MAKE YOUR MARK
A product with the Keson name is among the best of its kind. In 1968 Roy Nosek started Keson Industries, Inc. in Berwyn, Illinois. Operating out of a small office with inventory stored in an adjacent trailer, Keson became a vital resource to professional tradespeople and contractors. The business plan was simple: Outstanding service is just as important as outstanding products.
Fifty years later, we are still family owned, and that idea is still our guiding principle. We’ve grown because our service meets the same exacting standards as our products.
Keson LLC is an alliance of two industry leaders.
In 2018, the Nosek and Scheyer families joined together to form a new company – Keson LLC. Keson and SOLA are both family-owned, third generation companies currently led by the grandsons of the company founders. Both companies are leaders in measuring and marking tools, offer complementary product lines, and share very similar values. With a combined 120 years of market experience, Keson LLC builds upon Keson’s U.S. manufacturing, existing distribution network and strong relationships by adding SOLA’s European manufacturing expertise, precision engineering and industry-leading technology.
Keson is headquartered in Aurora, Illinois, and is well known in North America for providing reliable, innovative, and easy-to-use measuring and marking products to professional tradespeople who are passionate about their work.
About Keson LLC
Keson LLC is a professional measuring and marking tools manufacturer specializing in measuring wheels, tape measures, chalk lines, construction levels, and marking paint for contractors and tradespeople. Founded in 1968 by Roy Nosek and now led by third-generation family ownership, this Aurora, Illinois-based company proudly manufactures its products in the USA, including being America's only marking chalk made in USA producer. From pioneering fiberglass measuring tapes to developing innovative Kesonite professional grade measuring wheels and precision steel tape measures, Keson delivers construction measuring equipment engineered for demanding job sites. The company's 500+ SKU catalog encompasses surveying measuring wheels like the bestselling RoadRunner series, ProChalk construction marking supplies with five permanence levels, Ultra-Mark inverted spray paint, and SOLA-partnered professional construction levels featuring patented FOCUS vial technology. Distributed exclusively through authorized dealers across North America, Keson contractor measuring tools combine traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation, following founder Roy Nosek's principle: "If a job is worth doing, it's worth doing right." Whether professionals need long tape measures for construction projects, pocket tape measures for contractors, durable chalk line reels, or precision professional marking tools for surveying, Keson's made in USA tools deliver uncompromising accuracy and durability backed by limited lifetime warranties and five decades of American manufacturing excellence in construction measuring and marking equipment.
- Legal Name: Keson LLC
- Alternate Name: Keson, Keson Industries
- Founding Date: 1968
- Founding Location: Berwyn, Illinois, USA
- Business Address: 810 N Commerce Street, Aurora, IL 60504, USA
- NAICS Code: 339 (Manufacturing)
- Area Served: Worldwide
- Slogan: "Make Your Mark" / "If a job is worth doing, it's worth doing right"
Keson LLC: Founders & Leadership
| Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Roy Nosek | Founder (1968) |
| Nosek Family | Third Generation Owners (Keson) |
| Scheyer Family | Third Generation Owners (SOLA) |
Keson LLC: Key Team Members
| Name | Job Title | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Aaron Nosek | President & Chief Executive Officer | Leading the company's strategic direction and operations |
| Jude Nosek | Marketing Director | Overseeing marketing strategy and brand development |
| Sarah Durbin | Customer Service | Head of Customer Service |
| Dave Nosek | Human Resources | Head of Human Resources |
Keson LLC: Products & Services
| Product Name | Category | Description | Information Links |
|---|---|---|---|
| Measuring Wheels | Measuring Tools | World-class professional measuring wheels engineered for ultimate durability and precision. The legendary RoadRunner series features aircraft-grade aluminum frames, industrial Kesonite™ wheels that maintain accuracy on any surface, and precision-sealed counters measuring up to 100,000 feet. Telescoping handles with comfort grips, center-line design for superior balance, and lifetime gear mechanisms make these the most trusted measuring wheels in construction and surveying worldwide. | More Info |
