than provide extra square footage; it should support the way you enjoy your home.
No two homes, and no two homeowners, have the same goals. That’s why every project we complete begins with understanding your vision, evaluating your property, and recommending a solution that fits your budget, lifestyle, and long-term plans.
Whether you’re replacing an aging deck, expanding your outdoor living space, constructing a beautiful front porch, or creating an entirely new backyard retreat, our experienced team is committed to delivering craftsmanship that stands the test of time.
Quality and service come first. We approach every job, big or small, with the same care and attention to detail we’d give our own homes. Our team combines time-tested building practices with modern innovation to deliver results that stand the test of time.
Ready to start your next project? Whether you’re planning a home remodel, skylight installation, or foundation repair, our team is here to help.
Reach out to us for a free consultation. We’ll listen, offer expert guidance, and provide a detailed estimate tailored to your goals.
To enhance the lives of Bay Area homeowners through expert construction, thoughtful design, and dependable service. For over 40 years, our mission has remained simple: build with integrity, serve with pride, and create spaces our clients love to live in.
We believe in integrity, craftsmanship, and lasting relationships. Every project is built on honesty, transparency, and respect - for our clients, our partners, and the homes we’re entrusted to improve.
When investing in a new deck or porch, experience matters. A beautifully designed outdoor living space should not only enhance your home’s appearance but also provide years of reliable performance through quality construction and thoughtful craftsmanship. That’s why homeowners throughout Pinole continue to choose Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights for projects that require skill, attention to detail, and a commitment to doing the job right.
Since 1983, we’ve proudly served homeowners across Pinole, the East Bay, and the greater San Francisco Bay Area. Over the past four decades, we’ve completed thousands of residential construction projects, helping families improve the comfort, functionality, and value of their homes. From custom home remodeling and structural improvements to outdoor living spaces, our experience allows us to approach every project with confidence and professionalism.
If you’d like to learn more, visit our complete Deck & Porch Construction services
Building a deck or porch isn’t simply about creating an attractive outdoor feature. Every property presents its own opportunities and considerations, from lot configuration and elevation changes to architectural style and outdoor living goals.
Our philosophy has remained unchanged since the day we opened our doors: Quality and service always come first. Every project, large or small, is approached with the same level of care and craftsmanship we would expect in our own homes.
No two homes in Pinole are exactly alike, and neither are the homeowners who live in them. Some clients come to us looking for a welcoming front porch that improves curb appeal. Others want a spacious backyard deck designed for entertaining family and friends. Some are replacing an aging structure, while others are creating an outdoor living area where none previously existed.
Building a new deck or porch involves many moving parts, and our team works hard to make the process straightforward from beginning to end.
Outdoor structures are exposed to daily use and the elements throughout the year. Proper planning, structural integrity, and skilled construction all contribute to how well your investment performs over time.
For more than four decades, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights has remained committed to the values that have guided our company since 1983. Homeowners throughout the Bay Area continue to choose us for our extensive construction experience, honest recommendations without unnecessary upselling, and personalized designs tailored to the unique needs of each property.
Whether you’re planning a brand-new deck, replacing an aging porch, expanding your outdoor living area, or creating a custom space for entertaining, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights is ready to help.
Our goal is simple: deliver an outdoor living space that complements your home, supports your lifestyle, and provides lasting value for years to come.
Planning a new deck or porch is an exciting opportunity to enhance your home’s functionality, appearance, and overall value. Whether you’re envisioning a peaceful space to unwind after a busy day, an outdoor entertainment area for family gatherings, or a welcoming front porch that boosts curb appeal, thoughtful planning is the key to a successful project.
To learn more, visit our professional Deck & Porch Construction services.
Before deciding on the size or design of your deck or porch, think about how you plan to use it. Understanding how you intend to use the space helps guide important design decisions and ensures your investment supports your lifestyle for years to come.
Every home in Pinole has its own unique characteristics. Factors such as lot size, elevation, yard configuration, and the home’s existing architecture all influence the design and construction process.
While appearance is important, your new deck or porch should also support your family’s future needs. Consider how your lifestyle may evolve over the coming years. A growing family, frequent entertaining, or changing accessibility needs may influence the ideal layout and size of your outdoor living space.
A custom deck or porch can become much more than an outdoor platform. Selecting features during the initial design process helps create a cohesive outdoor living environment while maximizing the value of your investment.
Different construction materials and design choices require varying levels of maintenance over time. During the planning process, we’ll discuss options that align with your preferences, helping you select solutions that balance appearance, durability, and long-term upkeep. Our goal is to build an outdoor living space that continues to perform beautifully for years with appropriate maintenance.
An experienced contractor provides more than construction expertise; they offer guidance throughout planning, communicate clearly, coordinate each phase of the project, and deliver workmanship that stands the test of time.
Whether you’re just beginning to explore ideas or you’re ready to move forward with construction, our team is here to help. We’ll listen to your goals, evaluate your property, answer your questions, and develop a customized solution designed around your home and lifestyle.
Ready to create an outdoor living space you’ll enjoy for decades? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise transform your ideas into a beautifully crafted deck or porch.
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…
As a trusted Bay Area general contractor, we understand that every community has its own architectural styles, property layouts, and homeowner preferences. That’s why we take a personalized approach to every project, designing and building decks and porches that complement each home’s unique character while meeting the practical needs of the families who live there.
