Helpful answers about our design process, services, what it’s like to work with DSM Designs, expectations and more. The information provided in these FAQs is for general guidance only and is subject to change without notice. While we strive to keep content accurate and up to date, these answers do not constitute a binding agreement or guarantee.
We design, manufacture, and install custom salon and spa furniture. This includes styling stations, reception desks, retail displays, and other custom-built fixtures tailored to your space, workflow, and brand.
All of our furniture is proudly manufactured in the United States in our Iowa-based facility, where each piece is built and quality-checked by our team.
Watch this quick TikTok video to learn how to order products from our website. In this example, we use our HANA styling station to walk you through the process step by step, making it easy to follow.
@dsmdesigns How to order our most popular station 🖤#salonowner #saloninspo #salondesign ♬ original sound – DSM Designs
Visit our homepage at dsmdesigns.net to get started!
LTL shipping:
Due to the size of your crate, the shipping company may not be able to guarantee a lift gate. I always request this service, but if they are unable to provide it, you will be responsible for unloading your units from the truck. Please ensure you have a few strong people available for this. You can confirm this when they contact you to schedule the delivery appointment. Note that this service does not include setup, assembly, or removal of packaging materials.
Your item will be shipped to a local delivery terminal. The terminal will contact you when your item arrives to arrange a delivery appointment. Deliveries are made between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, and will be scheduled within a 4-hour window. A signature is required for all deliveries, and the driver cannot complete the delivery without a signed receipt. Please verify that you receive the correct number of units listed on the delivery form before signing.
Upon delivery, inspect the crate for any damage. Each crate or pallet has a “do not stack” cone; if this is damaged, please take a photo showing the damage, call me, and inspect the items for any damage before signing the delivery paperwork. If you notice any damage to the crate, write “crate damaged/possible concealed damage” on the delivery ticket before signing, and take photos in case a claim needs to be filed. If you decide to refuse delivery due to damage, note “refused due to damage” on the delivery ticket before signing and photograph the damage.
You will need a screwdriver or screw gun to uncrate the units. Be sure to inspect the items within 24 hours of delivery. Most of our cabinetry is heavy, so have a few strong people available to move the units into your space. Do not lift any unit by the shelves.
Many cabinets are protected with a wooden skid on the top and bottom. Please remove these during installation.
If you find any damage, please email a description, photos, and a copy of the delivery ticket to service@dsmdesigns.net to initiate a claim. Freight claims cannot be processed unless damage is noted on the delivery form.
Truckload shipping:
If you experience any issues after receiving your order, please send an email to service@dsmdesigns.net. Sending messages to this email will ensure a prompt response. When reaching out, please include your salon name, a detailed description of the issue and photos and/or videos showcasing the problem. Providing this information will help us identify the correct solution.
I will send you the shipping info, including the driver’s phone number once the truck has loaded. If you do not hear from the driver the morning of the delivery, please reach out to them.
You will be responsible for unloading the truck. The driver is not allowed to help.
Most of our cabinetry is heavy and you will need a few strong people to carry the units into your space. Units can weigh between 200lbs – 800 lbs. We recommend having two wheeled dollies and four wheeled carts available to assist you during the unloading process. If you need guidance on which type of cart is recommended, please reach out. Do not lift any unit by the shelves.
Please make sure you inspect items for damage before unloading. If you notice any damage you must note it on the delivery form and take pictures. Do not sign the delivery paperwork unless you have recorded damage. If there is any damage please email a description of damage, pictures and a copy of the delivery ticket to melissa@dsmdesigns.net to start a claim. Freight claims cannot be processed unless damage is noted on delivery form.
Most cabinets have protective wood skid on the bottom/top of the unit to protect it when moving the units around. Please make sure to remove these during installation.
Up to two hours of unloading time is included in the price. Anything after will result in additional charges. Shipping packing/crates are the responsibility of the salon to dispose of. If left inside the truck additional charges will apply.
For larger trucks, we are able to apply a lock seal for added security. We also place a truck seal on the vehicle to ensure that the driver does not open it to accommodate another load. Please verify that the seal number matches the one provided and that it remains intact upon delivery.
Damage must be reported within 24 hours of delivery
Missing this window may void claims
Freight carrier contacts you for delivery appointment
Delivery windows are usually 4-hour scheduled blocks
Be ready to unload heavy items if liftgate is unavailable
DSM Designs is not responsible for building code compliance
Customers must verify local/state regulations before ordering
1. Why is my spa furniture wobbling or uneven?
This is often caused by an uneven floor or improper leveling during installation.
Solution: Use adjustable leveling feet (if available) or place shims under the base to stabilize the unit. Always ensure the floor is flat before final placement.
2. Why is the surface cracking, peeling, or bubbling?
This usually happens due to moisture exposure, poor sealing, or low-quality laminate/finish.
Solution: Use moisture-resistant materials, reseal exposed edges, and avoid prolonged water contact. Replace damaged panels if needed.
3. Why are drawers or doors sticking or not closing properly?
Humidity changes can cause wood expansion or hardware misalignment.
Solution: Adjust hinges and drawer slides, and ensure proper ventilation to reduce moisture buildup.
4. Why is the furniture swelling or warping over time?
Excess humidity or water exposure is the most common cause in spa environments.
Solution: Use water-resistant materials (marine-grade plywood, PVC, or sealed MDF) and maintain proper room humidity levels.
5. Why are finishes fading or discoloring?
This can be caused by strong cleaning chemicals, UV exposure, or poor-quality coatings.
Solution: Use spa-safe, non-abrasive cleaners and apply UV-resistant finishes or protective coatings.
6. Why is hardware (handles, hinges, rails) loosening?
Frequent use and vibration in busy spa environments can loosen fittings.
Solution: Periodically tighten screws and upgrade to commercial-grade stainless steel hardware.
7. Why does my custom spa furniture not fit perfectly in the space?
This usually results from inaccurate measurements or wall/floor irregularities.
Solution: Always measure multiple points in the space and account for trim, outlets, and uneven walls before ordering.
8. Why is there a strong odor coming from new spa furniture?
New materials, adhesives, or finishes may release VOCs initially.
Solution: Allow furniture to air out in a well-ventilated space for several days before use.
1. Why are my lights flickering or not staying consistently bright?
This is often caused by a failing or underpowered power supply.
Solution: Replace the power supply with a properly rated unit that matches the voltage and wattage requirements of your system.
2. Why won’t my lighting system turn on at all?
A complete power failure or disconnected wiring may be the cause.
Solution: Check all connections and replace the power supply if no output is detected.
3. Why are some sections of my lights dimmer than others?
This is usually due to voltage drop or insufficient power distribution.
Solution: Use a higher-capacity power supply or add additional power injection points.
4. Why are my lights randomly turning on and off?
This can happen when the power supply is unstable or overheating.
Solution: Ensure proper ventilation and replace the power supply if instability continues.
5. Why do my lights change behavior after running for a while?
Thermal overload or aging components are common causes.
Solution: Allow proper cooling and replace worn-out power supplies or controllers if needed.
6. Why is my controller not responding properly?
A weak or inconsistent power source can affect controller performance.
Solution: Verify power stability and replace the power supply if fluctuations are detected.
7. Why do my lights reset or flash when multiple devices are connected?
The power supply may be overloaded.
Solution: Upgrade to a higher wattage power supply or distribute the load across multiple units.
My order arrived damaged. What should I do?
Inspect packaging and product immediately upon delivery
Write “damaged” on the delivery receipt before signing
Take photos of damage and crate condition
Report within 24 hours via email (service@dsmdesigns.net)
Without documented damage at delivery, claims may be rejected.