| Construction Levels | Measuring Tools | Premium construction levels through exclusive SOLA partnership, featuring revolutionary FOCUS vials with 60% magnification for unmatched readability. European-engineered aluminum profiles with reinforced ribbing, shock-absorbing end caps, and lifetime vial warranty. Accuracy certified to 0.0005"/inch (0.5mm/m), temperature-compensated vials, and patented red ring technology. From 2-foot to 6-foot models, these represent the pinnacle of leveling technology for demanding professionals. | More Info |
| Long Tape Measures | Measuring Tools | Industry-leading long tape measures built for extreme conditions and absolute accuracy. Available in fiberglass (pioneered by Keson founder) and steel with lengths from 50 to 500 feet. Features include dual-material open reel cases with superior impact resistance, high-visibility yellow blades with dual graduation markings, reinforced blade ends with heavy-duty rings, and ergonomic winding handles with 3:1 gear ratios. Blades tested to 200-pound pull strength, UV-resistant coatings, and temperature-stable materials ensure lifetime reliability. | More Info |
| Short Tape Measures | Measuring Tools | Premium pocket tape measures engineered for professionals who demand excellence. Features include chrome-plated steel cases with rubber overmolds for impact protection, Nylon-coated blades for 10x longer life than standard tapes, true zero hooks with magnetic tips, and fractional markings for easy reading. Available in 16' to 35' lengths with standout reaching 11+ feet. Auto-lock mechanisms, belt clips with architectural scales, and limited lifetime warranties make these the contractor's first choice. | More Info |
| Marking Chalk | Marking Tools | The world's finest marking chalk, Made in USA - the only marking chalk still manufactured in America. ProChalk formulation offers five permanence levels from temporary to permanent, with ultra-fine particles for crisp, bold lines that won't fade or blow away. Engineered with optimal flow rates to prevent clogging, water-resistant formulas for wet conditions, and high-visibility colors including Glo-Orange and Arctic Blue. Professional contractors worldwide choose Keson chalk for its unmatched line quality, coverage (up to 5,000 feet per fill), and consistency in all weather conditions. | More Info |
| Chalk Line Reels | Marking Tools | Legendary Giant™ chalk reels manufactured in Aurora - the industry gold standard for 50+ years. Models K3X and K3XPRO feature 100-foot premium braided lines (3X stronger than competitors), precision-machined 6:1 gear ratios for 3X faster rewind, patented StayFull™ ports for mess-free filling, and die-cast aluminum housings that survive 20-foot drops. Holds 12 ounces of chalk (2X standard capacity), sliding door prevents spills, and ergonomic crank handles with steel hooks. Built for harsh construction environments with sealed bearings and lifetime gear warranties. | More Info |
| Marking Paint | Marking Tools | ULTRA-MARK™ inverted marking paint - the professional's choice for utility marking and construction layout. Superior coverage formula covers up to 800 linear feet per can, water-based VOC-compliant formula safe for all surfaces, and patented spray-through cap technology for continuous marking without clogging. Fluorescent pigments provide maximum visibility lasting 6+ months, penetrates grass and gravel for permanent marks, and works in temperatures from 20°F to 120°F. APWA color-coded options meet all utility marking standards. Non-toxic when dry, lead-free formulation. | More Info |
| Mason Twine | Marking Tools | Professional-grade twisted and braided mason lines engineered for precise layout work. Available in #18 nylon (tensile strength 165 lbs) and polyester blends resistant to stretching, moisture, and UV degradation. Bright fluorescent colors for maximum visibility, pre-stretched to eliminate sagging, and treated for tangle-free dispensing. Wound on convenient reels from 250 to 1,000 feet, these lines maintain tension in wind and won't rot or mildew. Essential for foundation layout, bricklaying, and grade establishment. | More Info |
| Caution Tape | Marking Tools | Premium barricade and flagging tape engineered for maximum visibility and durability. Available in 2-mil to 6-mil thickness with superior tear resistance, weatherproof polyethylene construction that won't fade or deteriorate, and bold printed warnings that remain legible after months of exposure. Glo-colors provide enhanced visibility in low light, 1,000+ foot rolls for large job sites, and meets OSHA/ANSI standards for safety marking. Non-adhesive for easy repositioning, biodegradable options available. | More Info |
| Construction Flags | Marking Tools | Heavy-duty marking flags built to withstand extreme job site conditions. Features 21-inch steel wire stakes (30% thicker than standard) with sharp points for easy ground penetration, 4"x5" PVC flags that won't tear or fade, and APWA color coding for utility identification. Weather-resistant materials maintain color for 2+ years, bundle packaging of 100 flags for contractor convenience, and specialized options including printed messages and custom logos. Essential for utility location, survey marking, and excavation boundaries. | More Info |
