Why Should Homeowners In Alamo Work With A Local General…
Key Takeaways Local general contractors have advanced knowledge of Alamo’s building codes and regulations. They make sure projects are up to code, saving homeowners from…
Transform your El Cerrito home with a trusted East Bay general contractor known for precision craftsmanship, structural expertise, and long-lasting results. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we bring over 40 years of experience delivering full-service remodeling, home additions, and structural upgrades designed for the unique challenges of El Cerrito homes.
Licensed, bonded, and insured, we manage every phase of your project—from planning and engineering to permitting, construction, and final walkthrough—with clear communication and dependable execution.
Many homes in El Cerrito were built decades ago and often come with outdated layouts, aging infrastructure, and structural limitations that no longer support modern living. From compact floor plans to older electrical and plumbing systems, these issues can make your home feel less functional than it should be.
In hillside areas, additional challenges such as foundation movement, drainage concerns, and slope-related structural demands can further impact long-term comfort and safety.
Working with an experienced general contractor in El Cerrito, CA is essential to ensure your renovation is properly planned and executed—from structural evaluation and engineering considerations to permitting and construction.
The right approach allows you to modernize your home, improve safety and functionality, and unlock the full potential of your property without unnecessary risk or disruption.
What sets Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights apart is our fully integrated design-build process, where one experienced team manages every phase of your project—from initial concept and structural planning to permitting, construction, and completion.
This streamlined approach eliminates the delays, miscommunication, and coordination issues that often occur when working with separate designers, engineers, and contractors, resulting in a more efficient and controlled construction experience.
In El Cerrito, many homes require a higher level of technical planning due to hillside terrain, aging foundations, and structural limitations common in older construction. Our experience working throughout the East Bay allows us to anticipate these challenges early and integrate engineering considerations directly into the planning and build process.
The result is a smoother renovation experience, stronger structural outcomes, and a finished home that is both functional and built for long-term stability.
Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality.
The kitchen is the heart of your home. Whether you’re looking for improved flow, additional storage, or a complete modern makeover, we’ll design a space that suits how your family actually uses it. From custom cabinetry and countertops to layout improvements and lighting upgrades, your new kitchen will be beautiful and functional.
Even small bathrooms can make a big difference. We remodel bathrooms to be more efficient, accessible, and relaxing. That might mean a walk-in shower, new tilework, double vanities, or upgraded fixtures that save water and energy—all while enhancing daily comfort and resale value.
When your family grows or your needs change, a home addition can provide the space you need without the need to move. We build primary suites, second-story expansions, and fully permitted ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units). Whether it’s for aging parents, a growing teenager, or rental income, we’ll help you design a new space that feels like it was always part of your home.
View Our Residential Portfolio →
Turn your underused garage into a productive part of your home—think home office, guest suite, gym, or studio. We handle the full transformation, including insulation, flooring, plumbing, electrical, and permits to ensure your new space meets all local requirements.
Curb appeal starts with the exterior. We specialize in James Hardie siding, known for its durability, fire resistance, and resistance to the salty air and winds common in the El Cerrito area. Whether you need repair or full replacement, we’ll protect and refresh your home with professional-grade installation.
Natural light adds life to every room. We install VELUX skylights and sun tunnels to brighten dark hallways, bathrooms, kitchens, and more. Skylights not only improve aesthetics—they can reduce energy use, improve ventilation, and boost your mood.
Your home’s stability starts from the ground up. We offer expert foundation repair and seismic retrofits using Grip-Tite systems, protecting homes from structural issues and earthquake risks common in the East Bay. We’ll inspect, assess, and reinforce your foundation with industry-leading solutions.
El Cerrito’s historic homes deserve to be preserved. We offer historical restoration services that retain the character of older homes while making them safer, more energy-efficient, and functional for modern living. We’re experienced with the materials, techniques, and care these special projects require.
When you’re planning a major home renovation, choosing the right contractor makes all the difference. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we bring decades of experience, trusted partnerships, and a customer-first approach to every project. Here’s why so many homeowners in El Cerrito rely on us for their remodeling and construction needs:
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 El Cerrito 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 El Cerrito 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.
For many homeowners in El Cerrito, the decision to remodel instead of relocate is driven by both financial and practical considerations. With high property values across the East Bay and limited availability of updated homes in desirable neighborhoods, moving often means sacrificing location, affordability, or the character of an existing property.
Remodeling allows homeowners to stay in the home and community they already know while addressing the limitations of older construction. Whether it’s improving structural stability, updating outdated interiors, or reconfiguring tight floor plans, renovation provides a way to significantly enhance comfort and livability without the disruption of moving.
In hillside areas of El Cerrito, many properties offer strong long-term value but require thoughtful upgrades to address foundation performance, drainage, and structural reinforcement. Strategic remodeling ensures these homes remain safe, functional, and aligned with modern living standards.
Working with an experienced general contractor in El Cerrito, CA, helps homeowners make informed decisions that balance cost, design, and long-term property value—maximizing the potential of their existing home investment.
While this page highlights our services in El Cerrito, we work with homeowners across the East Bay, including nearby communities like Hercules, El Sobrante, Richmond, and San Pablo. Our team understands the architectural styles, permitting processes, and homeowner priorities unique to the region.
Learn more about our projects →
When you’re ready to take the next step, we’re here to help. Whether it’s a small bathroom upgrade or a full-scale addition, we offer free estimates, clear project timelines, and personal attention to every detail.
