Case Study: RISE Rock Valley, Iowa

Built for Resiliency.
Built for Rock Valley.
Built for Generations.

A city stunned by extreme weather. A community working together to move forward. CertainTeed® products are built for this.

RISE®: Up to the Challenge

When a flood strikes, more than homes can be lost: memories, stability, and a sense of safety can also be lost in the deluge. But in Rock Valley, Iowa, a flood in the spring of 2024 didn’t just wash away buildings—it sparked a bold undertaking: rebuild stronger, smarter, and more resilient. At the center of this effort is a 21-home community built with purpose, pride, and products designed to withstand the worst.

A Builder’s Vision

Zach Van Ginkel, owner of BG Construction and Stone, had already begun conceptualizing a new housing development when the flood hit. With over a decade of experience in residential construction, Zach’s company was known for being a one-stop shop—from custom homes to masonry and siding. After the flood damaged over 500 homes, the city reached out to Zach with a simple question: can we fast-track this project to help our community?

The answer was a resounding yes.

A Community Reborn

Rock Valley isn’t new to flooding. But the 2024 event was unprecedented. Streets turned into rivers. Homes were gutted. Businesses, including Farmers Lumber, were submerged. Yet, the community rallied. Volunteers lined the streets, helping neighbors clean out debris, restore belongings—even wedding dresses.

Melissa Mina, a middle school teacher and flood survivor, shared her journey from displacement to homeownership in the new development. “We’ve built new relationships because of the flood. We’ve built a new home. And we get this new beginning.”

Her story is one of many. Each home in the development represents not just shelter, but hope.

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The Power of Partnership

Todd Kaplan of Springer Midwest emphasized the importance of product performance in extreme conditions. “RISE siding sat in the floodwater for a day or two and had no catastrophic failure. Rise came through just extraordinarily.”

Jason Farris, Director of Business Development for CertainTeed Siding, echoed that sentiment. “What we're showcasing today is going to have a ripple effect across this diverse community."

Looking Ahead

The RISE development is more than a response to a crisis. It’s a blueprint for future communities. Built on higher ground, with materials designed for longevity and resilience, it’s a testament to what’s possible when manufacturers, builders, and communities come together.

“It's going to be good for their next generation, because the kids raised in this house will likely buy this house from their parents and then raise their children,” adds Jason. “We’re not making an impact on a single family. We’re making a generational impact on the community.”

CertainTeed products are built precisely for this: situations that require innovation and resilience, not just for today or tomorrow—but for generations to come.

Explore RISE® by CertainTeed siding and LandMark shingles options.