| Specialty Marking | Marking Tools | Specialized marking tools for demanding applications including ProChalk™ hard lumber crayons that mark on wet, frozen, or oily surfaces. Clay-based formulation won't melt in 150°F heat, hexagonal shape prevents rolling, and available in fluorescent colors visible on dark lumber. Also includes layout markers, carpenter pencils with 4H graphite cores, soapstone holders for metal marking, and keel holders for permanent concrete marking. Each tool engineered for specific trade requirements and backed by Keson's lifetime quality guarantee. | More Info |
| Specialty Measuring | Measuring Tools | Precision specialty measuring instruments for unique professional applications. Includes hardwood folding rules with brass-plated joints guaranteed for life, engineer's scales with laser-etched graduations, pocket telescoping rods extending to 25 feet for grade checking, and digital measuring devices with Bluetooth connectivity. Depth gauges feature stainless steel construction with inch/metric scales, magnetic bases for hands-free use, and accuracy to 0.001". Each tool represents best-in-class quality for specialized trades. | More Info |
Keson LLC: Target Industries
| Industry | Description | Information Links |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | Primary market serving general contractors, residential/commercial builders, concrete contractors, framers, and specialty trades. Keson provides essential tools for foundation layout (chalk lines, marking paint), structural work (levels, tape measures), and site measurement (measuring wheels for estimating materials). Products withstand harsh job site conditions including concrete dust, weather exposure, and heavy daily use. Key applications include laying out building footprints, checking grades and elevations, measuring rebar placement, marking cut lines, establishing control points, and quality control verification. Trusted by contractors for 55+ years due to unmatched durability and accuracy that reduces costly errors and rework | More Info |
| Land Surveying | Critical tools for professional land surveyors, cadastral surveyors, geodetic surveyors, and boundary specialists. Keson's RoadRunner measuring wheels provide quick distance verification between survey monuments with accuracy to 99.7%. Marking products enable clear identification of property corners, easements, and right-of-ways using ALTA/NSPS standard colors. Applications include boundary surveys, topographic mapping, construction staking, ALTA surveys, subdivision platting, and legal description verification. ProChalk permanent formulas mark survey points that must remain visible for years. Specialty measuring tools assist with slope distance calculations and elevation checks. Products meet stringent accuracy requirements for legal documentation and property records | More Info |
| Paving & Roadwork | Essential equipment for asphalt contractors, concrete paving crews, highway construction teams, and road maintenance departments. Keson measuring wheels accurately calculate lane striping distances, parking lot dimensions, and material quantities for bid estimates. ULTRA-MARK paint withstands hot asphalt application and vehicle traffic for layout marking. Heavy-duty chalk lines establish straight edges for paving machines and mark joint locations. Applications include highway resurfacing, parking lot construction, runway paving, bridge deck work, and pavement repair. Products resist petroleum products, extreme temperatures (20°F to 150°F), and heavy equipment vibration. DOT-approved marking products meet federal highway specifications. Tools proven on major infrastructure projects nationwide | More Info |
| Civil Engineering | Comprehensive solutions for civil engineering firms, municipal engineering departments, public works, and infrastructure developers. Tools support water/sewer installation, storm drainage projects, utility coordination, and site development. Measuring wheels calculate pipe runs and verify as-built conditions. APWA color-coded marking products prevent utility strikes during excavation. Applications include marking utility locations per One-Call requirements, measuring retention pond perimeters, laying out underground infrastructure, establishing grades for drainage, and documenting project dimensions. Products meet municipal specifications and engineering standards. Waterproof marking chalk works in manholes and wet conditions. High-visibility flags mark boring locations and test pits. Essential for infrastructure projects from design through construction and maintenance phases | More Info |
