Plaster Master

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 The art of plastering may indeed be somewhat lost in today’s modern world of construction. Aside from historic homes, it’s hard to find the stunning ornamental plasterworks that graced the homes of yesteryear, and walls are more likely to be drywall than plaster. But plastering as an art form hasn’t disappeared completely, and the masters of this art are successfully bringing its beauty and function into the 21st century – with options that extend beyond the home’s interior walls. Combining true artistry with impeccable craftsmanship is what defines a true master of plaster. And it is what defines Dave Schilli.

Owner and president of Schilli Plastering Co., Dave continues the legacy left to him by his father, Elmer. With his son Ryan, Dave oversees the work of more than 20 veteran employees, each with 10 to 12 years of experience. “It’s a team concept at Schilli,” says Dave. “We all pitch in to get the job done. In fact, up until last year, Ryan was still spending a lot of  his time plastering pools.”

“My father started Schilli in 1950,” says Dave. “Back then, he did nothing but residential plastering, including ornamental, interior home, and exterior stucco plastering. Now of course, pools are also the benefactors of the craft. Schilli is the only Pebble Technology, Inc. licensed applicator in the Midwest. In addition to Pebble Tec®, Schilli also offers Pebble Sheen® and Pebble Fina®, as well as traditional Marcite plaster, Colorquartz Crystals, Beadcrete® and Diamond Brite™ finish. ArcusStone®, a product that closely resembles actual stone, is gaining popularity for interior and exterior residential and commercial applications,” says Dave. ArcusStone® weighs less than its genuine counterpart and can be far more cost-effective than the “real thing.”

As a three-generation family business, Schilli has the unique opportunity to maintain a constant flow of development from year to year and generation to generation. “Passing on skills, while gaining new ones, is priceless,” says Dave. “It’s what can make professionals stand out in their field.” And Schilli certainly stands out. From something as small as a crack repair to an interior plaster veneer, an exterior Stucco application, or a new or refurbished swimming pool, Schilli has the knowledge and experience to get the job done right. And even though most ornamental plastering work doesn’t exist anymore, Schilli still has professionals trained in this “lost” art at his company. They, in turn, will pass their knowledge to the younger guys. “We’ll never lose sight of this beautiful art form,” says Dave.

www.schilliplasteringco.com