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…
If you’re planning a home remodeling project in Walnut Creek, choosing the right contractor is the difference between a stressful process and a seamless transformation. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we bring over 40 years of experience delivering thoughtfully designed renovations that enhance how you live every day.
From custom kitchen and bathroom remodels to full-scale home renovations, our team focuses on quality craftsmanship, clear communication, and results that reflect your vision. We understand the expectations of Walnut Creek homeowners and tailor every project to meet the highest standards of design, durability, and detail.
When it comes to home remodeling in Walnut Creek, experience and attention to detail matter. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we’ve spent decades helping homeowners transform their spaces with a focus on craftsmanship, functionality, and long-term value.
Our design-build approach streamlines the entire process—from initial concept and planning to construction and final walkthrough—so you can move forward with confidence. We take the time to understand your goals, your lifestyle, and the unique character of your home, ensuring every detail is thoughtfully executed.
Whether you’re updating a single room or planning a whole-home renovation, our team is committed to delivering results that feel cohesive, refined, and built to last.
As a trusted home remodeling contractor in Walnut Creek, CA, we understand the unique styles, building standards, and expectations of homeowners throughout the area. Our team has extensive experience working in a variety of neighborhoods, allowing us to tailor each project to fit the character and structure of the home.
We proudly serve homeowners in Walnut Creek and nearby communities, including Alamo, Lafayette, Concord, Pleasant Hill, and surrounding areas. Whether you’re updating a classic property or modernizing your living space, we bring local expertise and a commitment to quality to every project.
Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality.
Your kitchen is the center of daily life, and it should be both functional and beautiful. We design and build custom kitchens that improve layout efficiency, maximize storage, and elevate the overall aesthetic of your home. From modern upgrades to full redesigns, every detail is tailored to your cooking habits, lifestyle, and design preferences.
We transform outdated bathrooms into clean, comfortable, and spa-inspired spaces. Our bathroom remodeling services focus on smart layouts, durable materials, and refined finishes that improve both usability and relaxation. Every project is designed to enhance comfort while adding long-term home value.
For homeowners ready to reimagine their entire space, our whole-home remodeling services provide a complete transformation. We rethink layout, flow, and design consistency across every room to create a home that feels cohesive, modern, and intentionally designed.
When you need more space, moving isn’t your only option. We design and build seamless home additions that blend naturally with your existing structure—whether it’s an extra bedroom, expanded living area, or new functional space tailored to your needs.
Our integrated design-build approach brings design and construction together under one team. This means better communication, fewer delays, and a more efficient remodeling process from concept to completion. You get a streamlined experience and a finished result that stays true to the original vision.
Choosing the right contractor is one of the most important decisions in any remodeling project. Here’s why homeowners in Walnut Creek continue to trust our team:
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 Walnut Creek 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 Walnut Creek 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 work speaks for itself. Over the years, we’ve completed a wide range of home remodeling projects in Walnut Creek and surrounding areas, helping homeowners transform outdated or inefficient spaces into beautiful, functional homes. Each project reflects our commitment to craftsmanship, detail, and lasting quality.
We design and build custom kitchens that improve flow, increase storage, and elevate the overall look and feel of the home. Every kitchen project is tailored to match the homeowner’s style and daily needs.
From modern updates to full spa-style redesigns, our bathroom remodeling projects focus on comfort, durability, and refined finishes.
We specialize in comprehensive renovations that reimagine the entire home, creating cohesive layouts and upgraded living spaces that feel brand new.
A successful remodeling project starts with a clear and organized process. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we guide you through every phase to ensure a smooth experience, transparent communication, and results that align with your expectations.
We begin with a detailed consultation to understand your goals, preferences, and budget. This allows us to align the project scope with your vision from the very start.
Our team develops a customized plan that includes layout, materials, and design elements. We focus on creating a cohesive design that enhances both function and aesthetics.
Once the plan is finalized, our skilled craftsmen bring your project to life with careful attention to detail, quality materials, and efficient project management.
We complete every project with a thorough walkthrough to ensure everything meets your expectations and our high standards of workmanship.
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 Walnut Creek homeowners often have important questions before starting the process. To help you move forward with confidence, we’ve answered the most common questions we hear from homeowners in Walnut Creek, CA, when working with Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights. These FAQs explain what to expect, how we work locally, and how we help create homes that are more functional, comfortable, and built to last.
We provide full-service home remodeling in Walnut Creek, including kitchen and bathroom remodels, whole-home renovations, room additions, garage conversions, siding upgrades, skylight installations, and structural improvements.
Yes. Walnut Creek features many mid-century and well-established neighborhoods. We’re experienced in updating layouts, improving energy efficiency, and modernizing finishes while preserving each home’s character.
Absolutely. Our design-build approach allows us to manage design, planning, permitting, and construction under one team, creating a streamlined and efficient remodeling experience.
Costs vary based on the scope of work, materials, and existing conditions. Walnut Creek remodeling projects can range from targeted updates to full-home renovations. We provide clear, transparent estimates so you can plan with confidence.
Timelines depend on the size and complexity of the remodel. Smaller projects may take several weeks, while larger renovations or additions may take a few months. We provide a detailed project schedule before construction begins.
Yes. We take care of all required permits and coordinate inspections with the City of Walnut Creek to ensure your remodeling project complies with local building codes and regulations.
In many cases, yes. We work with Walnut Creek homeowners to phase construction when possible, minimize disruption, and maintain a clean and safe work environment throughout the project.
To get started, contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights to schedule a consultation. We’ll discuss your goals, assess your home, review budget and timeline options, and guide you through the next steps.
If you’re ready to upgrade your home, our team is here to help you bring your vision to life. With over 40 years of experience in home remodeling throughout Walnut Creek and surrounding areas, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights delivers craftsmanship, clarity, and results you can trust.
Whether you’re planning a kitchen update, bathroom renovation, or a full home transformation, we’re committed to making the process smooth, transparent, and tailored to your goals from start to finish.
Let’s build a home that reflects your style, supports your lifestyle, and adds lasting value.
Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today to schedule your consultation.