When’s the Right Time to Remodel After Buying a House?
The right time to remodel after buying a house depends on your goals, budget, and the condition of the property. Others rush into renovation projects…
Your garage is one of the most versatile spaces in your home, yet it’s often one of the most underused. What begins as a place to park vehicles can quickly become overcrowded with seasonal decorations, tools, sporting equipment, bicycles, and household storage. Over time, many homeowners find that their garage no longer supports their lifestyle, making it difficult to stay organized or use the space efficiently. A professionally planned garage remodel can transform this valuable space into a functional extension of your home, improving everyday convenience and increasing your property’s long-term value.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we have proudly served homeowners throughout the San Francisco Bay Area since 1983, delivering exceptional craftsmanship and dependable remodeling solutions backed by more than 40 years of experience. As licensed General and Electrical Contractors, we bring the knowledge, resources, and hands-on expertise needed to complete garage remodeling projects of all sizes and complexities. Whether you’re envisioning a highly organized storage system, a fully equipped workshop, a home gym, a modern laundry area, or a complete garage transformation, our team is committed to creating a space that is attractive, durable, and tailored to your family’s unique needs.
Unlike contractors who focus solely on cosmetic improvements, we approach garage remodeling as a complete construction project. We consider every detail, including structural integrity, electrical systems, insulation, lighting, ventilation, flooring, storage, and long-term durability. Our design-focused approach ensures your remodeled garage doesn’t simply look better, it performs better for years to come.
Whether your garage simply needs better organization or you’re planning a complete transformation into a multi-purpose living space, you can trust our experienced team to guide you from the initial consultation through the final walkthrough. We combine proven construction practices with modern design ideas to create garages that are functional, beautiful, and built around the way you live.
To learn more about the possibilities for your project, explore our comprehensive Garage Remodeling Services and see how our team can help transform your garage into one of the most valuable spaces in your home.
Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality. Schedule A Free Estimate.
If your garage has become little more than a place to store clutter, you’re not alone. Many Alameda homeowners find that their garage no longer supports their family’s changing needs. As lifestyles evolve, garages often become overcrowded with tools, sports equipment, gardening supplies, holiday decorations, and household overflow, leaving little room for parking vehicles or enjoying the space. Instead of allowing one of your home’s largest areas to go underused, a professional garage remodel can unlock its full potential while making your home more comfortable, organized, and functional.
Garage remodeling is one of the most practical ways to improve your home because it makes better use of space you already have. Rather than investing in a costly home addition, remodeling your garage allows you to create a customized environment that fits your daily routine. Whether you envision a clean and organized storage solution, a workshop for hobbies, a dedicated fitness room, a home office, a utility area, or a flexible multi-purpose space, thoughtful remodeling can dramatically improve the way your home works for you.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we understand that no two homeowners have the same goals. That’s why every garage remodeling project begins with a detailed consultation to understand how you want to use the space both today and in the future. We carefully evaluate your garage’s existing condition, identify opportunities for improvement, and develop a remodeling plan that balances functionality, aesthetics, and long-term value.
Our experience remodeling homes throughout Alameda also means we understand the unique characteristics of local properties. Historic homes may require careful planning to preserve their original charm, while newer homes often benefit from modern storage systems, smart technology, and energy-efficient upgrades. We customize every garage remodel to complement your home’s architecture while delivering practical improvements you’ll appreciate every day.
Whether your goal is to improve storage, increase functionality, create a specialized workspace, or completely reinvent how your garage serves your family, our experienced team is here to help bring your vision to life.
To learn more about the possibilities for your project, explore our comprehensive Garage Remodeling Services and see how our team can help transform your garage into one of the most valuable spaces in your home.
Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality. Schedule A Free Estimate.
Choosing the right contractor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during any remodeling project. Garage remodeling often involves multiple trades, careful planning, and strict attention to building standards. You need a contractor with experience managing every detail while keeping your project on schedule.
Whether you’re considering additional remodeling, skylight installation, structural improvements, or custom carpentry later on, you’ll already have a trusted contractor familiar with your home.
Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality. Schedule A Free Estimate.
Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality.
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights is certified and accredited by the best manufacturers in the industry. From Grip-Tite Foundation Systems, to James Hardie Siding, to VELUX Skylights, you can be sure to get the highest quality products for whatever your project.
Serving the San Francisco Bay Area for over 40 years with quality general contracting, home remodeling, and skylight installation means you'll get the benefits of our expertise for every project.
Maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction, we are proud to have provided our customers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area with quality construction and home improvement services for 40 years. With half of our new clients coming to us from referrals, it’s no secret that our customers/friends are truly pleased with the work we do.
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, Inc. is a longstanding partnership of 40 years between Archie Mares, Dennis Dow and hundreds of great customers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. We are a general contractor, building custom homes, additions, home remodeling, skylights, retaining wall construction and commercial remodeling.
Maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction, we are proud to have provided our customers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area with quality construction and home improvement services for 40 years. With half of our new clients coming to us from referrals, it’s no secret that our customers/friends are truly pleased with the work we do.
Quality and service come first. We approach every job, big or small, with the same care and attention to detail we’d give our own homes. Our team combines time-tested building practices with modern innovation to deliver results that stand the test of time.
Ready to start your next project? Whether you’re planning a home remodel, skylight installation, or foundation repair, our team is here to help.
Reach out to us for a free consultation. We’ll listen, offer expert guidance, and provide a detailed estimate tailored to your goals.
To enhance the lives of Bay Area homeowners through expert construction, thoughtful design, and dependable service. For over 40 years, our mission has remained simple: build with integrity, serve with pride, and create spaces our clients love to live in.
We believe in integrity, craftsmanship, and lasting relationships. Every project is built on honesty, transparency, and respect - for our clients, our partners, and the homes we’re entrusted to improve.
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights 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!
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Every garage serves a different purpose, which is why we offer complete remodeling solutions tailored to your home’s layout and your family’s needs. Whether you’re making minor improvements or planning a full transformation, our experienced team delivers quality craftsmanship from concept through completion.
Our comprehensive garage remodeling services include:
Whether you’re planning a simple refresh or a complete transformation, our experienced professionals provide thoughtful recommendations tailored to your home.
To learn more about the possibilities for your project, explore our comprehensive Garage Remodeling Services and see how our team can help transform your garage into one of the most valuable spaces in your home.
Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality. Schedule A Free Estimate.
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights proudly provides garage remodeling services throughout Alameda. Our familiarity with the city’s diverse neighborhoods allows us to recommend remodeling solutions that complement each home’s age, style, and unique characteristics.
No matter where you’re located in Alameda, our experienced remodeling professionals are ready to help transform your garage into a space that better serves your family.
Every garage tells a different story. Some simply need better organization, while others require significant structural improvements before they can become functional living spaces. With decades of experience serving Bay Area homeowners, we’ve encountered and successfully addressed a wide variety of garage remodeling challenges.
Some of the most common issues we help homeowners solve include:
No matter the condition of your existing garage, our experienced team develops practical remodeling solutions that combine quality craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and long-lasting performance.
To learn more about the possibilities for your project, explore our comprehensive Garage Remodeling Services and see how our team can help transform your garage into one of the most valuable spaces in your home.
Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality. Schedule A Free Estimate.
Since 1983, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights has helped homeowners throughout Alameda and the greater San Francisco Bay Area transform their homes with expert craftsmanship and dependable service. Backed by more than 40 years of experience, we take a personalized approach to every garage remodeling project, creating functional, durable spaces tailored to your needs, budget, and lifestyle.
From the initial consultation through the final walkthrough, our experienced team manages every stage of the remodeling process with careful planning, skilled workmanship, and clear communication. Whether you’re upgrading storage, converting your garage into a more versatile living space, or completing a full renovation, we deliver customized solutions built to last.
