Our Story
A Family business Built on Integrity
Black River Builders began with a hammer, a good name, and a man trying to support his growing family. Founder John Martin started the company after years of hands-on carpentry experience—first under his father’s general contracting business in Pennsylvania, and later on his own in Southwest Washington.
The name comes from the Black River that once ran past John’s home in Gate, WA—a reminder of his deep connection to water and the land, shaped by childhood years on the banks of the Conestoga River. That same grounded, quiet strength shows up in the way we build.
For years, John was a one-man crew, taking on whatever jobs people needed. Today, Black River Builders is a small, family-run operation with John and his two sons—Bradley and Winfred—serving homeowners across Rochester, Olympia, Chehalis, Grand Mound, and surrounding towns.
Our reputation is built on Christian values, perfectionist craftsmanship, and the kind of honesty you don’t need to second-guess. We’re especially proud of the work we do fixing poorly installed siding in local developments, where we often go beyond industry standards: adding a ventilating air gap, flashing behind joints, and z-metals above windows for long-term durability. It’s not the quick way—but it’s the right way.
Every job is a reflection of who we are. We don’t just build structures—we leave a piece of ourselves in every project.
What Sets Us Apart
True Craftsmanship
We treat every build like it’s going on our own home. Our crew brings decades of hands-on experience and an eye for the small details—whether it’s perfectly aligned siding, a rock-solid deck frame, or tight flashing on every window. We don’t just aim to pass inspection—we aim for perfection. If something’s worth doing, it’s worth doing right.
Honesty First
We’re builders, not salesmen. You’ll get straight answers, clear expectations, and fair pricing from the start—no pressure, no hidden fees. We walk customers through the process step by step, and we’re always happy to explain our methods or recommendations. Our goal is to earn your trust before we earn your business.
Family-Owned and Local
We’re a small, family-run company based right here in Rochester. Founder John Martin works alongside his two sons on nearly every job, bringing old-fashioned work ethic and real accountability to every project. When you hire us, you’re hiring real people who live and work in your community—not a franchise or a faceless crew.
Built for the Pacific Northwest
The PNW climate is tough on buildings—constant rain, moisture intrusion, and expansion cycles that wear down cheap construction. We build for longevity, using moisture-smart techniques like ventilated siding installs, metal flashings, and high-performance caulks. It’s not the quick or easy way—but it’s the right way for our climate.
