Maxwell, Iowa
Construction & Remodeling
Your One Call Solution for Home Building and Remodeling in Central Iowa.
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Jobs Completed
Full-Service Construction And Remodeling in Maxwell
Home Building
New home construction in Maxwell, IA. This Story County city of approximately 859 residents (2020 census) sits along the Heart of Iowa Trail, about 15 miles from Ames and 30-40 minutes from Des Moines. Founded when the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railway arrived and incorporated in 1883, Maxwell was named for J.W. Maxwell who donated the original townsite. We build custom homes with foundations designed for Iowa’s 42-inch frost line, energy-efficient systems meeting current IECC requirements, and finishes suited to this small-town Story County community.
Complete home remodeling in Maxwell, IA. The city’s housing stock spans from late 1800s construction through modern homes. Older homes often feature solid construction but may have outdated electrical systems (60-100 amp panels), galvanized plumbing, and minimal insulation. With median household income around $85,789 (2023), Maxwell homeowners often invest in quality updates. We assess each home’s specific conditions before recommending renovation approaches.
Home Remodeling
Kitchen remodeling
Kitchen remodeling in Maxwell, IA transforms homes across this Story County community. Many older kitchens have compartmentalized layouts that don’t suit modern family living. Opening these spaces may require structural assessment for load-bearing walls. We upgrade electrical systems to current NEC standards with dedicated circuits for modern appliances. Contact Maxwell City Hall at (515) 387-8655 for permit information.
Basement remodeling in Maxwell, IA requires understanding local soil conditions and radon risks. Story County falls within EPA Radon Zone 1, with predicted indoor screening levels above 4 pCi/L. We recommend professional radon testing before any basement work. Older Maxwell homes may have stone or block foundations requiring moisture assessment. Mitigation systems installed during remodeling typically cost $800-1,500 versus significantly more for retrofits.
Basement Remodeling
Bathroom Remodeling
Bathroom remodeling in Maxwell, IA often reveals aging infrastructure in older homes. Cast iron drain lines, galvanized supply pipes, and inadequate ventilation are common in pre-1970s construction. Modern bathroom remodels require proper ventilation per IRC standards (50 CFM minimum for bathrooms under 100 square feet). We inspect existing plumbing conditions before providing estimates and coordinate all required permits through City Hall.
Home additions in Maxwell, IA require permits through Maxwell City Hall at 107 Main Street, Maxwell, IA 50161. Contact (515) 387-8655 or email [email protected]. City Clerk Wendy Crabtree can provide permit information. For properties outside city limits, Story County Planning & Development at 900 Sixth Street, Nevada handles permits. We coordinate all permits and inspections for additions throughout the Maxwell area.
Home Additions
Basement Finishing
Basement finishing in Maxwell, IA converts unused square footage into valuable living space. Per IRC requirements, basement bedrooms must have egress windows with minimum 5.7 square feet of opening, 24-inch minimum width, and maximum 44-inch sill height. Proper insulation (R-10 continuous or R-13 cavity for basement walls per Iowa code), vapor barriers, and dehumidification are essential given Iowa’s humid summers and cold winters.
Deck building in Maxwell, IA enhances outdoor living in this scenic Story County community. With the Heart of Iowa Trail running through town, Maxwell City Park, and access to Story County Freedom Rock, residents value outdoor living spaces. Building permits are required through City Hall. Iowa’s freeze-thaw cycles demand proper footing depth (42 inches minimum) and pressure-treated lumber or composite materials rated for our climate.
Deck Building
Our Dream Building Partners.
- About Us
Maxwell, Iowa General Contractor
About Us
Established in 2020, Busy Builders has served over 1,000 Central Iowa homeowners. We bring decades of combined trade experience to projects in Maxwell and throughout Story County. As Iowa-registered contractors, we understand the unique characteristics of small-town Iowa communities. Whether updating an existing property or building new, we deliver quality work with transparent communication.
