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…
Home remodeling in Moraga, CA, is about creating a space that feels comfortable, efficient, and easy to maintain. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we bring over 40 years of experience helping homeowners improve their homes with practical, well-executed renovations.
We specialize in kitchen remodels, bathroom upgrades, home additions, and full-home renovations that focus on improving layout, usability, and long-term durability. Our approach is centered on clean design, thoughtful planning, and reliable construction.
Whether you’re updating a single space or planning a larger remodel, we deliver solutions that are straightforward, functional, and built to last.
In Moraga, home remodeling is less about dramatic transformation and more about making your home work better—day in and day out. That requires a contractor who can plan clearly, execute efficiently, and deliver results without unnecessary complications.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we bring over 40 years of experience to projects that prioritize usability, durability, and clean design. Our focus is on identifying what actually needs to change—whether it’s layout flow, outdated finishes, or inefficient use of space—and improving it in a way that feels natural and lasting.
We don’t overcomplicate projects. We build them correctly, manage them carefully, and deliver results that hold up over time.
As a home remodeling contractor serving Moraga, CA, we work with homeowners who want straightforward, well-executed improvements that make their homes more functional and easier to maintain. Our experience in the area allows us to deliver remodeling solutions that are practical, efficient, and aligned with the way people actually live in their homes.
We also serve nearby Lamorinda communities, including Orinda and Lafayette, where homes often share similar layouts, design styles, and renovation needs. This allows us to apply consistent, proven approaches across projects while still adapting to each home’s specific structure and goals.
Whether you’re planning a kitchen update, bathroom renovation, or a full-home remodel, we focus on delivering clear planning, reliable execution, and results that hold up over time.
Need an estimate? Want to learn more about why we might be the best home remodeling contractors to deal with? We would be happy to help you learn more about our company, our philosophy, and answer questions about timing, pricing, and similar projects to your remodeling project. Call now and book an appointment.
Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality.
We update kitchens to improve flow, simplify layout, and make everyday use more efficient. Our approach focuses on better organization, practical storage, and materials that are easy to maintain.
Our bathroom remodeling services prioritize clean design, efficient layouts, and durable finishes—creating spaces that are simple, functional, and built for daily use.
We help homeowners improve overall layout and usability by updating outdated areas and creating more cohesive living spaces that are easier to live in and maintain.
When additional space is needed, we design and build additions that integrate seamlessly with your home while improving comfort and functionality.
Many homes benefit from small but impactful layout changes. We focus on improving flow, reducing wasted space, and creating more usable environments without unnecessary complexity.
Home remodeling in Moraga works best when the process is clear, the work is consistent, and the results hold up over time.
Since 1983, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights has proudly served the East Bay with dependable, high-quality residential remodeling. Our decades of experience mean we’ve seen nearly every type of home, layout, and construction challenge—especially in cities like Moraga with a mix of older properties and newer builds. We understand local permitting, neighborhood styles, and homeowner expectations. This experience allows us to anticipate issues before they arise and deliver solutions that stand the test of time.
You deserve peace of mind when hiring a contractor. Our team is fully licensed in the state of California, bonded for your financial protection, and insured to cover every aspect of your project. We follow strict building codes, local safety requirements, and industry best practices to ensure that every project is done right, legally, and safely. When you hire Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, you’re working with professionals who stand behind their work.
Why juggle designers, architects, and contractors when you can work with one team from start to finish? Our design-build model means we handle every stage of your remodel—planning, permitting, designing, and building—under one roof. This integrated process reduces miscommunication, cuts down on delays, and helps control your budget. You’ll have a single point of contact throughout your entire project, simplifying the process and improving your experience.
We’re proud to be certified installers for top-tier brands like James Hardie siding, Grip-Tite foundation systems, and VELUX skylights. These certifications mean we meet rigorous training and installation standards, giving you added confidence in our workmanship. You’ll also benefit from manufacturer-backed warranties and the latest product innovations when you work with a certified contractor like us.
