For more than 25 years, Richard Sangiorgi has led Elite Wall Systems Inc. with passion, expertise and an unwavering commitment to quality. With nearly four decades of experience in the construction industry, Sangiorgi has built a company that specializes in an array of services, including EIFS, cement stucco, cultured stone, plastering, ornamental moldings and more. Based in Deer Park, N.Y., the company has made a name for itself as a leader in interior and exterior restoration, and throughout the Northeast/Tri-State area. 

Sangiorgi’s journey in the trades began early. As a creative child, he was naturally drawn to hands-on work. By the age of 19, he had already acquired experience in multiple trades, including carpentry, electrical, plumbing, roofing, painting, and tiling. His passion for construction led him to pursue a degree in architecture at SUNY Farmingdale, where he honed his design and structural knowledge. 

His first professional role was as an assistant project manager for a large union subcontractor specializing in commercial drywall, acoustical ceilings, flooring, and plaster. Demonstrating exceptional leadership and business acumen, Sangiorgi quickly rose through the ranks, eventually overseeing hundreds of employees as an operations manager. At 32, he took the leap to establish his own business—Elite Wall Systems —which has since seen consistent growth and success. 

   

Images courtesy of Elite Wall Systems

A Business Built on Expertise and Excellence 

The company operates with a team ranging from eight to 10 office employees and between 40 to 60 field workers, depending on the project workload. The company’s expertise lies in EIFS, conventional plaster, acoustical plaster, and both interior and exterior restoration. Sangiorgi ensures his workforce is highly trained, with all field mechanics and operations team members being EIFS Smart Certified and current in OSHA training and certified in acoustical plaster applications. 

With affiliations including AWCI, EIMA, WC&C New York, BAC Plasterers and LIBI, Sangiorgi is deeply embedded in the industry’s best practices and standards. His company works with top manufacturers such as Sto Corp, USG Plaster, StarSilent Acoustical Plaster/Pyrok and more, ensuring that only high-quality materials are used in their projects. 

Navigating Industry Challenges and Growth 

The past 25 years have not been without challenges. The rising costs of fuel, materials, taxes, insurance and over-regulations have presented difficulties for many contractors in New York. Sangiorgi highlights a particularly burdensome issue—the state’s outdated labor laws (200, 240 and 241 aka “Scaffolding Law”) enacted in 1885, for which many states followed suit (Acts 200, 240, and 241)—which have driven insurance premiums up drastically. While other states have moved on from these century-old regulations many years ago, New York’s strict liability laws make it significantly more expensive for contractors to operate. Today, New York state is the only one not to repeal this outdated law.  

Despite these challenges, Elite Wall Systems has continued to grow. Two years ago was its highest-grossing year, and while the latter half of 2024 has been slower, Sangiorgi remains optimistic, as the company’s backlog for 2025 is on track to exceed all previous sales records. 

   

Images courtesy of Elite Wall Systems

Working on Innovative Projects 

One of Elite Wall Systems’ most exciting projects in recent years has been the Linden Grove Project, a 13-story modular structure designed for affordable senior housing under New York City Housing Authority. This project, built to meet U.S. Green Building and LEED standards, presented a unique opportunity for innovation. Elite Wall Systems developed a hybrid EIFS panel system, enabling them to work offsite during the winter months—typically a slow period for their trade. This project was also among the first in the United States to incorporate the new StoCast Brick product, demonstrating the company’s willingness to embrace cutting-edge building technologies. But the StoCast Brick system has been proven performance for 20 years of project use in Europe before starting up manufacturing in the United States.  

When asked what sets Elite Wall Systems apart from the competition, Sangiorgi points to 38 years experience in drywall and plastering, highly skilled union labor, and a commitment to safety. His leadership philosophy is simple yet effective: build a team that is well-rounded in multiple trades, instill discipline and safety-first attitudes, and maintain an accident-free work zone. 

The company is also financially prudent. Sangiorgi has weathered three major recessions in his career and learned the importance of saving for downturns and making wise investments, including real estate. His cost-conscious mindset has enabled Elite Wall Systems to remain stable even in uncertain economic times. 

Beyond Business 

Beyond his professional achievements, Sangiorgi cherishes time with his family. A proud father of three, he looks forward to watching his children carve their own paths. When not working, he enjoys boating and fishing—his two biggest passions outside of business. 

His love for architecture extends beyond construction; if given the opportunity, he’d love to tour Shanghai, China, or Dubai to admire its modern high-rise marvels. He also likes to visit Europe to see the ancient architecture of the Old World, which draws him back to his interest in ornamental plaster.  

Asked about a dream dinner guest, Sangiorgi’s answer was heartfelt—his parents. His values, both in business and in life, reflect a deep respect for family, integrity, and perseverance. 

What the Future Holds 

Sangiorgi’s long-term goal is to continue growing Elite Wall Systems at a sustainable pace while maintaining the balance between work and family life, which he also instills in all his employees. His focus remains on building a company culture where employees are empowered to lead and take pride in their work. By upholding strong ethical and professional standards, he has created a company that is not just surviving—but thriving. 

Through decades of hard work, innovation, and a steadfast dedication to quality, Sangiorgi has solidified his place as one of the most respected contractors in Northeast region/Tri-State area. As the industry continues to evolve, one thing remains certain: Elite Wall Systems will continue to set the benchmark for excellence in the years to come.

For more information, visit elitewallsys.com.