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. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet morning coffee, hosting family barbecues, or simply taking in Orinda’s beautiful hillsides, a professionally built deck or porch creates a comfortable place to relax while adding lasting value to your property.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we’ve been helping Bay Area homeowners transform their homes since 1983. With more than 40 years of construction experience, we specialize in designing and building custom decks and porches that combine exceptional craftsmanship, structural integrity, and timeless curb appeal. Every outdoor living project is thoughtfully planned to complement your home’s architecture while providing the durability needed for Northern California’s year-round climate.
Whether you’re envisioning a spacious backyard deck for entertaining, an elegant front porch that creates a warm first impression, or a covered outdoor retreat for year-round enjoyment, our experienced team delivers personalized solutions tailored to your goals. We understand that every home is different, which is why we never rely on one-size-fits-all designs. Instead, we work closely with you to create an outdoor space that enhances both your lifestyle and your property’s character.
Because Orinda features rolling hills, mature oak trees, larger residential lots, and a variety of architectural styles, every deck or porch must be carefully designed to work with the property’s existing landscape. Sloped lots may require elevated framing, reinforced foundations, or custom stair systems, while flatter properties often allow for expansive entertainment spaces that seamlessly connect indoor and outdoor living. Our decades of Bay Area experience allow us to adapt every design to the unique conditions of your home while ensuring all construction complies with applicable local building requirements.
When you partner with Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, you’re choosing a contractor known for honest communication, dependable craftsmanship, and meticulous attention to detail. From the initial consultation through the final walkthrough, our goal is to make the construction process straightforward while delivering an outdoor living space your family will enjoy for decades.
If you’re looking for additional information about our outdoor construction expertise, explore our Deck & Porch Construction services to learn more about the custom solutions we provide throughout the Bay Area.
Ready to create the outdoor space you’ve always wanted? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40+ years of Bay Area construction expertise transform your vision into a beautifully crafted deck or porch that’s built to last. SCHEDULE A FREE ESTIMATE
A custom deck or porch is one of the most valuable improvements you can make to your home. In Orinda, where homeowners enjoy mild weather, scenic surroundings, and a strong appreciation for outdoor living, a thoughtfully designed outdoor space quickly becomes one of the most-used areas of the property.
Whether you’re looking to entertain guests, spend more quality time with family, increase your home’s resale value, or simply enjoy the beauty of your backyard, investing in professional deck and porch construction creates lasting benefits that extend well beyond aesthetics.
Every homeowner has a different vision. Some imagine a spacious deck overlooking the hills where they can host gatherings. Others want a charming front porch that creates a welcoming entrance, while many homeowners are looking for a covered outdoor living area that provides shade during warm afternoons and protection during the rainy season.
Regardless of your goals, successful deck construction begins long before the first board is installed.
Our process starts with understanding how you want to use the space. We consider your home’s architecture, property layout, elevation changes, sun exposure, existing landscaping, and long-term plans to develop a custom solution that feels like a natural extension of your home and not an afterthought.
Choosing the right contractor is equally important. A beautiful deck begins with quality structural framing, proper footings, accurate measurements, and careful installation techniques. Attention to these details ensures your new outdoor living space remains safe, stable, and attractive for years to come.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, our experience as a full-service general contractor means we understand every aspect of residential construction, not just the visible finishes. We combine thoughtful design, proven building methods, premium materials, and dependable project management to create outdoor spaces that are both functional and built to stand the test of time.
If you’re considering a custom deck, front porch, covered porch, or outdoor living project, our team is here to help you explore your options and develop a solution tailored to your home and lifestyle. Learn more about our comprehensive Deck & Porch Construction services and how we help Bay Area homeowners create beautiful outdoor spaces that complement their homes.
Ready to bring your vision to life? Reach out to Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our experienced team design and build a custom deck or porch that enhances the beauty, comfort, and value of your Orinda home. SCHEDULE A FREE ESTIMATE
Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality.
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights is certified and accredited by the best manufacturers in the industry. From Grip-Tite Foundation Systems, to James Hardie Siding, to VELUX Skylights, you can be sure to get the highest quality products for whatever your project.
Serving the San Francisco Bay Area for over 40 years with quality general contracting, home remodeling, and skylight installation means you'll get the benefits of our expertise for every project.
Maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction, we are proud to have provided our customers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area with quality construction and home improvement services for 40 years. With half of our new clients coming to us from referrals, it’s no secret that our customers/friends are truly pleased with the work we do.
