Precision trim, built-ins, basements, bars, and custom carpentry done by an Iowa carpenter who shows up when he says he will.
Straightforward and transparent, no unnecessary back-and-forth, no surprises at the end.
Call, text, or email with your project type, size, timeline, and photos if you have them. Andrew replies within 12–24 hours.
A free, no-obligation consultation to see the space, take measurements, and talk through your vision.
Within a few days, a clear breakdown of materials, labor, and timeline. What you see is what you pay.
Approve the quote and lock in a start date. A deposit may be collected depending on the project.
Andrew arrives on time, works efficiently, and keeps your home clean throughout the project.
A final walkthrough together, remaining payment is collected once you're satisfied.
Andrew Pender is a Central Iowa carpenter, born and raised in Johnston, with a genuine passion for precision craftsmanship. Since launching Pender Carpentry, Andrew has built a reputation across the greater Des Moines metro for quality work, honest communication, and showing up when he says he will.
When you hire Pender Carpentry, you get true craftsmanship from start to finish. With no strangers on your job site, just honest work and your home treated with the care it deserves.
From finish trim to custom carpentry, every project gets the same attention to detail.
Cabinet & door setting, wainscoting & staircase work, custom range hoods, coffered & tray ceilings, case, base, & crown molding, window trim, fireplace surrounds & entertainment centers. Left paint or stain ready.
Wall & ceiling framing, partitions, and full trim packages — Contracted or coordinated with your other trades.
Straight, L, U, and island bars, face frames, back bar shelving, glass rack framing, footrest blocking, and refrigerator framing, wet or dry bars.
Bookcase walls, entertainment centers, mudroom lockers, window seats, closet and pantry systems, scribed for a seamless fit.
Exterior trim, pergolas, sheds, porches, Demo work, horizontal lap or board & batten siding. Material choices built for Iowa's freeze-thaw cycles.
Ground-level, elevated, multi-level, wraparound, pool decks, footings below the frost line, code-compliant framing, permit guidance.
Pre-hung, bi-fold, bypass, pocket, passage, barn, and hidden door systems, full casing packages, wainscot surronds and window seat construction.
Size or Quantity Dependent
Rot replacement, stair and floor repair, trim matching, accent walls, and one-of-a-kind builds. If it's wood, ask.
Every estimate includes materials, labor, disposal, hardware, and travel within Polk County. Paint, caulking, electrical/plumbing/HVAC, permit fees, and countertop materials are typically handled on your own or with Andrews assistance.
| Project | Typical Duration | What Affects It |
|---|---|---|
| Interior Trim (whole home) | 3–7 days | Square footage, detail level, add-ons, ceiling heights |
| Single Room Trim | 1–2 days | Room size, number of doors/windows, custom features |
| Built-In Shelving | 1–3 days | Size, number of units, finish type |
| Custom / Repair Projects | 1–3 days | Scope determined at consultation |
| Basement Framing Only | 3–5 days | Square footage, soffit/bulkhead count |
| Full Basement Finish | 2–3 weeks | Room count, trim complexity, add-ons like bar/built-ins |
| Bar Build-Out | 3–7 days | Size, configuration, detail level |
| Deck (basic, ground level) | 3–5 days | Size, material choice, permit timing |
| Deck (elevated, multi-level) | 1–2 weeks | Height, complexity, weather |
Spring and summer book quickly — 4–8 weeks advance notice is ideal for larger projects. Interior work is available year-round.
Not every job fits a neat category. These are one-of-a-kind builds Andrew has taken on outside the standard services list.
Custom barn door built to fit specs/location, with or without slat panels: designed finish for a cohesive, custom look.
Built from scratch. Custom hardwood table build alongside a full wet bar
Built from scratch. Custom pantry shelving with built-in cubby and accessible wine rack. No wasted space.
Built for the game. Custom bat and helmet storage for a college dugout.
Custom ceiling build-out featuring horizontal poplar beams and poplar shiplap accents.
Updated pantry storage system with wrap-around floating shelves and base cabinets for added storage.
Skirt boards, handrail and newel post installation for a new construction stairway barricade.
Structural framing and ADA-compliant installation for safe, accessible, and reliable mobility.
Have something unusual in mind? Bring it to Andrew — he'll give an honest assessment of what's possible, and point you elsewhere if it's outside his scope.
For larger projects (typically over $1,000), a materials deposit may be requested before work begins, covering upfront lumber and hardware. Terms are always spelled out in the written estimate.
We are 100% licensed and insured. Contact Andrew directly for current licensing and insurance documentation, certificates of insurance are provided on request before any project begins.
Primarily Polk County and the surrounding metro; Ankeny, Johnston, Urbandale, West Des Moines, Altoona, Grimes, Waukee, and beyond into bordering cities or counties. Projects farther out are always open for discussion; distance may involve an additional fee.
Andrew assists with permit documentation and applications; permits are typically pulled in the homeowner's name. He's familiar with local building departments and builds every project to pass inspection.
In most cases, yes. Andrew can identify and source matching profiles for common styles, and create close matches for older or custom profiles. Bring a sample piece to your consultation if you can.
Pender Carpentry does the work: No unfamiliar faces on your job site, so you always know who's in your home and accountable for the work. We only operate with our known and trusted contacts.
Cash, check, and electronic payment are all accepted, typically due within one week of completion and your satisfaction confirmation. Andrew stands behind everything he builds, concerns raised during work or at the final walkthrough get made right before the job is considered done.
Spring and summer book quickly; interior work runs year-round. For larger projects, 4–8 weeks advance notice is ideal.
Andrew will follow up within 24 hours to talk about your project or to schedule an on-site consultation.