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…
A well-designed kitchen does more than improve how your home looks—it changes how you live in it every day. Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights Inc. delivers expert kitchen remodeling in El Cerrito, CA, helping homeowners turn outdated, inefficient kitchens into highly functional, beautifully crafted spaces built for modern living.
With over 40 years of experience as a licensed general contractor serving the Bay Area, we specialize in full-service kitchen transformations that balance design, structure, and long-term durability. Whether your home needs a complete kitchen overhaul, a layout reconfiguration, or targeted upgrades like new cabinetry, countertops, lighting, or flooring, we approach every project with precision and care.
Our remodeling process is built around one goal: creating kitchens that are not only visually impressive, but also practical, efficient, and tailored to how your household actually uses the space. From improving workflow between cooking zones to maximizing storage in older El Cerrito homes, every detail is intentionally planned and professionally executed.
We understand the architectural diversity of El Cerrito—from mid-century homes to hillside properties—and we design kitchens that integrate seamlessly with each home’s structure while enhancing comfort, value, and everyday usability.
Start planning your kitchen upgrade with a trusted Bay Area builder. See how we approach full remodels through our El Cerrito kitchen remodeling work.
If your kitchen feels outdated, cramped, poorly lit, or simply no longer fits your lifestyle, you are not alone. Many homeowners in El Cerrito live in homes built decades ago where kitchen layouts were not designed for today’s open-concept living, modern appliances, or storage demands.
We help homeowners reimagine their kitchens from the ground up—solving issues like inefficient layouts, lack of counter space, limited storage, outdated finishes, and aging electrical or plumbing systems. Whether your goal is a brighter, more open kitchen or a complete structural redesign, our team guides you through every step with clarity and expertise.
From the first consultation, we evaluate how your kitchen functions in real life—not just how it looks on paper. We consider traffic flow, cooking habits, lighting, ventilation, and connection to adjacent living spaces to create a design that actually improves your daily routine.
Our process includes design planning, material selection, construction, and final finishing work. You do not need to coordinate multiple contractors, we handle the entire project as a single, accountable team.
Ready to improve your kitchen layout or finishes? Reach out to our team to request a project consultation.
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.
Kitchen remodeling is not just a cosmetic upgrade—it is a structural and functional investment in your home. That is why El Cerrito homeowners continue to choose Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights Inc. for projects that require experience, precision, and long-term reliability.
With more than 40 years of general contracting experience across the San Francisco Bay Area, we bring a depth of construction knowledge that goes beyond surface-level renovation work. Our team understands how kitchens are built from the inside out—framing, load-bearing considerations, plumbing, electrical systems, ventilation, and finish work all have to work together seamlessly. That level of integration is what allows us to deliver kitchens that not only look exceptional but perform flawlessly for decades.
We are known for delivering remodeling work that respects both the home’s original structure and the homeowner’s vision. In El Cerrito, where properties range from older mid-century builds to updated hillside homes, that balance is especially important. We carefully evaluate existing conditions before making design recommendations, ensuring every upgrade is structurally sound and code-compliant.
Homeowners trust us because we prioritize clarity and accountability at every stage. From the initial walkthrough to the final punch list, communication remains consistent, timelines are clearly defined, and expectations are managed with honesty. There are no shortcuts, no guesswork, and no disconnected subcontracting chains—just a coordinated, experienced construction team responsible for the entire result.
Our reputation is built on:
We also understand that a kitchen remodel can feel overwhelming without the right guidance. That is why we focus heavily on simplifying the process for homeowners—helping you make informed decisions about layout, materials, and functionality without unnecessary stress or confusion.
Every kitchen we build is designed to elevate both daily living and long-term property value. When you work with our team, you are partnering with a contractor that treats your home with the same level of care and precision we would expect for our own.
If you want a remodel handled by experienced builders who understand El Cerrito homes, talk with our remodeling team today.