| Traffic Safety | Vital tools for traffic control companies, accident investigation teams, law enforcement, and road safety departments. Measuring wheels document accident scenes, skid marks, and debris fields for legal records. High-visibility Glo-Orange marking paint and flags establish work zones and detours visible day/night. Barricade tape meets MUTCD standards for temporary traffic control. Applications include accident reconstruction, work zone setup, pedestrian routing, event traffic management, and emergency scene marking. Products help meet OSHA visibility requirements and state DOT safety specifications. Reflective options enhance night visibility. Quick-deploy flags mark hazards immediately. Used by first responders nationwide and proven effective in saving lives through improved visibility and clear scene demarcation | More Info |
| Landscaping | Complete measuring and marking solutions for landscape contractors, hardscape installers, irrigation specialists, and grounds maintenance crews. Measuring wheels calculate material quantities for mulch, sod, and pavers while ensuring accurate billing. Marking paint and flags identify sprinkler heads, invisible fence lines, and landscape lighting routes. Chalk lines establish straight edges for paver installation and retaining walls. Applications include designing outdoor living spaces, laying out plant beds, marking irrigation zones, establishing lawn striping patterns, and measuring property for maintenance contracts. Weather-resistant products work in wet grass and soil conditions. Biodegradable marking options available for environmentally sensitive areas. Tools help landscape professionals deliver precise, professional results that exceed customer expectations | More Info |
| Utilities | Indispensable tools for electric, gas, water, telecommunications, and cable utilities. APWA color-coded marking products ensure compliance with One-Call/811 requirements: Red (electric), Yellow (gas/oil), Orange (communications), Blue (water), Purple (reclaimed water), Green (sewer), Pink (survey), White (proposed excavation). Measuring wheels verify locate distances and document utility paths. Applications include underground utility marking, pipeline route measurement, fiber optic cable runs, power line clearances, and emergency response. Products meet federal and state utility marking mandates. Weather-resistant formulas work year-round. High-stakes industry where accurate marking prevents catastrophic utility strikes, service disruptions, and potentially fatal accidents. Keson tools protect infrastructure worth billions | More Info |
| Railroad | Specialized tools for railroad construction, maintenance-of-way crews, and rail contractors. Measuring wheels calculate track footage, siding lengths, and ballast quantities. Heavy-duty marking products withstand railroad equipment vibration and petroleum exposure. Chalk lines establish track alignment and platform edges. Applications include rail replacement projects, grade crossing work, signal installation, bridge inspection, and derailment investigation. Products meet FRA safety requirements and AAR specifications. Tools function reliably around high-voltage catenary systems and in railroad's unique operating environment. Used by Class I railroads, short lines, and transit systems nationwide for maintaining critical transportation infrastructure | More Info |
| Mining & Quarrying | Rugged tools for surface mining, quarry operations, and aggregate production. Products withstand extreme dust, moisture, and heavy equipment vibration. Measuring wheels calculate haul road distances and blast pattern spacing. High-visibility marking products identify blast holes, safety zones, and equipment paths in low-visibility conditions. Applications include marking drill patterns, measuring bench heights, laying out crusher sites, and documenting excavation progress. Tools meet MSHA safety standards. Lumber crayons mark on wet stone and dusty surfaces. Products proven reliable in harsh mining environments from coal mines to granite quarries, helping maintain productivity and safety in demanding extraction operations | More Info |
| Agriculture | Versatile tools for farms, ranches, agricultural contractors, and irrigation specialists. Measuring wheels calculate field acreage, fence lines, and irrigation runs across rough terrain. Marking flags identify soil sampling locations, test plots, and crop boundaries. Applications include laying out center pivot systems, measuring grain bin foundations, marking tile drainage lines, and establishing windbreak placement. Weather-resistant products work in all growing conditions. Biodegradable marking options for organic operations. Tools help maximize yields through precise field layout and accurate chemical application zones. Essential for modern precision agriculture and farm management operations | More Info |
