Compare the highest-rated kitchen remodeling professionals in Des Moines, Iowa. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated, locally owned and operated franchise known for comprehensive kitchen remodels. They emphasize a streamlined process with dedicated project management and offer both full renovations and cost-effective solutions like cabinet refacing and refacing. Their strength lies in combining design expertise with quality craftsmanship.
A trusted, employee-owned Iowa company with deep roots in the community. Their Kitchen & Bath division provides a full-service, design-build approach. Clients work with their in-house designers to create a plan, and Lampert manages the entire project from concept to completion, including coordinating plumbing, electrical, and carpentry.
A specialized design-build firm focused exclusively on kitchens and bathrooms. They are known for their high-end custom work, attention to detail, and strong relationships with premium suppliers for cabinetry, countertops, and appliances. They excel at complex projects involving significant layout changes and luxury finishes.
** The kitchen remodeling market in Des Moines is robust and competitive, characterized by a mix of long-standing local lumberyards with design services (like Lampert), specialized boutique design-build firms (like Kitchen & Bath Concepts), and successful franchise operators (like Kitchen Solvers). The overall quality is high, with a strong Midwestern emphasis on craftsmanship and reliability. Homeowners have a good range of options, from budget-conscious refacing projects to high-end, fully custom renovations. Competition helps keep pricing fair, but as with the national market, costs have risen due to material and labor expenses. A typical mid-range full kitchen remodel in Des Moines can range from $25,000 to $50,000, while high-end custom projects often start at $60,000 and can exceed $100,000. The market shows a strong trend towards quartz countertops, shaker-style cabinetry, and open-concept layouts that improve space optimization.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Des Moines regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about kitchen remodeling services in Des Moines, Iowa.
In the Des Moines metro, a full kitchen remodel typically ranges from $25,000 to $70,000+, with mid-range projects averaging $40,000-$60,000. Key cost factors include the age of your home (older homes in neighborhoods like Beaverdale or Sherman Hill may require more structural updates), the quality of materials, and labor rates. Local material costs can be influenced by supply chain logistics to central Iowa, and choosing locally sourced cabinetry or countertops can sometimes offer savings.
Des Moines' distinct four seasons significantly impact scheduling. Winter projects require contractors to manage indoor dust containment and heating, while summer is peak season, leading to longer lead times. The humid summers can also affect the installation of hardwood flooring or cabinetry, requiring proper acclimation of materials in your home. Planning for a spring or fall start can often provide a more predictable schedule and better availability of contractors.
Yes, most kitchen remodels in Des Moines require permits, especially for electrical, plumbing, and structural changes. You must comply with the City of Des Moines Development Services Department codes. A key local consideration is that many homes have older plumbing (like galvanized pipes) that may need updating to current code. Always verify your contractor will pull the necessary permits, as this ensures inspections for safety and protects your home's value.
Prioritize contractors who are licensed, insured, and have extensive local experience. Check for membership in the Home Builders Association of Greater Des Moines (HBA of DSM) and ask for references from recent projects in your specific area. A reputable local contractor will understand common issues in Iowa homes, such as dealing with basement moisture barriers that affect lower-level kitchens or the best materials for our fluctuating humidity levels.
In Des Moines' many historic and mid-century homes, common surprises include outdated wiring (knob-and-tube), non-standard plumbing, uneven floors and walls, and the potential for asbestos or lead paint in layers beneath existing surfaces. Budgeting a 10-20% contingency is crucial. A local professional will know how to handle these issues in compliance with city codes while preserving the character of your home.