Our Mission
Provide the most transparent and honest experience possible for any construction project. We provide detailed written estimates, explain permit requirements upfront, and maintain clear communication throughout your project.
Our Vision
To serve all of Central Iowa with dedicated construction services, building lasting relationships through quality workmanship and integrity.
- Achievement
Your Dream, Our Passion.
Since 2020, over 1,000 Central Iowa homeowners have trusted us to build their dreams, and it shows.
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Skilled Workers
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Quality Construction at the Right Price.
Additions
Based on Average Pricing in Maxwell.
Starting From
$
300
Per sqft.
Features
- Additional Story
- Tornado Shelter
- Living Room
- Bedroom
- Sunroom
- Bathroom
- Garage
- ADU
Kitchen Remodeling
Based on Average Pricing in Maxwell.
Starting From
$
250
Per sqft.
Features
- Countertops
- Appliances
- Cabinetry
- Windows
- Islands
- Lights
Home Building
Based on Average Pricing in Maxwell.
Starting From
$
150
per sqft.
Features
- Dream Build
- Multi-Family
- Tiny Home
- Spec Build
- Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs About Home Construction & Remodeling in Maxwell, IA
Maxwell City Hall handles building permits at 107 Main Street, Maxwell, IA 50161.
Contact (515) 387-8655 or email [email protected].
City Clerk Wendy Crabtree can provide permit information.
For properties outside city limits, contact Story County Planning & Development at 900 Sixth Street, Nevada.
We coordinate all permits and inspections for our clients.
Maxwell follows Iowa State building codes including the 2021 International Residential Code (IRC) and 2020 National Electrical Code (NEC).
Iowa’s frost line depth of 42 inches applies to all foundation work.
Story County administers permits for unincorporated areas.
Contact City Hall for specific code questions regarding projects within Maxwell city limits.
Maxwell is served by the Collins-Maxwell Community School District, home of the Spartans.
The district was formed on July 1, 1983, through the merger of Collins and Maxwell school districts.
With approximately 475 students and 81 staff members, the district is Maxwell’s largest employer.
Elementary (PreK-5) is located in Collins, while Middle/High School (6-12) is in Maxwell.
The district competes in the Iowa Star Conference.
Maxwell is a small city with approximately 859 residents (2020 census), showing a slight population decline.
The population is 89.1% White, with a median household income of around $85,789 (2023), significantly higher than the state average.
The community offers affordable small-town living with a reasonable commute to both Ames (15 miles) and Des Moines (30-40 minutes).
Maxwell is approximately 30-40 minutes from Des Moines and 15 miles from Ames.
The Heart of Iowa Trail connects Maxwell to the broader Central Iowa trail network.
The city offers small-town living with access to Iowa State University in Ames and Des Moines metro employment.
Busy Builders serves Maxwell and Story County from our West Des Moines base.
Maxwell sits along the Heart of Iowa Trail, a 32-mile recreational trail connecting Melbourne to Woodward.
The Story County Freedom Rock is located here, and the Maxwell Museum preserves local history.
The Collins-Maxwell school district, with its single-campus approach, is the town’s largest employer.
Founded when the railroad arrived in the 1880s, Maxwell maintains its small-town character while offering access to Ames and Des Moines metro amenities.
- Our Articles
Home Building & Remodeling Blogs for Maxwell, IA
How Much Does It Cost to Build a Custom Home in Iowa in 2026?
Building a custom home in Iowa gives you complete control over your living space, from the foundation to the finishing touches. This guide breaks down every cost you can...
Deck Building in Des Moines: Design Ideas and Maintenance Tips For Every Season
Transforming a home is easier with expert insights on deck building and patio installation. Learn simple steps to create outdoor spaces that impress.
Maximizing Small Bathroom Spaces: Remodeling Tips for Iowa Homes
Transforming a home is easier with expert insights on deck building and patio installation. Learn simple steps to create outdoor spaces that impress.