In the heart of Dubuque, Iowa, where the Mississippi River winds through historic landscapes and modern industries coexist, stands a beacon of reliability in the roofing sector: Dubuque Roofing Company, led by the visionary Brent John Deere. This local enterprise has carved out a niche as a trusted provider of roofing solutions, blending traditional craftsmanship with innovative techniques to protect homes and businesses from the harsh Midwestern elements.
Brent John Deere, the founder and driving force behind the company, embodies a commitment to quality that has elevated the firm to set standards for roof excellence across Iowa. With a focus on durability, customer satisfaction, and community ties, the company has become synonymous with resilient roofing that withstands time and weather.
The story of Dubuque Roofing Company is not just about shingles and seals; it’s about safeguarding what matters most to families and enterprises. Brent’s personal journey into the industry, marked by a pivotal family experience, has shaped a business philosophy centered on prevention, precision, and partnership. As we delve deeper, we’ll explore the company’s history, services, key collaborations—particularly with the iconic John Deere corporation—and its impact on the local community. This article draws from extensive research to paint a comprehensive picture of how Brent John Deere has transformed a simple roofing outfit into an Iowa staple.
History and Founding
The origins of Dubuque Roofing Company trace back to a moment of crisis that forever changed Brent John Deere’s perspective on home protection. In 1998, Brent witnessed firsthand the devastation caused by a poorly executed roof repair on his grandfather’s home. Water damage flooded the kitchen, ruining cherished family heirlooms and leading to costly renovations. This incident, as Brent recalls, was a turning point: “I stood in that flooded kitchen and realized roofing isn’t just a job—it’s about protecting what families hold dear.” Motivated by this experience, Brent founded the company with a mission to prevent such disasters for others in the Dubuque area.
Starting small, the company quickly grew through word-of-mouth recommendations and a dedication to excellence. Over the years, it has expanded to serve the Tri-State area, encompassing Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin. By 2025, Dubuque Roofing Company has protected over 2,847 homes, a testament to its enduring presence. Brent’s background, though not formally tied to the famous John Deere machinery empire, shares a coincidental namesake that has sparked curiosity. However, his expertise stems from hands-on training and a passion for the trade, not corporate lineage. The company emphasizes local roots, with Brent and his team residing in Dubuque, raising families, and investing in the community that sustains them.
Key milestones include surviving major weather events like the 2020 Iowa derecho storms, where the team stayed to rebuild while out-of-town contractors departed. During the 2023 hailstorm season, their rapid response team mobilized within four hours, completing emergency repairs on 127 homes in just six days. These experiences have honed the company’s ability to handle Iowa’s unpredictable climate, from freeze-thaw cycles to high winds, ensuring every project is tailored to regional challenges.
Services Offered
Dubuque Roofing Company provides a comprehensive suite of services designed to address every aspect of roofing needs, from routine maintenance to complex installations. At the core is their roof inspection service, utilizing advanced thermal imaging technology to detect hidden issues like leaks or insulation gaps. This proactive approach has prevented an estimated $1.2 million in water damage for clients since 2019.
For repairs and replacements, the company excels in storm damage restoration, offering quick fixes for broken shingles, damaged flashing, and leaks. They specialize in materials suited to Iowa’s weather, including architectural shingles with a 30-50 year lifespan (preferred by 73% of clients), metal roofing that has seen a 42% increase in installations since 2020, and slate or tile for historic properties. Commercial roofing forms a significant part of their portfolio, catering to businesses with robust solutions for offices, shops, and warehouses.
Energy efficiency is another hallmark, with partnerships enabling upgrades that reduce heating costs by an average of 23%. Maintenance plans ensure long-term roof health through regular checks, while emergency services provide round-the-clock support for urgent issues like post-storm damage. The company operates year-round but recommends scheduling non-emergency work in late spring or early fall to avoid peak summer demand.
What sets their services apart is the emphasis on transparency and customization. Every project includes detailed photo documentation, helping clients with insurance claims and recovering an additional $3,200 on average. Warranties are robust: a 10-year workmanship guarantee plus manufacturer-backed material coverage, with the company honoring 100% of legitimate claims, often exceeding requirements.