Every kitchen remodel has different goals, constraints, and structural conditions—especially in El Cerrito, where homes often vary widely in age, layout, and architectural style. That is why Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights Inc. provides fully customized, start-to-finish kitchen remodeling services designed to handle everything from minor upgrades to complete structural transformations.
Our approach is comprehensive. We do not simply replace finishes—we rebuild kitchens with a focus on functionality, durability, and long-term value. Each project is carefully planned to improve how the space works while elevating its visual design and structural integrity.
We manage every phase of the remodeling process, including design development, demolition, construction, and final finishing work. This allows homeowners to work with one experienced team instead of coordinating multiple contractors.
Our kitchen remodeling services in El Cerrito include:
We redesign inefficient kitchens by improving workflow between cooking, cleaning, and storage zones. For older homes, this often includes opening up closed-off layouts, removing non-structural barriers, and improving overall spatial flow.
We install high-quality cabinetry designed for both style and function. From modern flat-panel designs to classic wood finishes, we help maximize storage while maintaining a clean, cohesive look. Custom pantry builds, pull-out organizers, and built-in solutions are also available for better space efficiency.
We provide expert installation of durable, high-end surfaces including quartz, granite, and marble. Kitchen islands can be added or expanded to improve prep space, seating, and visual balance within the room.
We upgrade outdated flooring with durable, design-forward materials that complement your kitchen’s overall style while standing up to daily wear and moisture exposure.
Proper lighting transforms a kitchen. We install layered lighting solutions including recessed lighting, task lighting, and accent lighting. We also upgrade outdated electrical systems to support modern appliances safely and efficiently.
From sink relocation to modern faucet upgrades, we handle all plumbing adjustments required during a remodel. This ensures better functionality, improved water efficiency, and compliance with current standards.
We install durable, visually appealing backsplashes and wall finishes that enhance design continuity while protecting key areas from moisture and wear.
For complete transformations, we provide full demolition and rebuild services. This allows us to reconfigure the entire kitchen layout and rebuild it from the ground up with improved structure, flow, and design.
Every element is built around one priority: creating a kitchen that performs as well as it looks. Our team ensures that materials, layout decisions, and construction methods all work together to deliver a finished space that is both beautiful and built to last.
If you want a remodel handled by experienced builders who understand El Cerrito homes, talk with our remodeling team today.
Kitchen remodeling in El Cerrito is rarely a one-size-fits-all project. Each neighborhood has its own architectural character, lot conditions, and home styles—from mid-century builds to hillside properties with unique structural considerations. Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights Inc. brings localized experience to every project, ensuring your kitchen remodel is designed not just for beauty, but for the specific conditions of your home and neighborhood.
We provide kitchen remodeling services throughout El Cerrito, including:
A central, highly accessible neighborhood where many homes benefit from modern kitchen updates to improve layout efficiency and bring older interiors up to today’s standards. We often focus on open-concept redesigns, improved lighting, and better storage solutions in this area.
Known for its hillside positioning and elevated views, Arlington Heights homes often require thoughtful kitchen redesigns that consider structural load, natural lighting, and space optimization. We frequently help homeowners rework tighter layouts into more open, functional kitchens.
A quiet residential area with a mix of older homes and long-established properties. Many kitchens here were built with compartmentalized layouts, and we commonly transform them into brighter, more connected spaces that better suit modern living.
Hillside properties often present unique remodeling challenges, including uneven foundations, slope-related design constraints, and limited footprint expansion options. Our team specializes in adapting kitchen layouts to maximize usable space while maintaining structural integrity.
This high-traffic residential-commercial corridor features a wide variety of home styles, including mid-century and post-war construction. Kitchen remodeling in this area often focuses on modernization, energy efficiency upgrades, and improving everyday functionality.
Homes near this popular greenbelt benefit from remodels that enhance indoor-outdoor flow, natural light, and open living concepts. We often design kitchens that visually and functionally connect to adjacent living spaces for a more cohesive home environment.