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, Inc. is a longstanding partnership of 40 years between Archie Mares, Dennis Dow and hundreds of great customers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. We are a general contractor, building custom homes, additions, home remodeling, skylights, retaining wall construction and commercial remodeling.
Maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction, we are proud to have provided our customers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area with quality construction and home improvement services for 40 years. With half of our new clients coming to us from referrals, it’s no secret that our customers/friends are truly pleased with the work we do.
Building a new deck or porch is more than simply adding outdoor square footage; it is an investment in your home’s beauty, functionality, and long-term value. The contractor you choose plays a major role in determining whether that investment delivers lasting results. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we’ve spent more than four decades helping Bay Area homeowners create outdoor living spaces that combine thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship, and dependable construction.
Unlike contractors who focus on only one aspect of construction, we bring extensive experience as a full-service general contractor. This broader knowledge allows us to understand how your new deck or porch integrates with your home’s structure, foundation, drainage, roofing, siding, and overall architectural design. The result is an outdoor space that looks cohesive, performs reliably, and complements the character of your property.
If you’d like to learn more about our experience designing and building outdoor living spaces, explore our Deck & Porch Construction services, and additional information about the custom solutions we provide throughout the Bay Area.
Whether your vision includes a classic cedar front porch, a multi-level composite entertainment deck, or a custom outdoor retreat overlooking the hills of Orinda, our experienced team is ready to help bring that vision to life.
Ready to transform your outdoor living space? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40+ years of Bay Area construction expertise help you create a beautiful custom deck or porch designed for lasting enjoyment. SCHEDULE A FREE ESTIMATE.
Every homeowner has a different vision for their outdoor living space. Some want a spacious backyard deck where family and friends can gather throughout the year, while others dream of a charming front porch that creates a warm first impression. Whatever your goals may be, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights provides custom deck and porch construction solutions that combine thoughtful design, premium materials, and expert craftsmanship.
Whether your project involves creating an entirely new outdoor entertainment area or replacing an aging structure, we tailor every solution to your property’s layout, your family’s lifestyle, and your long-term goals.
If you’re interested in learning more about our approach to outdoor living projects, visit our Deck & Porch Construction services to explore how we help homeowners throughout the Bay Area create exceptional outdoor spaces.
To learn more about our complete outdoor construction capabilities, visit our Deck & Porch Construction service page and see how Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights helps Bay Area homeowners transform their outdoor living spaces.
Ready to enjoy a custom-built deck or porch designed specifically for your home? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40+ years of Bay Area expertise bring your outdoor living vision to life. SCHEDULE A FREE ESTIMATE.
Orinda is known for its scenic landscapes, spacious residential lots, and distinctive homes that range from charming mid-century residences to custom estates. Every property presents unique opportunities and challenges, from sloped terrain and elevated views to mature landscaping and architectural styles that deserve thoughtful design. Our team carefully plans every project to ensure your new deck or porch enhances your home’s character while maximizing your outdoor living experience.
Whether you’re envisioning a classic redwood deck overlooking the hills, a low-maintenance composite entertainment space, or a welcoming front porch that enhances curb appeal, we tailor every project to your home’s unique setting.
If you’d like to learn more about our custom outdoor living solutions, visit our Deck & Porch Construction service page to see how we help homeowners throughout the Bay Area transform their outdoor spaces.
Our experience throughout the East Bay allows us to design outdoor living spaces that work with these site conditions rather than against them. From carefully planned framing systems on sloped lots to selecting materials that complement surrounding architecture, every decision is made with your property’s long-term beauty and performance in mind.
As a full-service general contractor, we take a comprehensive approach to every project, ensuring your deck or porch integrates seamlessly with the rest of your home. To learn more about our complete outdoor construction capabilities, explore our Deck & Porch Construction services.
Ready to enhance your Orinda home with a custom deck or porch? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40+ years of Bay Area construction experience help create an outdoor living space you’ll enjoy for decades. SCHEDULE A FREE ESTIMATE.
A well-built deck or porch should provide years of safe, enjoyable outdoor living. Even the highest-quality structures eventually experience wear due to age, weather exposure, moisture, and everyday use. In Orinda, where homes often feature mature landscaping, sloped lots, and outdoor spaces enjoyed, it’s important to recognize the early signs of deterioration before they develop into larger structural concerns.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we help homeowners identify common deck and porch issues while providing expert construction solutions tailored to the unique needs of each property. Whether your existing structure needs to be replaced or you’re planning a completely new outdoor living area, our experienced team focuses on delivering long-lasting craftsmanship that enhances both safety and curb appeal.
