Who We Are

Our History

Our company bears the name of its founder, Raymond E. Kelley, who began as a waterproofing contractor in 1934. Within a few years, Kelley added masonry restoration and caulking to his growing list of services. Since the firm had quickly become an expert in its field, manufacturers were eager to work closely with R.E. Kelley, Inc. in developing new products and methods of application. R.E. Kelley, Inc. also became increasingly involved as a consultant to architectural and engineering firms.

Diversification continued as the company adapted its proven techniques for use on commercial and industrial floors, parking ramps and bridge decks. While assessing building problems, the experts at R.E. Kelley, Inc. often encountered deteriorated window sashes that had resulted from deteriorating masonry and age. The next logical expansion step for R.E. Kelley, Inc. was in the window replacement field.

In 1976, R.E. Kelley, Inc. jointly founded the Sealant, Waterproofing and Restoration Institute (SWRI). The SWRI is widely recognized throughout the industry for its standards of excellence and reliable endorsement of high-quality products and innovative processes. Over the years, R.E. Kelley, Inc. has diversified to include all aspects of exterior façade maintenance. The leadership team of Ronald C. Schlegel, President and Steven Sandroni, Vice President, expects the building restoration and maintenance business to expand, as more and more commercial buildings require the rehabilitation services that R.E. Kelley, Inc. can provide.

Our Mission

Quality Workmanship

R.E. Kelley, Inc. provides the highest standards of quality workmanship by employing skilled union craftsmen. All our field employees have studied under a qualified four-year apprentice program, received extensive in-house training and have many years of experience.

Effective and Efficient Operations

We are focused on providing our customers with quality construction that is competitive, timely and within budget. R.E. Kelley, Inc. will meet our clients’ needs through reliability, cooperation, flexibility and knowledge.

Use of Proven Materials

Quality is never sacrificed for cost savings. R.E. Kelley, Inc. compiles and analyzes manufacturers’ technical data to determine which products are best for the project. All products have been rigorously tested and were found to be superior in field use.

A Safety-First Attitude

We are committed to providing a safe work environment through the education of all our employees. Safety meetings are conducted weekly at each job site. All field employees have completed the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Safety and Fall Protection Course.

Outstanding Customer Service

Our goal is to exceed customer expectations. We provide our clients with quality workmanship that not only secures the integrity of the building but also enhances it aesthetically. An R.E. Kelley, Inc. project is complete only when our customer is satisfied.

R.E. Kelley Recognized as 2025
Business Ethics Award Honoree

In 2025, R.E. Kelley was recognized in the Mid-Size Business category as an award honoree for the 2025 Business Ethics Awards, earned through consistent ethical conduct.

Since 2007, the Business Ethics Association has proudly brought business ethics to the forefront and attention of the  Buffalo Niagara community by presenting events, information, and awards to companies consistently demonstrating ethical conduct, and shining a spotlight on companies that demonstrate integrity in everything they do, including this lifetime achievement award.

Our Team

R.E. Kelley, Inc. is directed by a “hands-on” executive team that strives for excellence. Customer service is the cornerstone of our business and to ensure that our reputation as a dependable, trustworthy contractor is maintained, an officer is involved in every project throughout its progression. Each principle is accessible to customers, inside staff and field employees, establishing open communication and providing leadership direction at every level of the company.

Ron Schlegel

President

Ron Schlegel

President

Ron Schlegel began his career with R.E. Kelley, Inc. over 40 years ago and has led the company as President since 1994. With academic backgrounds in Business Management and Construction Technology, Ron guides the overall strategy and long-term growth of the firm. He plays a key role in exploring new products and technologies that enhance the company’s specialized construction services.

Known for his hands-on leadership, Ron spends significant time in the field, closely monitoring project progress and maintaining high standards of quality. His commitment to customer satisfaction has fostered enduring relationships with clients such as Canisius College, M&T Bank, Kaleida Health, Community Bank, and Niagara University.

“We approach each project with a focus on flexibility, ensuring that the method, materials, and implementation meet the project’s specific needs.”

Connect with Ron on LinkedIn
Steve Sandroni

Vice President

Steve Sandroni

Vice President

Steve Sandroni is a key leader at Raymond E. Kelley, Inc., driving the company’s presence across Central New York since 1994. Based in the Waterloo office, Steve oversees regional operations and provides expert consultation to building owners and property managers throughout Rochester, Syracuse, Watertown, and Albany. With over 30 years of experience in the construction industry and a degree in Construction Technology, he brings both technical knowledge and practical insight to every project.