Homeowners throughout Alameda choose us because we provide:
For more than four decades, our mission has been to enhance Bay Area homes through reliable construction, exceptional service, and garage remodeling solutions that add lasting value and everyday functionality. Whether you’re planning a simple upgrade or a complete transformation, you can trust our experienced team to bring your vision to life.
If your garage feels cluttered, outdated, or underused, taking the right approach early can help ensure a smoother remodeling experience and better long-term results.
To learn more about the possibilities for your project, explore our comprehensive Garage Remodeling Services and see how our team can help transform your garage into one of the most valuable spaces in your home.
Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality. Schedule A Free Estimate.
For many homeowners, garage remodeling is an excellent investment because it improves daily functionality while enhancing the overall appeal and usability of the home. Well-planned improvements can also contribute to long-term property value.
We provide comprehensive garage remodeling services, including custom storage, cabinetry, insulation, drywall, flooring, lighting upgrades, electrical improvements, workshops, home gyms, office spaces, laundry areas, garage door improvements, structural repairs, and complete garage renovations.
Yes. Many Alameda homes have older garages that benefit from structural updates, electrical improvements, insulation, and modern finishes. Our team has extensive experience remodeling garages of varying ages and architectural styles.
Absolutely. We design and install custom cabinets, shelving, overhead storage systems, workbenches, and organization solutions tailored to your specific needs and available space.
Yes. Epoxy flooring is one of the most popular garage upgrades because it provides a durable, low-maintenance surface that resists stains, moisture, and everyday wear while improving the overall appearance of the garage.
Yes. Many homeowners remodel their garages into dedicated workout spaces, workshops, hobby rooms, or multipurpose areas. We'll help design a layout that supports your intended use while ensuring the space remains functional and comfortable.
Yes. As a licensed Electrical Contractor, we can upgrade lighting, add outlets, install dedicated circuits, prepare for EV chargers, and complete other electrical improvements as part of your remodeling project.
Every project is different. The timeline depends on the scope of work, materials selected, and any structural improvements involved. During your consultation, we'll provide a realistic project schedule based on your specific remodeling goals.
Yes. We work closely with homeowners throughout the planning stage, offering recommendations that maximize functionality, improve organization, and complement the style of the home while staying within budget.
With more than 40 years of Bay Area construction experience, dual General and Electrical Contractor licensing, skilled craftsmanship, and a commitment to honest communication and quality workmanship, we're dedicated to delivering garage remodeling solutions that are built to last.
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights is proud to provide professional garage remodeling services throughout Alameda and neighboring East Bay communities. Our familiarity with local homes, architectural styles, and construction requirements allows us to deliver remodeling solutions that are both practical and built to complement the character of the surrounding neighborhoods.
In addition to serving homeowners across Alameda, we also work in nearby communities throughout the East Bay and San Francisco Bay Area. Whether your home is located near the waterfront, in an established residential neighborhood, or in a newer development, our experienced team is ready to help create a garage that better fits your lifestyle.
No matter the size or complexity of your project, you can count on the same honest guidance, dependable service, and quality craftsmanship that have defined our company for over four decades.
To learn more about the possibilities for your project, explore our comprehensive Garage Remodeling Services and see how our team can help transform your garage into one of the most valuable spaces in your home.
Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality. Schedule A Free Estimate.
Your garage should be more than a place to store boxes or park vehicles, but it should be a space that supports your everyday life. Whether you’re looking to improve organization, create a workshop, add a home gym, upgrade electrical systems, install custom storage, or completely transform your garage, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights has the experience and expertise to bring your vision to life.
For more than 40 years, we’ve proudly helped Bay Area homeowners create beautiful, functional spaces through expert craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and dependable construction services. Every garage remodeling project is approached with care, precision, and a commitment to delivering results that stand the test of time.
If you’re ready to maximize the potential of your garage, our team is here to help from the initial consultation through the final walkthrough.
To learn more about the possibilities for your project, explore our comprehensive Garage Remodeling Services and see how our team can help transform your garage into one of the most valuable spaces in your home.
Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality. Schedule A Free Estimate.