Marking Paint

Ultra-Mark® Spray Paint

Formulated to generate superior brilliance for long-range visibility.

About Keson LLC Marking Paint

Keson LLC - About Our Marking Tools

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: Marking Paint Product Catalog

Product Category	Sub-Category	Description
Marking Paint	Paint Applicators	Keson's paint applicator wheels represent innovative multi-functionality, combining accurate distance measurement with simultaneous paint marking capability in a single tool. These specialized measuring wheels feature integrated paint reservoirs and application mechanisms that dispense marking paint as the wheel rolls, allowing users to measure and mark in one continuous operation. This dual functionality dramatically improves efficiency for parking lot striping, athletic field layout, utility locating, and any application requiring both distance measurement and visible marking. The applicators maintain the same 99.7% measurement accuracy as standard Keson measuring wheels while adding paint marking capability that eliminates the need for separate marking operations. Compatible with standard inverted marking paint cans, these wheels allow quick paint cartridge changes when colors need switching or paint runs out. The controlled paint flow system delivers consistent line width and prevents excessive overspray or waste. The rugged construction withstands the dual demands of measurement and marking operations, featuring durable frames and reliable counters. For contractors who need to establish measured layouts with permanent visible marks—parking lot stripers, athletic groundskeepers, and utility locators—paint applicator wheels eliminate redundant operations and slash project time.
	Ultra-Mark Spray Paint	Keson's Ultra-Mark inverted spray paint is specially formulated for professional marking applications requiring superior brilliance, long-range visibility, and weather-resistant permanence. This advanced aerosol marking system delivers intensely pigmented lines in fluorescent and standard colors that remain visible across long distances and challenging conditions. The inverted spray technology allows marking in any orientation—upside down, sideways, or at awkward angles—without spray interruption or sputtering, critical for efficient marking operations. Ultra-Mark paint bonds tenaciously to concrete, asphalt, grass, gravel, and dirt surfaces while resisting fading from UV exposure, washing from rain, or wearing from traffic. The fast-dry formula minimizes smudging and tracking, allowing marked areas to be safely accessed quickly after application. The comfortable grip and precision valve provide controlled paint application that conserves material while creating crisp, professional-looking marks. Available in APWA (American Public Works Association) utility color codes plus additional high-visibility shades, Ultra-Mark serves utility locators, survey crews, parking lot contractors, and grounds maintenance professionals. The paint's exceptional visibility and permanence make it essential for critical infrastructure marking where safety and clarity cannot be compromised.
	Chalk Line Saver	Keson's Chalk Line Saver is an innovative clear spray coating that transforms temporary chalk lines into weather-resistant, traffic-proof marks that endure throughout project timelines. This protective spray forms a transparent barrier over chalk lines without obscuring their visibility, locking pigment to surfaces against wind, rain, foot traffic, and general job site activity that would normally obliterate unprotected chalk marks. The application is simple—snap chalk lines as normal, then overspray with Chalk Line Saver to seal them permanently. This solution addresses the perennial contractor frustration of disappeared layout lines, eliminating the need to re-snap marks repeatedly throughout projects. The clear formula works with any chalk color and doesn't alter line appearance or visibility. It's particularly valuable for exterior projects where weather threatens layout integrity, multi-day jobs where lines must survive between work phases, or high-traffic areas where layout marks must endure constant foot movement. The spray dries quickly to a durable finish that resists weathering far better than chalk alone while eventually allowing cleanup when marks are no longer needed. Chalk Line Saver represents Keson's problem-solving philosophy—identifying real contractor challenges and engineering elegant solutions that improve productivity and accuracy.

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
LinkedIn	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.