His portfolio includes work for prominent clients such as Syracuse University, Time-Warner, Keuka College, and Bassett Healthcare. Steve is known for his responsive service and commitment to the core values that define every Kelley project: conscientious management, high-quality materials, and skilled craftsmanship.

“Although each Kelley project is unique, we provide the three basic factors that guarantee success on every project – conscientious project management, quality products, and highly skilled field workers.”

Don Warda
Donald J. Warda

Vice President Emeritus

Don Warda
Donald Warda

Vice President Emeritus

In his role as Sales and Estimating Team Leader, Don personally oversees all project proposals. His strong analytical skills and attention to detail ensure that each project is matched with the most appropriate and effective construction solution available. Don has demonstrated his broad scope of expertise by successfully and economically completing projects at Colgate University, HSBC Bank, New York State Power Authority, City of Buffalo Schools and the Blue Cross HealthNow headquarters, a L.E.E.D. (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) building, just to name a few. With a degree in Construction Technology and over 25 years of construction experience, Don’s commitment to quality assurance supports the high standards of R. E. Kelley, Inc.

“The best customer experience is the one that exceeds everyone’s expectations – on time and within budget.”

Connect with Donald on LinkedIn
Penny Chick

Project Manager/Estimator

Tom Boise

Project Manager/Estimator

Eric Schlegel

Project Manager/Estimator

Eric Schlegel

Project Manager/Estimator

Eric Schlegel is an Estimator and Project Manager at Raymond E. Kelley, bringing nearly a decade of experience in construction estimating, project coordination, and client engagement.

He specializes in acquiring new work through detailed field surveying and measuring, turning site data into comprehensive construction budgets and actionable reports. He works closely with clients to identify efficient solutions that support long-term building stability. Among his standout projects is the restoration of a historically significant gargoyle at 800 W. Ferry in Buffalo.

The original, donated by renowned architect Darwin Martin, was carefully replicated using a lightweight concrete mold, preserving its legacy within the city’s architectural heritage. He earned a Bachelor of Science from Medaille College, which is located in the City of Buffalo.

While working in the industry, he later completed coursework through Erie Community College’s Construction Management Program. Most recently, he completed the Core Program at the University at Buffalo’s Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership, designed for emerging professionals seeking to grow as business leaders.

Connect with Eric on LinkedIn
Charlie Rewers

Project Manager/Estimator

Justus Hoffman

Project Manager/Estimator

Justus Hoffman

Project Manager/Estimator

Justus Hoffmann is a Project Manager at Raymond E. Kelley, overseeing estimating and project management responsibilities. Joining the company in 2019 with a degree in Construction Management Engineering Technology, Justus brings a strong technical foundation and a deep understanding of the industry.

Coming from a family of construction and engineering professionals, Justus developed a passion for the field from an early age. This lifelong connection to the industry drives a commitment to delivering high-quality projects with precision and efficiency.

Justus’s portfolio encompasses successful projects completed for esteemed clients such as M&T Bank, Canisius College, YMCA, and Richardson Olmstead Complex.

Brad Sandroni

Project Manager/Estimator

Brad Sandroni

Project Manager/Estimator

Brad Sandroni is a Project Manager and Estimator at Raymond E. Kelley, where he oversees project planning, cost estimating, and coordination from preconstruction through closeout. Brad first joined the company part-time in 2015 before transitioning to a full-time role in 2021, bringing with him a strong foundation in construction and industrial technology.

His portfolio includes key projects such as Hamilton College Root Hall, Keeler Park Apartments, Roswell Parking Garage, and Park Plaza Apartments. Known for his precision in preparing shop drawings and technical documentation, Brad plays a critical role in ensuring project accuracy and efficiency.

He holds an Associate’s degree in Construction Technology Management and a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Technology Management, both from SUNY Canton.

Kyle Drake

Project Manager/Estimator

Sean Keenan

Assistant Project Manager

Sean Keenan

Assistant Project Manager

Sean Keenan is an Assistant Project Manager at Raymond E. Kelley, supporting project management operations through takeoffs, estimates, proposals, and various administrative tasks. In this role, he is gaining hands-on experience in project coordination, positioning himself as a future Project Manager.

