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
Aug 18, 2026
Most Norwalk basement finishing projects run $35,000 to $85,000. Cost by scope, permits through the Building Department, and Iowa egress requirements.
Aug 17, 2026
Bathrooms return a higher percentage of cost. Kitchens add more total dollars. Here is which one to do first based on your actual situation.
Aug 16, 2026
Most Martensdale decks run $8,000 to $30,000. Cost by material, Iowa frost line footing requirements, and how small-city inspection scheduling works.
Aug 15, 2026
Most Boxholm basement projects run $30,000 to $75,000. Cost by scope, small-city inspection scheduling, and Iowa egress requirements.
Aug 14, 2026
Most Grimes bathroom remodels run $12,000 to $36,000. Newer housing means fewer surprises at demolition and a smaller contingency.
Aug 13, 2026
Most Madrid decks run $8,000 to $30,000. Cost by material, Iowa frost line footing requirements, and why shallow footings ruin older decks.
Aug 12, 2026
Home additions in Panora start around $300 per square foot. Cost by type, the city’s contracted inspection process, and what actually drives the budget.
Aug 11, 2026
Home additions in Urbandale start at $300 per square foot. Cost by type, the city’s permit portal, and how local code amendments affect your
Aug 10, 2026
Yes, but less than you think. Below-grade space is assessed differently than above-grade, and Iowa’s rollback limits how much becomes taxable.