Bordering Richmond, this area includes many older homes that are ideal candidates for full kitchen renovations. We frequently update layouts, replace outdated systems, and improve storage efficiency while maintaining the home’s original character.
In these nearby hillside communities, homeowners often request high-end kitchen upgrades with custom finishes, expanded layouts, and premium materials designed to elevate both function and property value.
No matter where you are located in El Cerrito or surrounding East Bay communities, our team brings the same level of precision, planning, and craftsmanship to every kitchen remodel.
Planning a kitchen upgrade in El Cerrito or nearby neighborhoods? Start a conversation with our design-build team.
Many homes in El Cerrito were built in earlier construction eras when kitchens were smaller, more enclosed, and designed around outdated appliance layouts. While these homes often have strong structural bones, their kitchens typically no longer match modern expectations for flow, storage, or functionality. That is where strategic remodeling makes the biggest impact.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights Inc., we focus on identifying the underlying design and structural issues—not just cosmetic flaws—so your new kitchen solves problems at the source and improves long-term livability.
One of the most common issues we see is kitchens that interrupt workflow. Appliances are often too far apart, counter space is limited, or movement between sink, stove, and refrigerator is inefficient. We redesign layouts to improve functionality using practical, real-world cooking patterns.
Older kitchens in El Cerrito frequently lack sufficient cabinetry or usable prep areas. We solve this by incorporating custom storage solutions, expanded cabinetry, pantry systems, and kitchen islands designed to maximize every inch of available space.
Many kitchens still rely on aging wiring or outdated plumbing that cannot support modern appliances. We upgrade these systems to ensure safety, reliability, and compatibility with today’s energy demands and appliance standards.
Inadequate lighting is a frequent complaint in older homes. We redesign lighting plans using layered solutions—ambient, task, and accent lighting—to create brighter, more usable kitchens that feel open and inviting.
Traditional layouts often isolate the kitchen from the rest of the home. We help homeowners transition toward open or semi-open concepts, improving sightlines, natural light flow, and connection to dining and living areas where structurally feasible.
Countertops, flooring, cabinets, and backsplashes often show years of wear. Beyond aesthetics, these materials can become less functional over time. We replace them with durable, modern finishes that improve both appearance and performance.
Poor ventilation can lead to lingering odors, excess heat, and moisture buildup. We improve airflow through better range hood systems, updated ducting, and smarter kitchen layouts that support healthier indoor air quality.
Many El Cerrito kitchens are compact but under-optimized. We specialize in making small kitchens feel larger and more functional through space-saving cabinetry, smart layout design, and built-in storage solutions.
Older properties may have load-bearing walls or framing constraints that limit remodeling options. Our team evaluates structural conditions carefully and develops safe, engineered solutions that allow for meaningful upgrades without compromising integrity.
Every kitchen remodel we complete is designed to eliminate these issues while improving long-term usability, safety, and value. The goal is not just a better-looking kitchen—it is a better-functioning home.
From layout issues to outdated finishes, we solve it all—see how we handle full kitchen transformations in the Bay Area.
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 Inc. has been serving El Cerrito and the greater San Francisco Bay Area for over four decades, bringing consistent craftsmanship, structural expertise, and dependable service to every project we take on. Our long-standing presence in the region means we understand not only how homes are built here, but also how they age, shift, and evolve.
In El Cerrito specifically, we’ve worked on a wide range of kitchen remodeling projects across older mid-century homes, hillside properties, and long-established residential neighborhoods. This experience gives us a practical understanding of common construction styles, foundation conditions, and layout limitations that are unique to the area. That insight allows us to plan more accurate remodels, avoid unnecessary delays, and deliver results that are both structurally sound and visually refined.
What sets our team apart is consistency. We don’t approach kitchen remodeling as a one-time transaction—we build long-term relationships through quality work, clear communication, and dependable project execution. Homeowners rely on us because we show up prepared, stay accountable throughout the project, and prioritize doing the job right the first time.