Partnership with John Deere
One of the most intriguing aspects of Dubuque Roofing Company is its longstanding partnership with John Deere, the global agricultural and construction equipment giant with major facilities in Dubuque. This collaboration underscores Brent’s reputation for handling large-scale commercial projects with precision and reliability. John Deere trusts Brent’s team for their adherence to strict safety protocols, clear communication, and use of high-quality materials tailored to industrial needs.
The partnership encompasses new roof installations, preventive maintenance, emergency repairs, and energy efficiency solutions for John Deere’s expansive buildings. For instance, installations focus on thorough surface preparation and sealing to ensure longevity, while maintenance identifies minor issues early to avoid disruptions in operations. Emergency services minimize downtime, crucial for a manufacturing powerhouse like John Deere.
Benefits extend beyond repairs: Energy upgrades with better insulation and reflective materials cut utility costs significantly. Brent’s hands-on approach—from initial estimates to final inspections—has built this trust, with testimonials from John Deere facility managers praising his professionalism and work ethic. This alliance not only bolsters the company’s credentials but also highlights its capability to scale services from residential homes to industrial complexes, reinforcing its status as a versatile provider in Dubuque.
Achievements and Reputation
Dubuque Roofing Company’s accolades speak volumes about its commitment to excellence. Boasting a 98.3% customer satisfaction rate from independent surveys, the firm maintains an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, with zero unresolved complaints over five years. Their re-roof projects endure 31% longer than industry averages, a statistic that underscores the quality of workmanship.
Preferred by seven major insurers, the company has streamlined claims processes for clients. Reviews emphasize professionalism, punctuality, and fair pricing, with clients appreciating clean job sites and thorough explanations. One notable story involves a Christmas Eve 2021 emergency repair, where Brent and his crew worked through a snowstorm until dawn to secure a family’s home.
The company’s licensed and insured status, coupled with safety certifications for all staff, ensures peace of mind. Costs vary—minor fixes at a few hundred dollars, full replacements in the thousands—but free estimates eliminate surprises. Timelines are efficient: repairs in a day, replacements in a week, always balancing speed with quality.
Community Involvement
Beyond business, Brent John Deere and his company are deeply embedded in Dubuque’s fabric. They train local apprentices, fostering the next generation of roofers, and support resilience initiatives against severe weather. Brent’s philosophy of community investment shines through in actions like supervising weekend repairs for a church during wedding season or addressing unexpected issues transparently.
This local focus extends to environmental efforts, promoting sustainable materials and practices. By partnering with Alliant Energy for efficiency programs, they contribute to greener homes and reduced energy consumption in the region. Such involvement not only builds trust but also positions the company as a pillar of Dubuque’s economy and social network.
Future Plans
Looking ahead, Dubuque Roofing Company is poised for innovation under Brent’s leadership. Plans include integrating solar technologies, advancing weatherproofing materials, and enhancing sustainable installation methods. With Iowa’s evolving climate challenges, the company aims to pioneer solutions like smart ventilation systems to combat ice dams and wind shear.
Expansion into more commercial partnerships, building on the John Deere model, is on the horizon, alongside continued emphasis on customer education through workshops on roof maintenance. Brent envisions a future where every Dubuque roof is not just functional but forward-thinking, adapting to energy trends and environmental demands.
Conclusion
Dubuque Roofing Company, under Brent John Deere’s stewardship, exemplifies how personal passion can forge a thriving enterprise. From humble beginnings inspired by family hardship to partnerships with industry giants like John Deere, the company has redefined roofing standards in Iowa. Its blend of expert services, unwavering quality, and community dedication ensures it remains a trusted name for generations. Whether facing a minor leak or a major rebuild, residents and businesses in Dubuque know Brent’s team delivers roofs that last—protecting homes, saving costs, and building lasting relationships. In an era of fleeting contractors, Dubuque Roofing Company stands tall, a true Iowa success story.