If you’re considering upgrading or replacing your current outdoor space, learn more about our Deck & Porch Construction services and how we create custom outdoor living environments throughout the Bay Area.
To explore the full range of outdoor living solutions we provide, visit our Deck & Porch Construction service page and learn how our experienced team helps Bay Area homeowners create beautiful, durable outdoor spaces.
Ready to replace an aging deck or build the custom porch you’ve always envisioned? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40+ years of Bay Area construction expertise create an outdoor living space built for lasting beauty, comfort, and performance. SCHEDULE A FREE ESTIMATE.
Quality and service come first. We approach every job, big or small, with the same care and attention to detail we’d give our own homes. Our team combines time-tested building practices with modern innovation to deliver results that stand the test of time.
Ready to start your next project? Whether you’re planning a home remodel, skylight installation, or foundation repair, our team is here to help.
Reach out to us for a free consultation. We’ll listen, offer expert guidance, and provide a detailed estimate tailored to your goals.
To enhance the lives of Bay Area homeowners through expert construction, thoughtful design, and dependable service. For over 40 years, our mission has remained simple: build with integrity, serve with pride, and create spaces our clients love to live in.
We believe in integrity, craftsmanship, and lasting relationships. Every project is built on honesty, transparency, and respect - for our clients, our partners, and the homes we’re entrusted to improve.
Choosing a contractor for your deck or porch project is about more than finding someone who can build a structure; it’s about partnering with a team that understands quality construction, respects your home, and is committed to delivering results that stand the test of time. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we’ve proudly served homeowners throughout Orinda and the greater San Francisco Bay Area since 1983, building our reputation on integrity, craftsmanship, and dependable service.
For more than four decades, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners improve their properties through thoughtful construction, remodeling, structural upgrades, and custom outdoor living projects. That extensive experience allows us to approach every deck and porch with confidence, whether we’re building a simple front porch, an expansive backyard entertainment deck, or a custom outdoor retreat on a challenging hillside property.
If you’d like to explore our complete outdoor living capabilities, visit our Deck & Porch Construction service page to learn how we help Bay Area homeowners create beautiful and functional outdoor spaces.
Whether you’re replacing an aging deck, constructing a welcoming front porch, or creating a completely new outdoor entertainment area, our experienced team is ready to help you bring your ideas to life.
To learn more about our custom outdoor living solutions, visit our Deck & Porch Construction service page.
Ready to invest in a deck or porch that’s built with quality, integrity, and more than 40 years of Bay Area expertise? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today to discuss your project and receive personalized guidance from our experienced team. SCHEDULE A FREE ESTIMATE.
Planning a new deck or porch is an exciting opportunity to improve the way you enjoy your home, but achieving the best results requires careful planning before construction begins. Every property has unique characteristics, and making informed decisions early in the process helps ensure your finished outdoor living space is beautiful, functional, and built to last.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we’ve helped Bay Area homeowners plan and build custom outdoor living spaces for more than 40 years. During that time, we’ve found that the most successful projects all begin with a clear understanding of the homeowner’s goals, thoughtful design, and quality construction practices.
If you’re considering adding a custom deck or porch to your Orinda property, the following steps can help you prepare for a smooth and successful project.
To learn more about the outdoor living solutions we offer, visit our Deck & Porch Construction service page, where you’ll find additional information about our custom construction services throughout the Bay Area.
Popular choices include:
If you’re ready to begin planning your custom outdoor living project, explore our Deck & Porch Construction service page to learn more about our capabilities and see how we can help transform your property.
Ready to bring your outdoor living vision to life? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40+ years of Bay Area expertise help you design and build a custom deck or porch that’s tailored to your home, your lifestyle, and your future. SCHEDULE A FREE ESTIMATE.
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights installed a large Velux skylight for me in August 2017. The entire experience was wonderful and the skylight is beautiful, both functionally and aesthetically. Janet made sure the work was scheduled to be completed before a trip I had planned. Jimmy measured carefully when he quoted the work and even accommodated a last minute change on the location when he arrived to do the work. They protected my new floors and were careful to keep dust to a minimum. Archie came by to ensure that all was going smoothly. Freddy helped matched the stain on my nearly 70 year old tongue and grove ceiling that really took some effort and he even matched some a few small spots that a previous contractor had sanded and removed the original stain. EVERYONE was cheerful and knowledgeable. Now, my little mid century house has emerged into the light!