Over the years, our work has remained centered on a few core principles:
We preserve the integrity of the home while improving its function.
We design kitchens that align with real daily use, not just aesthetics.
We use proven construction methods that stand the test of time.
We maintain clear, honest communication from start to finish.
We treat every home with respect, care, and attention to detail.
Our experience also allows us to anticipate challenges before they become problems. Whether it’s structural adjustments in older homes, coordination of electrical and plumbing upgrades, or adapting layouts to modern standards, we approach every kitchen remodel with a proactive mindset.
For El Cerrito homeowners, this means fewer surprises, smoother timelines, and a finished kitchen that feels intentional in every detail.
Thinking about modernizing your kitchen? Schedule a professional evaluation with our construction team.
Small kitchen issues rarely stay small for long. In many El Cerrito homes, what begins as a minor inconvenience—like a sticking cabinet door or dim lighting—can quickly point to deeper structural, plumbing, or electrical concerns that affect the overall safety and functionality of the space. Addressing these signs early can help you avoid more extensive and costly renovations later.
If you’re noticing that your kitchen no longer performs the way it should, it may be time to take a closer look at what’s happening behind the finishes.
Some of the most common indicators that your kitchen may need professional attention include:
While these issues may seem isolated, they often point to a larger underlying problem with aging systems or outdated kitchen design.
Delaying kitchen remodeling or repairs can lead to more serious complications over time. Water damage can spread behind walls, outdated electrical systems can become safety hazards, and inefficient layouts can continue to reduce the usability of your home.
Taking action early allows for more flexibility in design, better budgeting control, and fewer structural surprises during construction. In many cases, early-stage remodeling also opens up opportunities to improve layout, storage, and lighting in ways that significantly enhance daily living.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights Inc., we start with a detailed evaluation of your existing kitchen to identify both visible and hidden issues. From there, we provide clear recommendations based on your goals, home structure, and long-term value considerations.
Whether you need a full remodel or targeted improvements, our team ensures every solution is practical, code-compliant, and designed to last.
With 40+ years of experience, we bring proven results to every project—discover our design-build kitchen remodeling approach.
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…
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights Inc. proudly provides kitchen remodeling services throughout El Cerrito and the surrounding East Bay communities. Our work extends beyond single neighborhoods—we serve a wide regional area where homeowners share similar goals: improving outdated kitchens, increasing functionality, and creating more comfortable, modern living spaces.
Because we are a long-established Bay Area general contractor, we understand the architectural differences across nearby cities, from compact mid-century homes to larger hillside properties. This allows us to tailor every kitchen remodel to the specific structure, style, and needs of each home we work on.
We regularly complete kitchen remodeling projects in:
In addition to El Cerrito and immediate neighboring cities, we also serve homeowners throughout Contra Costa and Alameda County. This broader service area allows us to bring consistent craftsmanship and reliable project management to a wide range of residential kitchen remodeling projects.
Working across multiple East Bay communities gives us valuable insight into:
This experience ensures that every kitchen remodel we complete is not only visually refined but also structurally appropriate and built for long-term performance.
No matter where you are located in the East Bay, our approach remains the same—careful planning, honest communication, and high-quality construction from start to finish.
Have questions about layout, budget, or timeline? Speak directly with a remodeling specialist.
A well-planned kitchen remodel can completely change how your home feels and functions every day. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights Inc., we focus on building kitchens that are not only visually refined, but also structurally sound, highly functional, and designed to support long-term living.
Whether your kitchen needs a full redesign or targeted upgrades, our team brings decades of experience to every phase of the project, from planning and design through construction and final finishing. We understand the unique characteristics of El Cerrito homes, and we build solutions that improve layout efficiency, maximize space, and enhance the overall flow of your home.
