50 Years of Excellence - Timeline

Post–World War II (Late 1940s–1960s)

• The construction industry enters a period of major transformation with new materials, methods, and building technologies.

• Innovation accelerates, but uncertainty grows—creating a need for industry leadership and best practices.

Late 1960s–Early 1970s

• Grenadier Corporation (New York) and Culbertson Caulking Company (Philadelphia) begin early trial projects using newly developed polysulfide polymers from Thiokol Chemical Corporation.

• With support from Thiokol technical sales representative Armen D. Yazujian, a key realization emerges:
  the sealant and waterproofing industry needs a unified voice.

August 2, 1974 — The Meeting That Started It All

• At Bookbinders Restaurant, Armen Yazujian introduces George Grenadier and Mike Chiodo.

• This meeting becomes the catalyst for creating an organization dedicated to identity, credibility, and best practices for the industry.

Late 1974–Early 1975

• Planning meetings are held across New York, New Jersey, and Philadelphia.

• Grenadier and Chiodo identify the most qualified and reputable contractors across the United States and Canada, invited by trust and recommendation—not marketing.

• Core principles take shape:

  • Membership limited to active contractors

  • Independence from manufacturer funding

  • Open exchange of technical and business knowledge

  • Meetings focused on real work, not “boilerplate conventions”

1976 — The Sealant and Waterproofers Institute Officially Founded

• The Sealant and Waterproofers Institute is formally established.

1977 — Manufacturers Join the Institute

• Manufacturers are invited to become members, expanding collaboration while supporting the Institute’s mission.

1988 — Restoration Is Added

• Restoration becomes a formal part of the organization’s scope.

• The name changes to the Sealant, Waterproofing & Restoration Institute to reflect the expanded focus.

1994 — Design Professionals Welcomed

• The Institute opens membership to design professionals, strengthening collaboration between contractors and the design community.

1990s–Today — Growth and Industry Advancement

Over time, the Institute evolves from an exclusive group to a mission focused on improving the industry for all, while maintaining its founding principles.

What Has Remained Consistent Over 50 Years

• SWR Institute meetings remain a trusted place for contractors to share:

  • technical knowledge

  • business best practices

• Meetings continue to be unique and different from typical industry conventions.

• Contractors retain control of the organization:

  • 11 of 15 board seats are held by contractors

  • only contractors can serve as officers

• The Institute has not relied too heavily on manufacturer financial support.

Key SWR Institute Accomplishments (Over 50 Years)

• Established The Applicator Magazine to share valuable industry information

• Created product validation and training validation programs

• Developed technical resources including:

  • manuals

  • Technical Bulletins

  • guidance covering major scopes of work performed by members

• Formed the first alliance with OSHA, leading to expanded safety resources

• Created signature recognition programs including:

  • Trinity Awards

  • Award of Excellence

  • additional awards honoring member dedication to the Institute and industry

• Formed the SWR Foundation, providing scholarships for construction-related degrees

• Expanded membership from 12 original members to nearly 300 today

Today — 50 Years Strong

• SWR Institute continues building the industry through leadership, integrity, collaboration, and education.

Looking Ahead

• What began as a small group responding to an urgent industry need has become a lasting organization strengthening projects, professionals, and the future of the industry—together.