Schedule a Consultation Now.
Thinking about a home upgrade or commercial renovation? If you’re searching for a “general contractor near me” in El Cerrito, CA, you’ll quickly find a list of options—but choosing the right team is key. With decades of experience and a full range of services, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights has been a trusted name in Bay Area construction since 1983. We proudly serve both homeowners and business owners with reliable, high-quality workmanship.
We partner with business owners to transform commercial spaces—whether it’s a complete overhaul or custom improvements. One standout project: Bentley’s in San Francisco (now Gaspar), where we built dramatic interior features like 30-foot ceilings and a 96-foot bar and updated the exterior to match the new vision.
Is it time to remodel your kitchen or reimagine your bathroom? Whether you’re looking for luxury, functionality, or both, we bring your ideas to life with custom interior renovations that enhance the look, feel, and value of your home.
From new decks to patios and everything in between, you don’t need multiple contractors to get the job done. As your local general contractor in El Cerrito, we handle both interior and exterior improvements—saving you time and simplifying the process.
If you’re ready to upgrade your property in El Cerrito, CA, trust Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights to deliver. Call our East Bay office at 925-671-9500 or reach us at 415-447-6136 to schedule a free estimate and consultation today.
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!
We begin by understanding your goals, property conditions, and vision for your El Cerrito home. This includes evaluating existing structure, layout limitations, and any hillside or foundation considerations.
Our team develops a comprehensive plan that balances design, functionality, and structural feasibility. For El Cerrito homes, this often includes engineering input for older structures and hillside stability requirements.
We manage all permitting requirements and coordinate with local authorities to ensure your project complies with El Cerrito building codes, zoning regulations, and seismic standards.
Once approved, our experienced team executes the build with precision craftsmanship, consistent communication, and strict quality control. Special attention is given to structural integrity, especially in older and hillside properties.
We complete a detailed walkthrough to ensure every aspect of your project meets our standards—and your expectations. Our goal is a finished space that is safe, functional, and built for long-term durability.
Key Takeaways Local general contractors have advanced knowledge of Alamo’s building codes and regulations. They make sure projects are up to code, saving homeowners from…
Key Takeaways The biggest benefit of hiring a general contractor for your home addition is how seamlessly they can manage home addition projects. General contractors…
Key Takeaways Some of the most common DIY home improvement projects go wrong simply due to a lack of planning and understanding of functionality. People…
Choosing the right general contractor is a big decision. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we want you to feel confident every step of the way. Below are answers to some of the most common questions homeowners in El Cerrito ask us about our services, materials, process, and experience. If you don’t see your question here, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team—we’re happy to help.
We specialize in full-service residential remodeling, including bathroom and kitchen renovations, home additions, garage conversions, ADUs, second-story expansions, siding replacements, skylight installations, and more. No matter the size or scope, we have the experience to manage your project from start to finish.
Yes, we are fully licensed, bonded, and insured. We follow all California building codes and safety requirements, giving homeowners peace of mind that their property and investment are protected throughout the process.
We offer complete design-build services, which means we manage your project from initial concept to final construction. This integrated approach saves time, reduces costs, and ensures your vision is fully realized with fewer handoffs and delays.
We’ve proudly served El Cerrito and the greater East Bay since 1983, delivering high-quality workmanship and outstanding customer care for over 40 years. Our longevity reflects our commitment to getting the job done right, every time.
Yes. We prioritize sustainable building practices, use energy-efficient materials where possible, and recommend long-lasting products like James Hardie fiber cement siding and VELUX skylights that improve insulation and lower energy bills.
Absolutely. Our experienced team is familiar with El Cerrito's permitting process and handles all applications, approvals, and inspections so your project stays compliant and stress-free.
Our work is managed by our dedicated in-house team, which allows us to maintain consistent quality and communication. You’ll always know who’s working on your project and what’s happening next.
We use top-tier, manufacturer-certified products like James Hardie siding, Grip-Tite foundation systems, and VELUX skylights. These brands are known for durability, energy efficiency, and warranty-backed performance.
Yes. You can explore our Residential Projects Portfolio to see examples of our craftsmanship. While we’re constantly updating the gallery, we’re happy to share relevant before-and-after photos during your consultation.
You can request a free consultation through our Contact Page. We’ll review your goals, discuss timelines and budget, and help you understand the next steps for bringing your vision to life.
Every home in El Cerrito presents unique challenges shaped by its age, terrain, and construction style. From hillside properties requiring careful structural planning to older homes needing foundation evaluation and system upgrades, successful remodeling depends on experience, precision, and a deep understanding of local conditions.
Without the right general contractor in El Cerrito, CA, homeowners risk facing unexpected structural issues, permitting delays, or costly design changes that could have been avoided with proper planning from the start.
Our decades of experience throughout the East Bay allow us to anticipate these challenges early and guide each project with confidence, ensuring smoother execution and stronger long-term results.
Homeowners choose our team because we provide a structured, transparent design-build process supported by decades of experience in residential construction. We prioritize clear communication, high-quality craftsmanship, and reliable project management from start to finish.
Whether it’s a hillside renovation, structural upgrade, or full home remodel, our focus is always on delivering safe, functional, and long-lasting results that improve both comfort and property value.
Whether you’re planning a full renovation, structural upgrade, or home addition, our team is ready to bring your vision to life with precision and care.
Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today to schedule your consultation in El Cerrito, CA.