Our complete Deck & Porch Construction services are available to homeowners throughout Pinole and nearby communities. Learn more about how we can help with your next outdoor living project.
In addition to Pinole, we proudly provide deck and porch construction services throughout the surrounding East Bay, including:
If you don’t see your community listed, feel free to contact us. As a full-service Bay Area general contractor, we proudly serve homeowners throughout much of the San Francisco Bay Area and are happy to discuss your project.
Whether you’re building your first deck, upgrading an existing porch, or creating an outdoor living space designed for entertaining family and friends, you can count on our experienced team to deliver results that combine beauty, functionality, and long-term durability.
Your outdoor space has the potential to become one of the most enjoyable and valuable parts of your home. Whether you’re envisioning a custom deck for entertaining, a welcoming front porch that enhances curb appeal, or a complete outdoor living area designed around your family’s lifestyle, partnering with an experienced contractor is the first step toward achieving lasting results.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we’ve been helping Bay Area homeowners transform their properties since 1983. With more than 40 years of experience, we’ve built our reputation on quality craftsmanship, honest communication, and personalized service. Every deck and porch we construct is thoughtfully planned to complement your home’s architecture, maximize functionality, and provide years of dependable performance.
You can trust our experienced team to deliver exceptional workmanship and dependable results.
To learn more, visit our comprehensive Deck & Porch Construction services and see how we can help with your 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.
When homeowners begin planning a deck or porch project, they often have questions about materials, timelines, maintenance, and overall value. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive from homeowners throughout Pinole and the Bay Area.
If you have additional questions about your specific project, the team at Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights is always available to provide personalized guidance. You can also learn more about our professional Deck & Porch Construction services and explore the many ways we help homeowners create beautiful, functional outdoor living spaces.
The right solution depends on the overall condition of your deck. While cosmetic issues such as faded finishes or worn surface boards may be addressed through resurfacing or repairs, more significant structural concerns often make replacement the better long-term investment.
During your consultation, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights will evaluate your existing deck, discuss your goals, and recommend the option that provides the best combination of safety, functionality, and value. We believe in providing honest recommendations rather than suggesting unnecessary work.
Yes. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we design and construct a wide range of custom outdoor living spaces for homeowners throughout Pinole. Whether you're looking to build a spacious backyard deck for entertaining, add a welcoming front porch to enhance your home's curb appeal, or create a fully customized outdoor retreat, our experienced team can bring your vision to life. Our services include custom backyard decks, front porches, covered porches, multi-level decks, deck replacements, deck expansions, deck resurfacing, structural deck framing, custom stairs and railings, pergolas, outdoor kitchens, built-in seating, and waterproof deck systems.
The timeline for a deck or porch construction project depends on several factors, including the size and complexity of the design, the condition and layout of your property, permit approval, material availability, and weather conditions during construction. Smaller, straightforward projects may be completed more quickly, while larger custom decks, multi-level designs, or projects with specialty features such as pergolas, outdoor kitchens, or covered porches may require additional planning and construction time.
Absolutely. Many homes throughout Pinole feature sloped lots or changing elevations, and these properties often benefit from custom deck designs. Multi-level decks and elevated structures can make excellent use of challenging terrain while creating beautiful outdoor living spaces with improved functionality and visual appeal.
We'll carefully evaluate your property to develop a design that works with your landscape.
Today's decks and porches can be customized to suit virtually any lifestyle, making it easy to create an outdoor living space that's both beautiful and functional. Depending on your goals, your new deck or porch can include features such as covered gathering areas for year-round comfort, pergolas that provide architectural interest and partial shade, outdoor kitchens for cooking and entertaining, built-in seating to maximize space, spacious dining areas, dedicated entertainment zones, multi-level layouts for sloped properties, decorative railings that complement your home's style, wide stairways for improved accessibility, and waterproof deck systems for enhanced durability and protection.
During the design process, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights will work closely with you to understand how you plan to use your outdoor space and recommend features that align with your lifestyle, budget, and long-term vision, creating a customized outdoor retreat your family can enjoy for years to come.
Yes. One of our priorities is designing decks and porches that feel like a natural extension of your home rather than an afterthought. We carefully consider your home's architectural style, existing exterior features, and overall layout when developing the design.
With more than 40 years of experience working on homes of varying ages and styles throughout the Bay Area, we understand how to create outdoor spaces that enhance both appearance and functionality.
Choosing the right contractor is one of the most important decisions you'll make when investing in a new deck or porch. For more than 40 years, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights has helped Bay Area homeowners create beautiful, durable outdoor living spaces through quality craftsmanship and dependable service. Every project is tailored to your home's layout, your vision, and your family's lifestyle, with careful attention to structural integrity and lasting performance.
From the initial consultation through permitting assistance, construction, and project completion, we provide honest recommendations, clear communication, and professional project management to ensure a smooth, stress-free experience from start to finish.
A professionally designed and well-constructed deck or porch can significantly enhance your home's curb appeal, outdoor living space, and overall marketability.
While every property's value is different, many homeowners view a new deck or porch as a long-term investment because it expands usable living space and improves everyday enjoyment of the home.
Beyond resale value, many families appreciate having a comfortable outdoor area where they can relax, entertain, and spend time together.