Sophia Lee
If you're searching for where to buy wood in Des Moines, you’ll find a variety of options catering to both DIY enthusiasts and professional woodworkers. Local lumberyards like Economy Lumber and Iowa Wood Products offer a wide selection of hardwoods, softwoods, and specialty woods for projects of all sizes. For those seeking reclaimed or sustainably sourced materials, stores such as Reclaimed Des Moines provide unique, eco-friendly options. Additionally, big-box retailers like Home Depot and Lowe’s offer convenient access to standard lumber and plywood. Whether you’re building furniture, tackling home renovations, or crafting, Des Moines has a wood supplier to meet your needs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Des Moines, Iowa, USA |
| Stores | Home Depot, Lowe's, Menards, Woodcraft, local lumberyards (e.g., Economy Lumber, Iowa Lumber) |
| Types of Wood Available | Hardwoods (oak, maple, cherry), softwoods (pine, cedar), plywood, MDF, specialty woods |
| Services | Cutting, milling, delivery, custom orders |
| Price Range | Varies by type and quantity; generally $2–$20 per board foot |
| Hours of Operation | Typically 7 AM–8 PM (varies by store) |
| Online Ordering | Available at Home Depot, Lowe's, Menards, and Woodcraft |
| Customer Reviews | Mixed; higher ratings for specialty stores like Woodcraft |
| Sustainability Options | Some stores offer FSC-certified or reclaimed wood |
| Additional Products | Tools, stains, finishes, hardware, and woodworking supplies |
| Delivery Options | Same-day or scheduled delivery available at major retailers |
| Specialty Stores | Woodcraft for exotic woods and professional tools |
| DIY Workshops | Offered at Home Depot and Lowe's for woodworking projects |
| Website Links | Home Depot, Lowe's, Menards, Woodcraft |
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What You'll Learn
Local lumber yards in Des Moines
Des Moines, Iowa, is home to several local lumber yards that cater to both professional contractors and DIY enthusiasts. These establishments offer a wide range of wood products, from dimensional lumber to specialty hardwoods, ensuring that customers can find exactly what they need for their projects. One standout option is Kramer Lumber Company, a family-owned business with a rich history in the area. They provide not only high-quality materials but also personalized service, making them a go-to choice for those who value expertise and local support.
For those seeking a more extensive selection, Menards in Des Moines is a one-stop shop for lumber and building materials. While it’s part of a larger chain, the local branch maintains a focus on regional needs, stocking products suited to Iowa’s climate and construction trends. Their inventory includes treated lumber, plywood, and engineered wood, along with tools and hardware. A practical tip: take advantage of their in-store project planners, which can help you calculate material quantities and avoid costly overages.
If sustainability is a priority, Reclaimed Des Moines offers a unique alternative to traditional lumber yards. Specializing in reclaimed wood, they source materials from deconstructed barns, factories, and other structures, giving new life to old timber. This option not only reduces environmental impact but also adds character to projects with wood that tells a story. Keep in mind that reclaimed wood may require additional preparation, such as cleaning or milling, so factor that into your project timeline.
Comparing local lumber yards reveals distinct advantages depending on your needs. For instance, Iowa Lumber Company excels in providing custom milling services, ideal for bespoke projects requiring precise dimensions or unique finishes. On the other hand, Lowe’s in Des Moines offers the convenience of a national retailer with the added benefit of local staff who understand regional building codes and material requirements. When choosing a supplier, consider not just price but also the value of services like delivery, cutting, and expert advice.
Finally, for small-scale projects or hobbyists, Woodcraft of Des Moines is a hidden gem. Specializing in hardwoods and woodworking supplies, they cater to artisans and crafters with a curated selection of exotic and domestic woods. Their staff often includes experienced woodworkers who can provide tips on techniques, tool selection, and finishing. While their prices may be higher than big-box stores, the quality and expertise make it a worthwhile investment for specialized projects. Always call ahead to check availability, as specialty woods can sell out quickly.
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Home improvement stores with wood supplies
Des Moines residents seeking wood supplies for their projects often turn to home improvement stores, which offer a wide range of options from dimensional lumber to specialty hardwoods. Stores like The Home Depot and Lowe's are go-to destinations, providing both raw materials and pre-cut pieces suitable for everything from framing to fine woodworking. These retailers typically stock pine, oak, cedar, and pressure-treated lumber, ensuring customers can find what they need for indoor or outdoor projects. Additionally, many locations offer cutting services, allowing buyers to have wood trimmed to specific dimensions on-site, saving time and effort.