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights replaced two aging skylights in our bedroom and installed automatic blinds on four skylights. This was not an easy job, since our bedroom has very very high cathedral ceilings. In fact, one other skylight installer refused to do the job altogether, and a second made a bid that was almost twice as expensive as Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights. Janet Mares, who was our main contact for the job, was a pleasure to work with. Her son, Jimmy, who led the installation, was fearless climbing the ceiling, and he eally knew his stuff. We’re thrilled with our new and improved skylights, and we appreciate Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights’ solid, reasonably priced, work. Thanks guys!
I’ve had Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights install 3 sun tunnels in my home and most recently, 2 skylights in my garage/art studio. I couldn’t be more satisfied with the quality of their work and professionalism! All my communications with their office and installers have been extremely pleasant. I would use them again (and again) and highly recommend them to anyone looking to install Velux skylights/sun tunnels in their home!
Being a new homeowner, i really did my research before having someone come out and give me a quote on a skylight. You never know what to believe when you read yelp reviews. So, i went ahead and had Jimmy from mares and dow come out and give me an estimate. He was right on time, came out and measured and was very professional while he was here. Janet called me a few days later and sent me over an estimate. I went them them and couldn’t be happier. It arrived in the time frame she had told me, and they were out that week. The workers came out on time, and were very friendly and professional. Dennis ( one of the owners) came out as well and checked on the job. The went above and beyond with their work. The skylight looks beautiful! Night and day from the old one. If you are wanting a skylight, i strongly reccomend going with mare and dow
We had Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights install a Velux skylight in our new master bathroom. The space was small and dark, so Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights suggested a big skylight to add in lots of natural light. They built in a double crown molding to beautifully frame the skylight, and now the space is open and airy with wonderful natural light. We can open the skylight during warm months to let in fresh air. It was a superb addition to our bathroom renovation and a great suggestion from Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights. They did a fantastic job and were great to work with! Thanks guys!
Key Takeaways Homeowners must do their homework, and ask their contractors the right questions to confirm that they’re not working with someone who’s inexperienced, unlicensed…
Key Takeaways A new deck installation before you sell your home can really add to the value and appeal of your home, particularly when your…
Key Takeaways Check any deck installer’s credentials, licensing and insurance to protect yourself from potential risk and to comply with local regulations. Evaluate the contractor’s…
For more than 40 years, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights has proudly served homeowners throughout Orinda and the greater East Bay with high-quality deck and porch construction, home remodeling, general contracting, and structural improvement services. Since 1983, we’ve been committed to helping homeowners create beautiful, functional, and long-lasting spaces that enhance the way they live while preserving the character and integrity of their homes.
Whether you’re planning a brand-new backyard deck, replacing an aging porch, or creating a custom outdoor living area designed for entertaining, our experienced team delivers personalized solutions built around your property, your goals, and your budget.
In addition to Orinda, we proudly provide deck and porch construction services to homeowners throughout nearby East Bay communities, including:
No matter where you’re located within our service area, you can expect the same personalized attention, thoughtful design, premium materials, and quality craftsmanship that have earned the trust of homeowners throughout the Bay Area for over 40 years.
Whether your home sits on a hillside overlooking the East Bay, within one of Orinda’s established neighborhoods, or in a nearby community, we’re ready to help you create an outdoor living space you’ll enjoy for many years to come.
Your outdoor living space should be more than just an extension of your home, but it should be a place where you can relax, entertain, and enjoy time with family and friends for years to come. Whether you’re envisioning a spacious backyard deck, a welcoming front porch, a covered outdoor retreat, or a complete replacement for an aging structure, choosing the right contractor makes all the difference.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we’ve been helping Bay Area homeowners bring their ideas to life since 1983. With more than 40 years of experience, we combine thoughtful design, premium materials, and expert craftsmanship to create custom decks and porches that are built for lasting beauty, safety, and performance. Every project is tailored to your home’s architecture, your property’s unique characteristics, and the way you want to enjoy your outdoor space.
If you’re exploring ideas for your project, visit our Deck & Porch Construction service page to learn more about our design approach, construction process, and the wide range of outdoor living solutions we provide throughout the Bay Area.
Whether you’re replacing an outdated deck, expanding your outdoor entertaining area, or building your dream front porch from the ground up, you can feel confident knowing your project is backed by decades of Bay Area construction expertise.
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 Alameda 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.
A custom deck or porch is one of the most practical ways to expand your home's usable living space while improving its appearance and overall value. Instead of limiting family activities to the interior of your home, a professionally designed outdoor living area provides additional space for entertaining, dining, relaxing, and enjoying Orinda's pleasant climate throughout much of the year.