Sean joined Raymond E. Kelley one year ago and brings a strong foundation in communication and organizational skills. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Communication from SUNY Geneseo, which enhances his ability to collaborate effectively with teams and clients.

Connect with Sean on LinkedIn
Holly Flanagan

Controller

Sandy Bavaro

Adminstrative Assistant

Sandy Bavaro

Adminstrative Assistant

Sandy Bavaro is an Administrative Assistant at Raymond E. Kelley, supporting the Project Management team with job setups, billing coordination, and insurance documentation.

With over 30 years at the company, Sandy brings a wealth of knowledge and reliability to the administrative side of operations. She holds an Associate’s degree and plays a key role in ensuring that project logistics and paperwork run smoothly behind the scenes.

Julie Maggiore

AP / Payroll Specialist

Julie Maggiore

AP / Payroll Specialist

Julie Maggiore serves as the AP/Payroll Specialist at Raymond E. Kelley, where she is responsible for managing accounts payable and processing payroll. She also has a role in supporting the company’s safety efforts as a Safety Coordinator Assistant.

With nearly a decade of experience at Raymond E. Kelley, she plays a key role in maintaining accurate financial operations and promoting workplace safety. Her attention to detail, reliability, and commitment to excellence help ensure the smooth day-to-day functioning of the company’s business operations.

 

Jim Bryant

Warehouse and Purchasing Manager

Nathan Bryant

Warehouse and Purchasing Assistant Manager

Nathan Bryant

Warehouse and Purchasing Assistant Manager

Nathan Bryant is a Warehouse and Purchasing Agent at Raymond E. Kelley, where he plays a key role in job preparation and equipment readiness. With eight years at the company, he is responsible for gathering job materials, managing inventory, and ensuring trailers and equipment receive routine maintenance.

He also keeps the warehouse clean, organized, and running efficiently. Coming from a long line of Raymond E. Kelley employees—both his father and grandfather dedicated their careers here—he takes pride in continuing the family legacy.

One of his proudest contributions is consistently ensuring that job materials are prepared and ready to go on time.

Bill Rapp

Warehouse Foreman

Partnerships & Affiliations

AIA
Buffalo Niagara Partnership
BOMA
CSI
SWR
Community WNY

More About Us

Green Strategy Safety Corporate Citizenship Awards

Green Strategy

R.E. Kelley, Inc. uses “green” techniques whenever possible on all of its job sites. “Green” construction techniques save the customer money, and protect the environment. R.E. Kelley, Inc. is committed to preserving resources through the following objectives:

When involved in the design phase, the experts at R.E. Kelley, Inc. use the opportunity to prevent waste. This prevents overspending on materials and waste removal costs. We estimate when and where waste is generated, and we efficiently schedule its removal.

Construction sites can generate large amounts of waste even after the demolition phase has been completed. To reduce waste, R.E. Kelley, Inc. will ask suppliers to:

  • Buy back unused items.
  • Replace all damaged goods.
  • Deliver materials in returnable pallets or containers.

Our purchasing policies also prevent waste on the job site. Whenever possible, we avoid material brands with excessive packaging, purchase recycled and renewable materials, and are constantly reviewing our estimating process. Our estimating experts accurately determine the correct amount of materials needed, thus eliminating waste.

As high-quality, “green” materials become available for the masonry industry, R.E. Kelley, Inc. will use them whenever possible to minimize environmental impact.

Safety

Our greatest responsibility as a corporation is to ensure the safety of our employees, our clients and the entire construction team. Safety is promoted, mandated, monitored and recognized on every R.E. Kelley, Inc. project.

All field employees have completed the OSHA Safety and Fall Protection Course. Additionally, weekly safety meetings are conducted at each job site to review important topics such as:

  • ​General Site Safety
  • Emergency Procedures
  • Proper Use of Tools
  • Safe Vehicle Operation
  • ​Height Work
  • Proper Handling of Hazardous Substances
  • Personal Protection Equipment

Our goal is to be the safest construction company and therefore, we are continuously improving our program and striving to provide our employees with the most current information, training and equipment available. Our safety record is outstanding and represents the value we place on safety!

