Located in the Cedar Valley Region, Waterloo is best known as the center of agriculture manufacturing in Iowa. This major city’s economic sector includes businesses in retail, education, healthcare, and insurance. One of the reasons companies are considering putting up a business in town is due to its low cost of living. With a diverse culture and community, Waterloo appeals to families and professionals who are looking to settle in a thriving city.

When hiring a contractor, some of the most important considerations should include the company’s expertise, experience, and scope of services. Before signing with a contractor, make sure you’ve reviewed the firm’s portfolio and list of references. In this list, we gathered the best commercial contractors in Waterloo to help you transform your concept into reality. Each firm was picked for its credentials, years of service, and quality of work.


Woodruff Construction

1717 Falls Avenue, Waterloo, IA 50701

Since 1956, Woodruff Construction has been building the finest commercial establishments across Waterloo and Iowa. Operating for more than 60 years, the well-respected contractor has been recognized for producing exceptional quality build-outs in the commercial, retail, restaurant, and office sectors. The employee-owned firm offers a full scope of construction services that includes everything from design-build to project development and construction management. With offices located in Waterloo, Ames, Fort Dodge, and the rest of Iowa, the company is fully equipped to provide building services at the highest standards.

Over the years, the award-winning contractor has been recognized several times for delivering outstanding projects. In 2021, two of the firm’s owner-employees were honored with the Master Builder Achievement Award by the Master Builders of Iowa. One of the company’s most prominent projects is the Twin Lakes Grocery & Grill. Woodruff Construction was tasked to demolish the existing structure and built a new establishment using glass overhead doors, reclaimed barn wood, and custom-made concrete countertops.


Peters Construction Corporation

901 Blackhawk Road, Waterloo, IA 50701

Peters Construction Corporation is a veteran construction company that has been serving clients throughout Waterloo for over 70 years. The trusted contractor is known for producing a wide range of projects, focusing on community and commercial build-outs. From retail and school to religious and medical institutions, the company uses high-quality materials across all project sizes and scopes. Composed of an amazing team of skilled and experienced workers, the firm promises and delivers excellence on every project. 

At Peters Construction Corporation, the general contractor is dedicated to providing a safe environment for its employees and clients. With a direct approach, each team member is highly involved in the project including taking care of the smallest detail. In 2016, the company was recognized for its impressive craftsmanship with the Iowa Preservation Award. George’s Local in Cedar Falls serves as one of the contractor’s most notable projects. Peters Construction renovated the existing structure transforming it into a hip and cool restaurant with the addition of an outdoor dining area.


Cardinal Construction

1246 Martin Road, Waterloo, IA 50701

Cardinal Construction has been recognized for its ability to deliver extraordinary commercial construction projects for over 127 years. The well-established construction firm caters to commercial clients throughout Iowa. Since its inception, the Waterloo-based contractor has produced numerous successful projects in various sectors including healthcare, education, industrial, and senior living. From small to large-scale projects, the general contractor has earned a positive reputation in the industry for consistently delivering super quality build-outs.

As an employee-owned company, Cardinal Construction is made up of a collaborative team of exceptional leaders, builders, and project managers. Each member is highly committed to making sure clients are 100% satisfied throughout the entire process by taking care of the client’s requirements and aspirations. The Cedar Valley SportsPlex in Waterloo is a noteworthy project of the firm. For this facility, the company was assigned to build unique spaces that can accommodate the client’s various needs. The multi-use sports complex was designed to function as a venue for tournaments, team practices, and fitness classes.


Huff Contracting

1310 Grandview Avenue, Waterloo, IA 50703

Waterloo-based Huff Contracting is a full-service construction company dedicated to providing the most efficient building solutions to clients across Iowa. Established in 1946, the general contractor has developed a strong reputation as a trustworthy and reliable builder. With numerous successful projects completed over the past 70 years, the construction firm is committed to exceeding client expectations. Operating in the construction business for decades, the company has formed partnerships with many top brands and companies in the retail and restaurant industries.

Founded by John P. Huff Sr., the family-owned and operated company is anchored on the values of trust. With an extensive background and experience in construction, John and his team specialize in creating solutions that are creative, practical, and functional, and the firm does so at a reasonable price. The firm is known for delivering quality workmanship from conception to completion and works with the top subcontractors in the area. The KWWL in Waterloo is one of the company’s most distinguished projects. Huff Contracting was commissioned to renovate the four-story building.


Hauptly Construction Company

2906 Violet Drive, Waterloo, IA 50701

Hauptly Construction Company is an established commercial contractor serving clients in Waterloo and the surrounding area. In business for over 60 years, the general contractor specializes in design-build services and focuses on commercial projects and commercial grain storage systems. Since the firm was established, Hauptly Construction has worked on a wide range of projects in various industries throughout Northeast Iowa. The company provides clients with complete construction services including design-engineering, construction management, pre-engineered buildings, general construction, and millwright services.

Hauptly Construction has formed long-lasting partnerships with the leading suppliers in Iowa. The firm also built an impressive portfolio and many of its clients are repeat customers and referrals. From its humble beginnings, founder Carroll Hauptly grew the company into providing high-quality workmanship and customer service for homeowners and businesses across the state. Over the years, the reputable contractor has worked with prominent clients including Harley Davidson, Home Depot, and Lowe’s.