For those prioritizing variety and quality, Menards stands out as another key player in the Des Moines area. Its lumber department features an extensive selection, including exotic hardwoods like maple, cherry, and walnut, which are ideal for high-end furniture or cabinetry. Menards also carries plywood, MDF, and other sheet materials in various thicknesses and finishes, catering to both DIY enthusiasts and professional contractors. The store’s in-house brands often provide cost-effective alternatives without compromising on durability, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious shoppers.
While big-box stores dominate the market, local suppliers like Economy Lumber & Hardware offer a more personalized experience. This family-owned business specializes in hardwoods and custom milling, appealing to woodworkers seeking unique or hard-to-find species. Their staff’s expertise can be invaluable for complex projects, providing guidance on material selection and best practices. Economy Lumber also supports sustainability by sourcing reclaimed wood, an eco-friendly option for those looking to reduce their environmental footprint.
When choosing a home improvement store for wood supplies, consider the scale and specificity of your project. Big-box retailers excel in convenience and affordability, making them ideal for standard builds or large-scale renovations. Local suppliers, on the other hand, shine in niche areas, offering specialized products and personalized service. For instance, if you’re crafting a custom dining table, a local hardwood supplier might provide better options than a general retailer. Always check availability and compare prices, as stock levels and promotions can vary significantly between stores.
Finally, don’t overlook the value of online resources paired with in-store purchases. Many home improvement chains allow customers to check inventory and place orders online, streamlining the shopping process. Some even offer delivery or curbside pickup, which can be a lifesaver for heavy or bulky items like plywood sheets. Combining digital tools with the hands-on experience of browsing in-store ensures you get the best of both worlds—convenience and informed decision-making—when sourcing wood for your Des Moines-based project.
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Specialty wood retailers in the area
Des Moines may not be the first place that comes to mind for specialty wood, but a handful of retailers cater to discerning woodworkers, artisans, and hobbyists. K&M Lumber Supply stands out for its curated selection of exotic hardwoods, including zebrawood, padauk, and wenge, ideal for high-end furniture or intricate carvings. Their staff offers expert advice on grain patterns and moisture content, ensuring your project starts on solid footing. For those seeking reclaimed or salvaged wood, Rustic Revival sources barnwood, beams, and mantels with a story to tell. Each piece is meticulously cleaned and milled, blending character with usability for farmhouse tables or accent walls.
While big-box stores offer convenience, specialty retailers provide unparalleled quality and variety. Woodcraft of Des Moines doubles as a one-stop shop for both raw materials and tools, stocking domestic hardwoods like walnut and maple alongside specialty items like turning blanks and veneer. Their workshops and demos make it a hub for skill-building, attracting both novices and seasoned craftsmen. Conversely, Iowa Hardwood focuses exclusively on locally sourced lumber, appealing to eco-conscious buyers. Their kiln-dried oak and hickory are popular for flooring and cabinetry, with custom milling available for precise dimensions.
Price-conscious buyers should note that specialty wood comes at a premium, but the investment often pays off in durability and aesthetics. For example, a 4/4 board of quarter-sawn white oak at Iowa Hardwood runs $8–$12 per board foot, compared to $5–$7 at a general supplier. However, the tighter grain and reduced warping justify the cost for fine woodworking. Rustic Revival’s reclaimed barnwood starts at $10 per square foot, but its unique patina eliminates the need for staining, saving time and materials.
When selecting a retailer, consider your project’s scale and timeline. K&M Lumber’s exotic woods may require longer lead times due to sourcing, while Woodcraft’s in-stock inventory suits tighter schedules. Always inspect boards for defects and ask about return policies, as specialty wood sales are often final. For large orders, inquire about delivery options—Iowa Hardwood offers free shipping within 50 miles for purchases over $500.
Finally, don’t overlook the community aspect of these retailers. Woodcraft’s monthly carving club and Rustic Revival’s DIY workshops foster connections among local artisans. Building relationships with staff can lead to insider tips, bulk discounts, or access to rare finds. In Des Moines, specialty wood isn’t just a product—it’s a gateway to craftsmanship, sustainability, and creativity.