Corporate Citizenship

R.E. Kelley, Inc. believes giving back to the community is extremely important and a responsibility we take very seriously. Some of its sponsorships include:

  • ​​Tee off for Tots
  • Diocese of Buffalo Catholic Education
  • National Shrine of Our Lady of Victory Basilica
  • Niagara University
  • Stella Niagara
  • Sisters of St. Francis
  • Syracuse University
  • Cornell University Cooperative Extension
  • ​Explore & More Children’s Museum, Buffalo, NY
  • Buffalo Seminary
  • Sisters of St. Francis
  • Sacred Heart Academy
  • St. Ann’s Community, Rochester, NY
  • National Women’s Hall of Fame, Seneca Falls, NY
  • Villa Maria College
  • Niagara University

Awards

R.E. Kelley, Inc. is proud of being recognized as a leader in the industry. Some awards we have garnered over the years:

  • ​Business First Buffalo: “Fastrack 50”
  • Business First Buffalo: “Top 100 Private Companies” (since 1999)
  • 2007 American Concrete Institute Award of Merit – Syracuse University
  • 2007 American Concrete Institute Bronze Award – Colgate University
  • 2012 American Concrete Institute Bronze Award – Singer Castle, Chippewa Bay, New York
  • What services does R.E. Kelley provide?

    We specialize in exterior masonry restoration, concrete repair, waterproofing, joint sealants, traffic coatings, storefront/curtain wall repair, masonry coatings, and air barriers.

  • What types of buildings do you typically work on?

    Our projects range from historic churches and universities to commercial buildings, industrial facilities, and residential complexes.

  • How long has R.E. Kelley been in business?

    We’ve been serving Western and Upstate New York since 1934, with more than 90 years of proven experience in building restoration and repair.

  • Do you provide free estimates or proposals?

    Yes. Our team can provide detailed proposals that include scope of work, repair methods, and cost breakdowns.

  • Are you licensed and insured?

    Yes. We are fully licensed and insured to perform masonry restoration and related services in New York State, Pennsylvania and Ohio

  • Can you handle large-scale projects?

    Absolutely. Our portfolio includes multi-million-dollar restoration projects, as well as smaller repair jobs.

  • Do you work on historic buildings?

    Yes. We have extensive experience in historic masonry restoration, including specialized techniques and materials like terra cotta, limestone, and brick matching.

  • What geographic areas do you serve?

    We primarily serve Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, and surrounding regions in Western and Upstate New York.

  • What sets R.E. Kelley apart from other contractors?

    Our longevity, skilled workforce, and reputation for quality craftsmanship make us one of the most trusted names in restoration.

  • How do I start a project with you?

    You can reach us by phone, email, or through our website contact form. We’ll schedule a site visit, review your needs, and prepare a proposal.

  • Can you fix leaks in our building?

    Yes. We specialize in stopping leaks of all kinds, including those in below-grade foundation walls, around windows, and through masonry walls. Our team is highly skilled in diagnosing and repairing water intrusion to protect your building envelope. The only type of leak we do not repair is roof leaks.

  • Can you find a brick to match our building?

    Yes. Our team has extensive experience sourcing and matching brick for restoration projects. Decades ago, there were hundreds of brick manufacturers across North America; today, only a limited number remain, which can make finding a perfect match more challenging. We work closely with manufacturers, distributors, and specialty producers to locate the closest possible match in texture, size, color, and range. When an exact match is no longer available, we can recommend alternatives such as custom blending, reusing salvaged brick, or applying staining techniques to achieve a seamless look.

  • Can you match the mortar in our building?

    Absolutely. Mortar matching is one of our specialties. In fact, a section of our warehouse is dedicated to custom blending mortar colors to match existing joints. Mortar is primarily composed of sand, portland cement, lime, and water—with sand being the key factor that influences color and texture. We source a wide variety of sands to achieve accurate matches and can further adjust colors with concentrated pigments to ensure your repair blends naturally with the original construction.

  • How does weather affect your work?

    Weather conditions can impact when and how we perform work. Rain, high winds, and freezing temperatures all affect masonry repairs and coating applications, as these products require proper curing times to deliver a high-quality result. In the spring, ground conditions also play a role. Many of our projects require heavy equipment such as boom lifts and telescoping forklifts, and we need firm ground to operate safely and prevent site damage.