Real People. Reliable Results
Roofing, siding, gutters, windows, and decks installed by a crew you’ll know by name.
Founded on Experience
515 Exteriors was founded by Nick Wilkins and Christopher Smith to serve residential clients and homeowners associations (HOAs) in the Des Moines area. With decades of experience in construction, windows, and insurance, they built the company on expertise, clear communication, and care for every project. The name “515 Exteriors” reflects their local roots and commitment to being a long-term, reliable presence in the community.
Customer-First Approach
The company follows a detailed, customer-focused process for every project. Wilkins or Smith handle the initial inspection to gather thorough job notes, while project managers and crews perform daily walk-arounds and multiple inspections throughout the job. Homeowners are encouraged to hire third-party inspectors, and 515 Exteriors often waits several days after completion for a final walkthrough, giving clients time to review the work and ask questions. The team stays in constant contact through emails, texts, calls, and photos, keeping homeowners informed at every step.
Pride in Every Project
Attention to detail and craftsmanship set 515 Exteriors apart. The team treats every home as their own, carefully addressing key areas like roofing, siding, windows, gutters, flashing, and decking. Project managers Ben and Colton lead the crews on site daily, keeping projects on track and ensuring homeowners feel supported from start to finish. With preparation, quality, and hands-on service as priorities, 515 Exteriors delivers results that homeowners and HOAs can trust.
Meet the Owners
Chris and Nick enjoy every aspect of the construction and insurance field. They believe there is no project too big or too small. We sincerely hope that you give us the chance to earn your business, please give us a call for all of your exterior needs!
Nick Wilkins
Nick Wilkins graduated from Grinnell High School in 2001 and went on to earn a BA in Economics and Business Administration from Coe College in 2005, where he also played collegiate basketball. After relocating to Des Moines, Nick began his career with Pella Windows, spending over 16 years in the industry and developing deep expertise in window system selection and installation.
Over the past four years, Nick has expanded his experience to include roofing, siding, and gutter replacement for both residential and commercial properties. Outside of work, he enjoys lake time with his wife Kelly and their three kids—Emery, Jaxon, and Kaia. Nick also loves coaching youth sports, golfing, spending time outdoors, and staying connected with his community.
Chris Smith
Chris Smith graduated from Pella High School in 2010 and earned a degree in Economics from the University of Iowa. While in college, he began working in construction by framing houses to help pay for school. After graduation, Chris worked for several years in commercial construction at Hy-Vee Construction before transitioning into insurance adjusting.
As an adjuster, Chris gained extensive experience by responding to hurricane disasters across the East Coast, working as a local adjuster in Des Moines, and managing claims as a desk adjuster at a corporate office. In 2019, he began consulting for contractors on insurance claims and eventually returned to construction full-time. In his free time, Chris enjoys outdoor activities with his son Nash, including camping, hiking, canoeing, jiu jitsu, fishing, and pheasant hunting.
Meet the Team
Ben
Ben is a Project Manager at 515 Exteriors and has been with the company since its founding. After previously working with owners Chris and Nick for another contractor, Ben took a management position with 515 Exteriors shortly after its formation and has been here ever since. Ben manages a full range of projects, including roofing and siding, overseeing the work from start to finish and staying actively involved on site.
Ben values bringing a positive attitude and “good everyday values” to his work, showing up for his crew and supporting them through long hours in tough conditions. He also builds strong relationships with homeowners, checking in daily and making sure questions are answered promptly. From handling unexpected challenges to seeing a full roofing and siding project come together, Ben focuses on delivering results that make a visible difference in the communities 515 Exteriors serves.
Colten
Colten is a Project Coordinator at 515 Exteriors with a focus on interior quality control and customer satisfaction. He plays a key role in interior window installation, performing walkthroughs and final detail work to ensure every project meets 515’s high standards. Colten works closely with homeowners, walking through their homes after trim installation to confirm they are satisfied with the finished work and addressing any feedback before finalization.
Colten is a self-described perfectionist who ensures even the smallest details, from caulking to paint touch-ups, are done right. He works closely with crews to keep projects on schedule while managing timelines, materials, and punch lists. Colten values the strong relationships and craftsmanship that set 515 Exteriors apart and is committed to delivering quality work homeowners can trust.
Contact Us for An Estimate or More Information
West Des Moines, IA 50266