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Online wood suppliers delivering to Des Moines
For those in Des Moines seeking wood for projects, online suppliers offer a convenient alternative to local lumberyards. Websites like Woodworkers Source and Bell Forest Products provide a wide range of hardwoods, softwoods, and exotic species, often with detailed descriptions and customer reviews to guide your selection. These platforms typically feature user-friendly interfaces, allowing you to filter by wood type, thickness, and quantity, ensuring you find exactly what you need without leaving home.
One advantage of online suppliers is their ability to cater to niche needs. For instance, The Wood Yard specializes in reclaimed and salvaged wood, ideal for eco-conscious builders or those seeking unique textures. Similarly, Hardwood Lumber Company offers custom milling services, allowing you to order wood cut to specific dimensions, which can save time and reduce waste on your end. Delivery times to Des Moines vary, but most suppliers provide tracking and expedited shipping options for urgent projects.
While online suppliers offer convenience, there are considerations to keep in mind. Shipping costs can add up, especially for heavy or bulky items, so compare prices across sites like Lumber Liquidators and Woodcraft to find the best deal. Additionally, inspect your order upon arrival—most suppliers have return policies, but documenting any damage immediately is crucial for a smooth resolution. For larger projects, some companies, like Bair’s Lumber, offer bulk discounts, making online purchasing cost-effective despite shipping fees.
To maximize your online wood-buying experience, plan ahead. Measure your project requirements precisely and order slightly more than needed to account for cuts and mistakes. Utilize online calculators provided by suppliers like McFeely’s to estimate quantities accurately. Finally, read customer reviews to gauge reliability and quality, as experiences can vary widely between suppliers. With careful research, online wood suppliers can be a valuable resource for Des Moines residents tackling woodworking or construction projects.
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Reclaimed wood sources near Des Moines
Des Moines and its surrounding areas offer a treasure trove of reclaimed wood for those seeking sustainable and character-rich materials. One standout source is Reclaimed Timbers of Iowa, located just outside the city in Granger. This family-owned business specializes in salvaging wood from century-old barns, factories, and warehouses across the Midwest. Their inventory includes oak, pine, and even rare hardwoods like walnut, each piece telling a story through its weathered texture and unique grain patterns. For DIY enthusiasts or contractors, they provide custom milling services to transform raw beams into ready-to-use planks, flooring, or furniture components.
Another notable option is Urban Evolutions in West Des Moines, which focuses on urban reclamation. They source wood from demolished buildings, bridges, and industrial sites within Iowa’s cities, giving new life to materials that might otherwise end up in landfills. Their showroom features pre-finished pieces, such as live-edge slabs and reclaimed barn doors, ideal for adding rustic charm to modern spaces. Urban Evolutions also offers workshops on working with reclaimed wood, making it a great resource for both beginners and seasoned craftsmen.
For those willing to venture slightly farther, The Wood Yard in Ames is worth the trip. This supplier combines reclaimed wood with sustainably harvested options, catering to a wide range of projects. Their reclaimed selection often includes larger quantities of Douglas fir and cedar, salvaged from old silos and farm structures. They also provide detailed documentation on the wood’s origin, appealing to buyers who value transparency in their sourcing.
When sourcing reclaimed wood, it’s crucial to inspect for quality and suitability. Look for signs of rot, insect damage, or excessive warping, as these can compromise the material’s integrity. Additionally, consider the wood’s intended use—softer woods like pine may be better for decorative elements, while hardwoods like oak are ideal for high-traffic flooring or structural applications. Always ask suppliers about their cleaning and treatment processes to ensure the wood is safe for indoor use.
Incorporating reclaimed wood into your project not only adds historical depth but also reduces environmental impact by repurposing existing materials. Whether you’re renovating a home, crafting custom furniture, or designing a commercial space, Des Moines’ local suppliers offer a wealth of options to bring your vision to life sustainably.
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Frequently asked questions
You can buy wood in Des Moines at local lumberyards like Economy Lumber or big-box stores such as Home Depot and Lowe’s. Specialty wood can also be found at Woodcraft of Des Moines.
Yes, reclaimed wood is available at places like Reclaimed Des Moines and Habitat for Humanity ReStore, offering sustainable and unique options for projects.
For exotic or hardwoods, check out Woodcraft of Des Moines or Economy Lumber, which carry a wide selection of specialty woods for high-end projects.
