Construction and Remodeling Blog

Real answers for Central Iowa homeowners. Since 2020, Busy Builders has completed 1,285+ projects across Central Iowa, and this blog shares what those jobs teach: costs, permits, timelines, codes, and the mistakes worth avoiding. Every guide is written for Iowa conditions, from the 42 inch frost line to statewide radon levels.

1285+
Completed Projects
Since 2020
Serving Central Iowa
280+
Guides Written for Iowa Homes
Apr 28, 2026

Building a custom home in Iowa on a $400,000 budget is possible, but the number most people focus on, cost per square foot, is

Apr 27, 2026

Des Moines homeowners face a genuinely different decision in 2026 than they did two years ago. Inventory has hit a 12-year high, price growth

Apr 26, 2026

The ledger board is the single structural connection that keeps an attached deck from separating from your house. Most homeowners never see it and

Apr 25, 2026

An open floor plan can change how your home feels and functions. Removing a wall between a cramped kitchen and a disconnected living room

Apr 24, 2026

Iowa’s climate is one of the hardest on wood decks in the country. Between freeze-thaw cycles, humid summers, and direct UV exposure, your deck

Apr 23, 2026

You’ve been staring at that unfinished basement for a while now. Maybe you’ve imagined a wine cellar tucked in the corner, a wet bar

Apr 22, 2026
Many Central Iowa cities now require a permit for every deck. Here is what Iowa’s 2024 IRC requires for footings, ledgers, guards and stairs,
Apr 21, 2026
Upgrade your Iowa home with top energy-efficient solutions to save on bills and enhance comfort. Learn the best upgrades for sustainable living now!
Apr 20, 2026
Choosing the right home building materials in Iowa is crucial. Uncover essential options and tips to build your dream home effectively and sustainably.