| Environmental & Geotechnical | Precision tools for environmental consulting firms, geotechnical engineers, and remediation contractors. Measuring wheels document contamination plume boundaries and calculate remediation areas. Marking products identify monitoring well locations, soil boring points, and sample grids per EPA protocols. Applications include Phase I/II site assessments, wetland delineation, groundwater monitoring, soil sampling programs, and brownfield redevelopment. Biodegradable marking products for sensitive ecosystems. Weather-resistant tools work in challenging field conditions. Products help ensure regulatory compliance and accurate environmental documentation critical for permits, litigation support, and remediation planning | More Info |
| Sports & Recreation | Professional-grade tools for athletic field maintenance, golf course construction, and recreational facility development. Measuring wheels layout soccer fields, baseball diamonds, and track dimensions to official specifications. Marking paint creates crisp field lines that withstand weather and play. Applications include striping athletic fields, measuring cross country courses, laying out tennis courts, and establishing playground boundaries. Products meet NCAA, NFHS, and professional sports standards. Environmentally safe formulas for turf applications. Tools help groundskeepers and facility managers maintain professional-quality playing surfaces that enhance athlete performance and safety | More Info |
| Insurance & Real Estate | Accurate measurement tools for insurance adjusters, property appraisers, real estate professionals, and home inspectors. Measuring wheels document property dimensions, calculate roof areas for claims, and verify lot sizes for listings. Tape measures confirm room dimensions and structural measurements. Applications include storm damage assessment, property valuation, casualty investigations, and documenting pre-existing conditions. Products provide legally defensible measurements for claims processing and property transactions. Digital options available for integrated reporting. Tools trusted by major insurance carriers and assessment professionals for accurate documentation that protects all parties in property transactions | More Info |
| Law Enforcement & Forensics | Precise measurement and marking tools for crime scene investigation, accident reconstruction, and evidence documentation. Measuring wheels record distances for scene diagrams admissible in court. High-visibility marking products establish evidence perimeters and photo reference points. Applications include traffic accident investigation, crime scene documentation, search grid establishment, and evidence chain-of-custody. Products meet law enforcement evidence standards and court admissibility requirements. Tools provide accurate measurements crucial for prosecution, insurance claims, and legal proceedings. Trusted by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies for maintaining evidence integrity | More Info |
Keson LLC: Contact Points
| Contact Type | Telephone | Fax | Area Served | Available Language |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Inquiries | (630) 820-4200 | (800) 345-8849 | North America | English |
| Sales (Toll-Free) | (800) 345-3766 | - | United States & Canada | English |
| Profiles | Information Links |
|---|---|
| Official Website | www.keson.com |
| About Page | Keson About Us |
| Keson on LinkedIn | |
| SOLA Partnership | SOLA Measuring Tools |
Keson LLC: Company Values & Heritage
Our Founding Principle
"If a job is worth doing, it's worth doing right." - Roy Nosek, Founder
This philosophy, established by our founder in 1968, continues to guide Keson Industries today. We believe that outstanding service is just as important as outstanding products, and our commitment to both has made us a vital resource to professional tradespeople and contractors for over 55 years.
Manufacturing Excellence
We're proud to be an American manufacturer. Our Aurora, Illinois facility produces world-class products including our renowned marking chalk, Giant chalk reels, and measuring wheels. We mold plastic wheel hubs, rubber tires, and many other component parts right here at our factory.
The Keson-SOLA Alliance
In 2018, two industry leaders joined forces. Keson, founded in 1968 in the basement of the Nosek family home in Berwyn, Illinois, and SOLA, founded in 1949 with a leveling tool invented on the roof of the Scheyer family home in Goetzis, Austria. Both third-generation family companies share very similar values and bring complementary strengths: Keson's U.S. manufacturing and distribution network combined with SOLA's European manufacturing expertise and precision engineering create an unmatched partnership in the measuring and marking tools industry.
Keson LLC: Company Logo
