Business Details
31 Years
experience
Hardwood Floor Installation & Refinishing Experts
Barnum Floors has been a family-owned and operated hardwood flooring specialist in Des Moines since 1995. Our team of certified craftsmen brings decades of combined experience to every installation, refinishing project, and custom design. We combine technical expertise with personalized service, offering on-site consultations to understand client needs before executing projects with precision. Our commitment to quality includes using advanced dustless sanding systems, proprietary finishing techniques, and NWFA-certified methodologies.With over 25 employees trained through the National Wood Flooring Association, we maintain rigorous standards while providing tailored solutions for residential clients across Central Iowa. Our showroom in Clive serves as both a design center and educational resource, helping homeowners make informed decisions about hardwood selection, installation processes, and maintenance practices.
Services
Hardwood Installation
Floor Refinishing
Custom Patterns
Staircase Installation
Wood Education
Buff & Coat Service
Oil Renewal Service
Details
- Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
- Our team includes NWFA-certified craftsmen with 12-28 years of tenure
- We provide on-site consultations before starting any project
- We use proprietary dustless sanding systems to minimize home disruption
- We offer complete project transparency from design to completion
- Our craftsmen undergo mandatory NWFA University training annually
Associations and certifications
- National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA)
What people say
Exceptional craftsmanship
Outstanding communication
Beautiful results
Expert knowledge
Professional team
Services
Hardwood Installation
Our hardwood installation service combines technical precision with artistic craftsmanship. We handle complete installations for new construction and renovations, offering solid and engineered flooring options. Our on-site consultation evaluates your space to recommend wood species, patterns, and finishes that complement your home's architecture and lifestyle needs while maintaining structural integrity.
Custom Patterns
We create intricate custom floor patterns including herringbone, basketweave, and Versailles designs. Our team implements standard decorative patterns and develops unique medallions or inlays. This service transforms flooring into statement pieces while maintaining functional durability through precise engineering techniques that accommodate wood's natural movement.
Floor Refinishing
Professional floor refinishing restores aged hardwood to like-new condition. Our process includes dustless sanding, wood replacement where needed, and multi-coat finishing. We employ modern techniques that minimize airborne particulates while preserving structural elements. This service extends flooring lifespan while maintaining historical character in older homes.
Staircase Installation
We design and install custom hardwood staircases matching any architectural style. Our craftsmen create cohesive transitions between flooring and stair elements, implementing safety features without compromising aesthetics. The service includes material selection, structural engineering, and precision installation for both new construction and renovation projects.
Wood Education
Our educational resources help clients make informed material choices. We explain hardwood grading systems, environmental impact considerations, and maintenance requirements. This service covers technical aspects like floating vs glue-down installations while providing practical advice for long-term care, ensuring clients understand their investment's lifecycle.
People
Gary
Owner
With 28 years of experience, Gary leads Barnum Floors' operations. Certified through multiple NWFA programs, he oversees project execution while maintaining hands-on involvement in complex installations.
Kathy
Owner
A University of Minnesota graduate with 25 years of leadership experience, Kathy manages business operations and industry relations while directing client services initiatives.
Austin
Sales & Service & Sanding Manager
As 25-year veteran, Austin coordinates sales and service operations. Certified through NWFA and Bona training programs, he ensures technical excellence in sanding and finishing applications.
Amberle
Sales Consultant
A key client contact, Amberle provides personalized flooring solutions. Certified through NWFA training, she combines technical knowledge with design expertise to guide clients through material selections.
Nelson
Installer
With 26 years of experience, Nelson leads installation teams. Trained through NWFA University, he ensures precise execution of complex flooring patterns and transitions.
Questions
What hardwood flooring options do you recommend for homes with pets?
We suggest durable species like white oak or maple with scratch-resistant finishes. Our team provides specific product recommendations during on-site consultations based on your household's needs.
Do you offer color matching for existing hardwood floors?
Yes, we match new installations to existing floors using advanced staining and finishing techniques. Our craftsmen ensure seamless transitions between old and new wood surfaces.
Can damaged hardwood floors be repaired instead of replaced?
We assess each floor's condition to determine if repairs are viable. Our dustless sanding and wood replacement techniques frequently restore floors without full replacement.
What is the difference between solid and engineered hardwood flooring?
Solid hardwood is 3/4" thick and installed as solid planks, while engineered flooring has a wood veneer over a stable core. We explain pros and cons during initial consultations based on your space.
How long does the hardwood installation process typically take?
Most installations take 3-5 days depending on space size and complexity. We provide detailed timelines after assessing your specific project requirements during the planning phase.
What maintenance do hardwood floors require after installation?
We provide care instructions including proper cleaning methods and schedules. Regular maintenance typically involves sweeping, damp mopping with appropriate solutions, and periodic finish inspections.
Reviews (4)
Kim Ruter
Nov 12, 2021
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Professional process and immaculate workmanship! One of the best parts we experienced when building our home.
Scott Spetman
Sep 25, 2021
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I have worked with these guys for years - they do an amazing job!! Gary, Kathy and the whole staff are so easy to work with and they stand behind everything that they do. I've always been impressed with their knowledge of products and their attention to detail in lacing in to existing floors and matching existing stains. I highly recommend them.
Spencer Sobba
Sep 24, 2021
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It was the most professional experience Ive ever had working with any home remodel company. They refinished my floors and installed a new area of hardwood. The installers even noticed that the first wood delivered wouldnt be an exact match. From what I could tell the wood looked exactly the same but they made the change and it is insane how much this wood matches the old wood. They made all these changes before even sanding off the old hardwood so it didnt affect the timeline at all. They communicate so well and give you updates on schedule almost every week. The workers are extremely
Tammy D.
Sep 21, 2021
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We had an wonderful experience from planning to installation. They kept us informed of the schedule early and along the way. We had our existing hardwood refinished and new hardwood installed in two rooms that were carpet. They did an excellent job blending the floors together. I would highly recommend them for your hardwood flooring project.
