Business Details
43 Years
experience
Your Trusted Construction Partner in Dubuque, IA
Portzen Construction has been a trusted leader in commercial and industrial construction since 1983. Our expertise spans general contracting, concrete, excavating, carpentry, and plumbing services, with a unique ability to self-perform critical project components. As the largest union contractor in Dubuque, Iowa, we combine decades of experience with a commitment to quality, safety, and client satisfaction.Our team's technical proficiency and dedication to on-time, on-budget delivery have earned us long-standing relationships across Iowa, Southwestern Wisconsin, and the tri-state region. With specialized divisions like Dubuque Plumbing & Heating, we provide comprehensive solutions tailored to complex construction challenges.
Services
General Contracting
Excavating
Concrete
Carpentry
Plumbing
Design Build
Roofing
Flood Mitigation
Medical Gas Piping
Union Affiliation
Details
- Year established: 1983
Highlights and features
- We self-perform 80% of project work including concrete, excavating, and carpentry
- Over 40 years of experience serving Iowa and the tri-state region
- Largest union contractor in the Dubuque area with certified safety programs
- Full-service plumbing division with medical gas and process piping expertise
- Proven track record with thousands of completed commercial and industrial projects
Associations and certifications
- Associated General Contractors of America
- Iowa Concrete Paving Association
- Master Builders of Iowa
- Dubuque Area Labor-Management Council
What people say
Speed and quality of work
Knowledge and expertise
Impressed with the speed
Provide value added services
Respected businessman
Services
General Contracting
Portzen Construction provides comprehensive general contracting services for commercial and industrial projects. Our team manages all phases from design coordination to final delivery, ensuring quality control and adherence to schedules. With in-house expertise in construction management and design-build solutions, we deliver efficient, cost-effective results for complex projects.
Concrete Services
Our concrete division handles flatwork, structural concrete, paving, and Tilt-Up panels for commercial and infrastructure projects. With specialized equipment and experienced crews, we ensure precision in foundations, parking lots, and structural components. Our work meets strict industry standards for durability and performance in demanding applications.
Excavating
Portzen's excavating services include building excavation, utility installation, and site demolition. Our fleet of modern equipment and skilled operators handle storm sewers, water mains, and complex grading projects. We specialize in preparing sites for commercial development while maintaining compliance with environmental and safety regulations.
Carpentry
Our carpentry division performs rough and finish carpentry, framing, and Duro-Last roofing installations. With union-certified craftsmen, we deliver precision in structural woodwork and interior finishes. The team handles residential, commercial, and industrial projects, ensuring quality in every phase of wood construction.
Plumbing Services
Through Dubuque Plumbing & Heating, we offer commercial and industrial plumbing solutions including hydronic heating, medical gas piping, and process piping systems. Our licensed technicians install and maintain complex plumbing infrastructure for healthcare facilities, manufacturing plants, and commercial buildings, ensuring code compliance and system reliability.
People
Mike Portzen
Chairman of the Board
Founder of Portzen Construction with over 40 years of industry experience. Recognized for mathematical precision and project management excellence, he established the company's reputation for timely, budget-conscious delivery of complex construction projects across the Midwest.
JR Portzen
President
President with extensive leadership in commercial construction projects. Oversees strategic operations and client relations, leveraging deep industry knowledge to maintain the company's position as Dubuque's leading union contractor with a focus on quality and innovation.
Jayme Kluesner
Chief Financial Officer
CFO managing financial operations with expertise in construction accounting. Ensures fiscal responsibility and transparent financial reporting, supporting the company's growth while maintaining strict budget controls for client projects.
Adam Portzen
Vice President
Vice President with operational oversight of key construction divisions. Brings technical expertise in project execution and client coordination, maintaining the company's standards for quality control and timely project delivery across commercial and industrial sectors.
Travis Kraus
Plumbing Estimator/Project Manager
Specializes in plumbing project management and cost estimation. Coordinates complex mechanical systems installations, ensuring alignment with project specifications while maintaining budget efficiency and compliance with industry standards for commercial and industrial plumbing systems.
Questions
What types of construction projects does Portzen specialize in?
We focus on commercial and industrial projects including schools, hospitals, water treatment facilities, and infrastructure. Our expertise covers general contracting, concrete, excavating, and flood mitigation.
Do you offer plumbing services beyond standard installations?
Yes, our Dubuque Plumbing & Heating division provides specialized medical gas piping, hydronic heating, and process piping solutions for complex commercial and industrial applications.
What areas do you serve?
We operate throughout Iowa, Southwestern Wisconsin, and the tri-state region, with a strong focus on Dubuque and surrounding communities.
Are you a union-affiliated contractor?
Yes, we're the largest union contractor in Dubuque with established partnerships through the Dubuque Area Labor-Management Council and multiple trade unions.
How do you ensure project quality and safety?
Our certified safety director oversees compliance with OSHA standards, and our union workforce undergoes continuous training to maintain the highest safety and quality benchmarks.
Reviews (1)
Hope Vorbeck
May 02, 2021
Report
Doing construction in a plot across the street from where I live and often park in front of my house. Not an issue. I totally get it. Until I came home from doing some errands and their truck was parked in my driveway in front of my garage so I couldnt pull into my driveway to get in. Seems unprofessional to park in a random persons driveway when youre not performing services for them. Wouldve liked to park in my garage and not down the street.