Beyond creating a beautiful place to spend time, a well-built deck or porch enhances curb appeal, improves the connection between your indoor and outdoor spaces, and can increase the long-term appeal of your property. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, every project is thoughtfully designed to complement your home's architecture while delivering lasting durability and functionality.
We provide fully customized deck and porch construction solutions designed around your property's layout and your family's lifestyle. Our services include custom backyard decks, front porches, covered porches, wraparound porches, elevated hillside decks, multi-level decks, outdoor entertainment areas, stair systems, and custom railing installations.
Because every home is different, we don't rely on pre-designed layouts. Instead, we evaluate your home's architecture, outdoor space, and long-term goals before creating a design that feels like a natural extension of your property. Whether you're looking for a cozy front porch or an expansive backyard entertainment area, our experienced team can create a solution tailored specifically to your needs.
The best decking material depends on your desired appearance, maintenance preferences, budget, and long-term goals.
Natural wood options such as redwood and cedar remain popular because of their timeless beauty and warm appearance. Pressure-treated lumber provides an economical solution with dependable structural performance. For homeowners seeking low-maintenance alternatives, composite decking products like Trex®, TimberTech®, and Fiberon® offer excellent resistance to fading, moisture, rot, splintering, and insect damage. PVC decking is another premium option known for its durability and minimal maintenance requirements.
During your consultation, we'll explain the advantages of each material and help you choose the option that best fits your home's style and your lifestyle.
Neither option is universally better but depends on your priorities. Composite decking is an excellent choice for homeowners who want minimal maintenance and long-term durability. Unlike natural wood, composite boards generally don't require regular staining or sealing, and they're highly resistant to moisture, insects, fading, and splintering.
Natural wood, including redwood and cedar, continues to be a favorite among homeowners who appreciate its authentic appearance and classic character. While wood requires more routine maintenance to preserve its beauty, many homeowners feel the timeless aesthetic is well worth the investment.
Yes. Many homes throughout Orinda are situated on sloped or uneven terrain, and our team has extensive experience designing and constructing decks that accommodate these unique site conditions.
Building on a hillside often requires specialized planning, reinforced structural framing, carefully designed support systems, and customized stair layouts. We carefully evaluate your property's elevation, drainage, accessibility, and surrounding landscape before developing a construction plan that provides both structural integrity and outstanding visual appeal.
Project timelines vary depending on the size, complexity, material selection, weather conditions, and overall scope of work.
A smaller front porch may require less time than a large multi-level entertainment deck with custom stairs, integrated railings, and specialty features. During your consultation, we'll discuss your project goals, evaluate your property, and provide a realistic timeline based on your specific design.
Throughout construction, we maintain clear communication so you always understand the stage your project has reached and what to expect next.
Yes. Every deck and porch we construct is designed with structural integrity, safety, and long-term performance in mind. Our team follows established construction standards and builds projects that comply with applicable local building requirements.
From foundation support and framing to stair systems, guardrails, and structural connections, every component is carefully planned and constructed to help ensure a durable, dependable outdoor living space that you can enjoy with confidence for years to come.
Absolutely. Many homeowners contact us because their existing deck has reached the end of its useful life.
Common signs that replacement may be appropriate include rotting wood, loose railings, unstable stairs, cracked or warped decking boards, rusted hardware, excessive movement, or visible structural deterioration. Replacing an older deck provides an opportunity to improve safety, upgrade to modern low-maintenance materials, expand the layout, and enhance the overall appearance of your outdoor living space.
If you're unsure whether your existing deck should be repaired or replaced, our experienced team can evaluate the structure and recommend the most practical long-term solution.
Choosing a contractor is one of the most important decisions you'll make during any home improvement project.
Homeowners throughout Orinda and the Bay Area continue to choose Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights because of our commitment to quality craftsmanship, honest communication, and personalized service. Since 1983, we've helped homeowners improve their properties through carefully planned construction projects that combine thoughtful design with durable building practices.
Getting started is simple. The first step is scheduling a consultation with our experienced team. During this meeting, we'll discuss your goals, evaluate your property, review design ideas, explain available materials, and answer any questions you may have. We'll also provide expert recommendations based on your home's layout, architectural style, and the way you plan to use your new outdoor living space.
Whether you're interested in a traditional redwood deck, a modern composite entertainment area, or a welcoming covered front porch, we'll help you develop a solution that's tailored to your home and built for long-term enjoyment.