Home Improvement Costs in Des Moines, IA
Des Moines is in Climate Zone 5A (Cool-Humid), with cold winters, moderate summers, significant snowfall, heating-dominated. Local labor costs are 8% below the national average.
Climate Zone
5A
Cool-Humid
Labor Index
0.92x
8% below
State
IA
Iowa
What to Know About Home Improvement in Des Moines
The cool-humid climate affects material choices, project timing, and contractor availability.
Ice Dam Prevention
Proper attic ventilation and insulation prevent ice dams. Ice/water shield at eaves required.
Heating Dominant
5,000-7,000 heating degree days. Furnace efficiency is biggest factor in energy bills.
Value Labor Market
Below-average labor costs make Des Moines a good value for renovation projects.
Cost Factors in Des Moines
Understanding local factors helps you budget accurately and choose the right contractors.
Labor Costs
8% below
Below-average labor costs make this a good market for renovation projects.
Best Season
May - October
Optimal timing for most exterior projects in Cool-Humid climate.
Common Priorities
- Heating efficiency
- Insulation upgrades
- Window replacement
- Basement waterproofing
Cost Calculators for Des Moines
Costs adjusted for Des Moines labor rates
Nearby Cities
View all cities in Iowa →About Climate Zone 5A: Cool-Humid
Cold winters, moderate summers, significant snowfall, heating-dominated. This climate zone classification is used by building codes and energy programs to determine insulation requirements, HVAC sizing, and material recommendations.
Our calculators factor in climate-specific considerations to provide more accurate estimates for Des Moines homeowners. Material recommendations are tailored to perform well in cool-humid conditions.