Specialty Measuring Archives

Wood Rulers

Steel springs have a precision lock action for extra strength when extended.

About Keson LLC Specialty Measuring Tools

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: Specialty Measuring Product Catalog

Product Category	Sub-Category	Description
Specialty Measuring	Pocket Tape Measures	Keson's compact pocket tape measures are engineered for ultra-portability without sacrificing measurement accuracy, perfect for professionals who need measurement capability in the tightest spaces. These miniature tapes fit easily in shirt pockets, tool pouches, or even wallet compartments, ensuring measurement capability is always at hand. Despite their diminutive size, they feature the same quality construction as larger tapes—positive blade locks, durable housings, and clearly marked graduations. They're particularly favored by electricians, plumbers, and inspectors who need to verify measurements in confined areas like electrical panels, under sinks, or inside equipment enclosures. The compact format also makes them ideal as backup tapes carried in vehicles or toolboxes, providing measurement insurance when primary tools are unavailable.
	Wood Rulers	Keson's wood rulers honor traditional craftsmanship while serving modern measurement needs, manufactured from select hardwoods with precision-printed graduations that won't fade or wear. These classic tools feature brass-tipped ends for durability and hang holes for convenient storage, combining timeless aesthetics with practical functionality. The rigid wood construction provides a stable straightedge for drawing layout lines, while the natural material won't scratch delicate surfaces like metal rulers might. Available in standard 36-inch yardstick format and various metric configurations, these rulers are favorites of educators, architects, graphic designers, and woodworkers who appreciate tools that connect today's work with historical crafting traditions. Each ruler is finished with protective coatings that resist moisture and handling wear, ensuring decades of reliable service.
	Depth Gauges	Keson's depth gauges are specialized measuring instruments designed for accurate depth measurement in applications where standard tapes prove awkward or imprecise. These tools feature sliding scales with locking mechanisms that capture exact depth measurements from holes, trenches, tanks, or any application requiring vertical measurement from an opening. The rigid construction ensures the gauge maintains perpendicular orientation for true depth readings, eliminating the measurement errors that occur when flexible tapes angle or bend. Wide base flanges rest securely on the surface being measured from, providing stable reference points. These gauges are essential tools for plumbers measuring drain depths, concrete contractors checking footing excavations, and manufacturing professionals verifying bore depths. The permanently marked scales resist wear, ensuring measurement accuracy throughout years of professional use.
	Surveyor's Measuring Rope	Keson's surveyor's measuring rope provides rugged distance measurement capability for rough terrain, agricultural applications, and situations where traditional measuring tools are impractical. This heavy-duty braided rope features permanently attached markers at regular intervals, creating a flexible measuring system that conforms to ground contours, wraps around irregular objects, or measures curved paths. The durable synthetic construction resists rot, moisture, and UV degradation while maintaining dimensional stability under tension. Unlike rigid tapes or wheels, measuring rope can be dragged through brush, across uneven ground, or through water without damage. It's the measurement tool of choice for landscape contractors establishing property boundaries, farmers measuring field dimensions, and outdoor recreation professionals laying out courses or events. The rope's flexibility makes it ideal for measuring tasks that would destroy conventional measuring tools.
	Diameter Tape Measures	Keson's diameter tape measures are ingeniously engineered to measure circular object diameters directly, eliminating the mathematical conversion from circumference measurements. These specialized tapes feature dual scales—one side reads circumference while the other automatically displays diameter through π-based graduations. This direct-reading capability prevents calculation errors and saves time when measuring pipes, trees, columns, or any cylindrical object. The flexible steel or fiberglass blades conform perfectly to curved surfaces, while the accurate graduation ensures precision for applications requiring exact diameter measurements. These tapes are indispensable for foresters conducting timber cruising, utility workers sizing conduit, and manufacturing professionals verifying shaft or tube diameters. The ability to read diameter directly from circumference measurement represents the kind of practical innovation that defines Keson's approach to solving real-world measurement challenges.
	Pocket Rods	Keson's pocket rods are compact elevation measuring tools that combine the portability of a pocket tape with the vertical measurement capabilities of a traditional surveying rod. These innovative instruments feature telescoping sections that extend to full surveying rod lengths while collapsing to pocket-sized dimensions for transport. The graduated faces provide clear elevation readings for grade checking, benchmark establishment, and site surveying work. Steel springs provide precision lock action that holds extended sections firmly in place during measurement, preventing the slippage that would compromise elevation accuracy. The compact format makes them ideal for contractors and engineers who need occasional surveying capability without carrying full-size rods. Whether checking building grades, verifying excavation depths, or establishing elevation references, pocket rods deliver professional measurement capability in a format that's always within reach.

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.