As a Bay Area company, we’re committed to sustainable practices that reduce environmental impact and support long-term efficiency. Whether we’re installing energy-efficient windows, using durable fiber cement siding, or upgrading insulation during a remodel, our team looks for ways to make your home greener and more cost-effective. Sustainability isn’t just a trend—it’s part of our core values.
Trust is everything in our industry. That’s why we’re proud that more than half of our new clients come to us through referrals from satisfied homeowners. Our clients know we show up when we say we will, we communicate clearly, and we treat their homes with respect. When neighbors in Moraga recommend us to friends and family, we know we’ve done our job well. That reputation is what drives us, and we work hard every day to earn it.
Our home remodeling projects in Moraga, CA, focus on improving how homes function day to day while maintaining a clean, cohesive look. We work with homeowners to update outdated spaces, refine layouts, and create environments that are easier to live in and maintain.
Each project reflects a straightforward approach—identify what needs to improve, plan it carefully, and execute it cleanly. The result is a home that feels more functional, more comfortable, and better suited to everyday use.
We’ve updated kitchens to improve layout flow, simplify storage, and create more efficient, easy-to-use spaces without unnecessary complexity.
Our bathroom remodeling work focuses on clean finishes, durable materials, and layouts that support daily use with minimal maintenance.
We’ve completed full-home renovations that improve overall usability, modernize outdated areas, and create more cohesive living environments.
View our portfolio of home remodeling projects in Moraga, CA, to see examples of our completed work.
Home remodeling in Moraga works best when the process is clear, organized, and easy to follow. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we use a straightforward approach designed to keep your project moving efficiently while avoiding unnecessary complications.
We start by understanding your goals and evaluating your space. This allows us to define a clear scope focused on practical improvements that make sense for your home.
We develop a plan that outlines layout updates, materials, and project details—ensuring everything is aligned before construction begins.
Our team manages construction with a focus on steady progress, clean execution, and consistent communication throughout the project.
We complete the project with a detailed walkthrough, making sure everything is finished properly and meets expectations.
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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Home remodeling is a major investment, and Moraga homeowners often have important questions before starting the process. To help you plan with confidence, we’ve answered the most common questions we hear from homeowners in Moraga, CA, when working with Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights. These FAQs provide a clear understanding of what to expect, how our team works locally, and how we help create homes that are more functional, comfortable, and built to last.
We provide full-service home remodeling in Moraga, including kitchen and bathroom remodels, whole-home renovations, room additions, garage conversions, siding upgrades, skylight installations, and structural improvements.
Yes. Moraga features many hillside and higher-end homes that require careful planning and specialized construction techniques. We’re experienced in enhancing these homes’ functionality and value while preserving architectural character.
Absolutely. Our design-build approach allows us to manage your project from design and planning through permitting and construction, ensuring a smooth and coordinated remodeling experience.
Costs vary depending on project scope, materials, and the condition of the home. Moraga remodeling projects can range from smaller updates to full-home renovations. We provide transparent, detailed estimates so you know what to expect upfront.
Project timelines depend on the size and complexity of the remodel. Smaller projects may take a few weeks, while larger renovations or additions may take several months. We provide a clear project schedule before construction begins.
Yes. We manage all required permits and coordinate inspections with the Town of Moraga to ensure your remodeling project complies with local building codes and regulations.
In many cases, yes. We work with Moraga homeowners to phase construction and minimize disruption, allowing you to remain in your home safely throughout the remodeling project.
Getting started is simple. Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights to schedule a free consultation. We’ll review your goals, evaluate your home, discuss budget and timeline options, and help you move forward with confidence.
If you’re planning a home remodeling project in Moraga, CA, working with a contractor who keeps the process simple and the work consistent can make a real difference. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we bring over 40 years of experience delivering practical, well-executed renovations that improve how homes function and hold up over time.
Whether you’re updating a kitchen, renovating a bathroom, or planning a full-home remodel, we focus on clear planning, efficient execution, and results that are built to last.
Let’s improve your home in a way that’s straightforward, functional, and done right the first time.
Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today to schedule your consultation.