What sets our work apart is our commitment to doing things correctly the first time. We do not rush through projects or rely on shortcuts. Instead, we take a methodical, detail-driven approach that ensures every cabinet, surface, fixture, and structural adjustment serves a purpose in the finished design. The result is a kitchen that feels intentional, durable, and tailored to how you actually live.
Homeowners choose us because we provide:
If you are ready to improve your kitchen, now is the right time to start planning. Early consultation allows us to evaluate your space, identify opportunities, and create a remodeling plan that aligns with your goals, timeline, and budget.
Upgrade your home with a kitchen built for function, flow, and long-term value—learn more about custom kitchen remodeling in El Cerrito.
The information provided on this page is intended for general informational purposes only and is based on typical kitchen remodeling services offered by Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights Inc. Project scope, timelines, materials, and costs may vary depending on the specific conditions of each home, site limitations, design selections, and local building requirements in El Cerrito, CA.
All remodeling work is subject to inspection and engineering evaluation when required. Final project details will be confirmed during your consultation and outlined in a written agreement before construction begins.
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights Inc. makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information presented; however, we do not guarantee that all details will apply to every project or remain current as building codes, material availability, and industry standards may change over time.
For the most accurate assessment of your kitchen remodeling project, please contact our team directly to schedule a professional evaluation.
Kitchen remodeling is a major investment, and homeowners in El Cerrito often have important questions before starting a project. Below are clear, detailed answers to the most common concerns we hear during consultations. These are designed to help you better understand the process, timeline, and what to expect when working with a professional design-build contractor.
A full kitchen remodel includes demolition of the existing kitchen, redesign of the layout, and complete replacement of key components such as cabinetry, countertops, flooring, lighting, plumbing fixtures, and appliances. Depending on the home, it may also involve electrical upgrades, structural adjustments, and improved ventilation systems to meet modern standards.
Timelines vary depending on the size and complexity of the project, but most kitchen remodels take several weeks from demolition to completion. Factors that affect duration include material availability, structural modifications, and the level of customization involved. We provide a clear project schedule before construction begins so homeowners know what to expect.
Every kitchen remodeling project is different. The requirements depend on the scope of work, including whether the project involves plumbing, electrical, or structural changes. Our team manages every phase of the remodeling process, coordinating the work to meet local building standards and ensure your project is completed professionally from start to finish.
Absolutely. Many homes in El Cerrito were built decades ago and require specialized knowledge to remodel properly. We frequently work with older structures, carefully evaluating framing, foundation conditions, and utility systems before making design recommendations or structural changes.
Yes. Every kitchen remodel we complete is fully customized. You can select materials, finishes, cabinetry styles, layout preferences, lighting design, and appliance placement. We also provide professional guidance to ensure your design choices are both functional and structurally sound.
Older homes can sometimes reveal hidden conditions such as outdated wiring, plumbing issues, or structural limitations. When this happens, we communicate immediately, explain your options clearly, and recommend the most practical solution. Our goal is to avoid surprises through careful pre-construction planning, but we are fully prepared to adapt when needed.
In most cases, yes. A well-designed kitchen remodel is one of the most valuable home improvements you can make. It improves daily usability, enhances aesthetic appeal, and increases market attractiveness for future buyers. The exact return depends on the scope of the remodel and the quality of materials used.
We provide both design and construction services. Our team helps with layout planning, material selection, and functional design improvements before construction begins. This ensures your kitchen is not only beautifully finished but also optimized for real-world use.
This depends on the condition of your kitchen and your goals. If your layout works well but finishes are outdated, targeted upgrades may be enough. However, if you are dealing with poor flow, lack of storage, or outdated systems, a full remodel is often the better long-term solution. We evaluate your kitchen and provide honest recommendations based on function, structure, and budget.
The first step is scheduling a professional consultation. During this visit, we assess your existing kitchen, discuss your goals, and provide recommendations based on your home’s structure and your desired outcome. From there, we create a clear plan for design, timeline, and construction.
If your kitchen is showing signs of age or inefficiency, get expert input before issues get worse.