Business Details
33 Years
experience
Your Trusted Des Moines Handyman for Home Improvement & Remodeling
Founded in 1993 by Jim Cunningham, Doors Of Distinction has built a reputation for excellence in home improvement and repair services across Des Moines and central Iowa. With over three decades of experience in the door and home renovation industry, we specialize in delivering precise, detail-oriented solutions tailored to each client's unique needs. Our team adheres to Iowa's Lead Safe Renovator practices to ensure the safety of your family during any project involving existing finishes. We pride ourselves on offering personalized service, where every job is completed with meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to leaving your space clean and organized.Our work spans from essential handyman tasks to comprehensive remodeling projects, including storm doors, decks, bathrooms, and custom room designs. Backed by a worry-free installation warranty, our expert craftsmanship has earned the trust of homeowners for generations, with many clients returning for repeat projects over decades. We believe in direct communication with our clients, ensuring transparency and reliability from the first consultation to the final walkthrough. Our dedication to quality, combined with Jim's hands-on approach to every project, guarantees results that enhance both the functionality and value of your home.
Services
Storm doors
Deck construction
Bathroom remodeling
Window projects
Home security installations
Basement remodeling
Custom room design
Lighting replacement
Furniture assembly
Snow plowing
Details
- Year established: 1993
Highlights and features
- We offer three decades of experience in home improvement and door installation.
- Our owner personally oversees every project from start to finish.
- We follow Iowa's Lead Safe Renovator practices for family safety.
- Our work enhances home value through precise, quality craftsmanship.
- We provide clean, organized service with a worry-free installation warranty.
What people say
Professionalism, skill, precision
Trustworthy and easy to work with
Quality work
Great advice, prompt attention
Outstanding craftsmanship
Services
Storm doors
We install custom storm doors that enhance home security while protecting against harsh weather conditions. Our solutions combine durability with aesthetic appeal, featuring precise measurements and expert installation. Clients benefit from increased energy efficiency and a welcoming entrance that complements their home's architecture.
Bathroom remodeling
Our team transforms bathrooms with modern fixtures, improved layouts, and water-efficient solutions. Projects include complete overhauls or targeted updates to sinks, showers, and storage systems. Homeowners gain functional spaces that maximize comfort while maintaining structural integrity and safety standards.
Deck construction
We build durable decks and porches using premium materials designed to withstand Iowa's climate. Each project includes structural planning, code compliance checks, and finishing touches like railings and lighting. Clients receive expanded outdoor spaces perfect for entertainment and property value enhancement.
Window projects
Our window replacement services improve energy efficiency while maintaining historical accuracy in older homes. We handle everything from cracked pane repairs to full-frame installations, ensuring proper sealing and insulation. Homeowners benefit from reduced utility costs and enhanced natural lighting.
Snow plowing
We provide reliable snow removal services for driveways in NW Des Moines and surrounding areas. Our equipment handles heavy snowfall efficiently while protecting pavement surfaces. Clients receive timely service with customizable schedules to maintain safe access during winter months.
People
Jim Cunningham
Owner
Jim founded Skilled Hands in 1993 after three decades in the door installation industry. He personally oversees every project, combining technical expertise with creative problem-solving. Known for remembering past clients and their projects, Jim brings a personal touch to each job while maintaining strict quality standards.
Questions
What types of home projects do you handle?
We specialize in storm doors, bathroom remodeling, deck construction, window replacements, and custom interior projects like wine cellars and hobby rooms.
How long have you served the Des Moines area?
Jim Cunningham has worked in central Iowa since 1993, completing hundreds of projects across Des Moines and surrounding communities.
Are you certified for lead-safe renovations?
Yes, our team follows Iowa's Lead Safe Renovator practices to protect families during projects involving older paint finishes.
Do you offer snow removal services?
We provide driveway snow plowing in NW Des Moines, Clive, Urbandale, Johnston, and Windsor Heights with 25+ years of winter maintenance experience.
What warranty do you provide?
All installations include a worry-free warranty covering workmanship and materials, reflecting our confidence in long-term project quality.
How can I get a project quote?
Call Jim directly at 515-277-5993 for a free, no-obligation quote with personalized project recommendations.
Reviews (7)
Dawn Work-MaKinne
Oct 14, 2021
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We are multi-project customers of Doors of Distinction, and this was another stellar experience. Jim worked with us getting the patio doors selected for our home, with all the right colors and hardware. He kept in touch with us during the delivery process. He and his co-installer Brad worked incredibly hard installing the doors perfectly, and we love them. They look terrific, and the increase in insulation, along with the decrease in outdoor noise, are amazing. We are just so pleased with the whole project, and look forward to our next project.
David Trachtenberg
Sep 26, 2021
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Jim did a great job on my front door with side light and storm door. He spent time with us picking out the right products and kept in touch as the products were coming in. Great attention to detail during the install and superior customer service. This was my second time using this company and I would use them again.
Dan Anderson
Jan 15, 2020
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Jim did a great job installing our new door with side lights. We are slow to make decisions, but he was very patient in helping us get exactly the door we wanted. His attention to detail and craftsmanship is impressive. I'd recommend him to anyone replacing or upgrading their door(s).
Hope Wood
May 22, 2019
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Jim was very responsive and we got the door selected and installed much faster than expected. The door manufacturing company he uses is based in Iowa and it is custom made but is priced the same or less than what you buy in a store. We really enjoy the new screen door and will work with Jim again if a project comes up.
A. Lundquist
Jan 20, 2018
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Jim did such a great job throughout the entire process. Our front door had been installed by a previous owner who cut the door to a custom size to make it fit. You could see through the cracks in our front door to outside. We reached out to Pella first and were incredibly discouraged with their customer service and ability to stick within our budget. I was then referred to Doors of Distinction. Jim sat down with us to pick the best option and stayed on budget. He definitely exceeded our expectations.
Julie Economaki
Dec 31, 2016
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Jim installed one new door, and he repaired and winterized others. His work is excellent. The installation and repairs made a big difference in the comfort of our home this winter. He is dependable, professional and true to his word. The cost was reasonable too! Jim recently helped us with a minor issue and when I apologized for calling him here for such a small thing that I should have been able to address myself, he merely replied that it is why he guarantees his work.
James Sampica
Dec 02, 2016
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Jim's easy to work with and it's clear his work is very professional. He will go through the entire process of selection with you, make recommendations, and itemize and explain all costs so there are no surprises. After the work is done he thoroughly cleans up after himself.
