Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Insulation & Waterproofing Materials Supplier in New England
Sterling Building Materials has served the New England construction industry since 1946, evolving from a wartime blackout shade manufacturer to a trusted wholesale distributor of residential and commercial insulation and waterproofing materials. Founded by John Wills Sr., our family-owned business has maintained core values of honesty, respect, and attentiveness across three generations. My father, John Wills Jr., led the company for decades with integrity and business acumen, instilling in me the principles that continue to guide our operations. We prioritize treating suppliers and customers with professionalism while delivering high-quality products and tailored solutions. Our expertise spans breathable air barriers, elastomeric waterproofing membranes, and advanced insulation systems from leading manufacturers.With over 75 years of combined industry experience, we support contractors in selecting optimal materials for energy-efficient, durable building envelopes. Our commitment to innovation is demonstrated through partnerships with brands like Carlisle, Dow, and Roxul, ensuring access to cutting-edge technologies. We maintain a comprehensive inventory of firestop solutions, vapor barriers, and specialty sealants to meet diverse project requirements. Our technical team provides application guidance and product specifications to ensure compliance with building codes and performance standards. This dedication to service excellence has established us as a preferred materials supplier for commercial and residential construction professionals throughout New England.
Services
Waterproofing Materials
Insulation Products
Firestop Solutions
Roof Hatches
DIY Products
Details
- Year established: 1946
Highlights and features
- Three generations of expertise in building materials since 1946
- Exclusive partnerships with leading manufacturers like Carlisle and Dow
- Technical specialists with 75+ combined years of construction industry experience
- Comprehensive inventory of air barrier systems and firestop solutions
- Customized product specifications for commercial and residential projects
Services
Waterproofing Materials
We provide commercial-grade waterproofing systems including liquid-applied membranes and self-adhered vapor barriers. Our products protect foundation walls and structural elements from moisture intrusion while meeting ASTM standards. Contractors benefit from technical support for proper application methods and code compliance.
Insulation Products
Our insulation offerings include mineral wool batts, rigid foam boards, and polyisocyanurate panels. These products enhance energy efficiency in walls, roofs, and floors while providing fire resistance and sound control. We supply solutions for both new construction and retrofit projects.
Firestop Solutions
We distribute fire-rated sealants and penetration firestops that maintain compartmentalization in building assemblies. Our products meet UL fire safety standards and include intumescent sealants that expand under heat to prevent flame spread through openings.
Roof Hatches
We supply code-compliant roof hatches and access systems that provide safe maintenance access to rooftop equipment. Our products feature weather-tight seals and durable construction to withstand commercial rooftop environments while maintaining roof system integrity.
DIY Products
We offer select waterproofing and sealing products for homeowner use. These include caulking compounds, silicone sealants, and vapor barrier materials that enable effective moisture management in residential applications while maintaining professional-grade performance standards.
People
John Wills III
President
Third-generation leader with 30 years of experience in building materials distribution. Oversees operations after working alongside his father for three decades. Maintains family commitment to integrity while expanding product offerings to include modern construction technologies.
Questions
What types of waterproofing materials do you carry?
We offer liquid-applied asphalt emulsions, self-adhered vapor permeable membranes, and elastomeric coatings from Carlisle and Henry. These products suit below-grade foundation protection and above-ground weatherproofing applications.
Do you provide technical support for product selection?
Yes, our experienced team offers application guidance, code compliance assistance, and product specification services to ensure proper material selection for your project requirements.
What insulation brands are available?
We distribute Roxul mineral wool products including CavityRock and Comfortboard, plus Dow Thermax, Styrofoam, and Polyisocyanurate insulation solutions for commercial and residential construction.
Are fire-rated sealants available?
Yes, we stock Specified Technologies firestop products including intumescent sealants and smoke barrier solutions that meet UL fire safety standards for penetration sealing.
Do you serve residential customers?
While primarily serving commercial contractors, we offer select DIY waterproofing and sealing products for homeowners through our retail partners.
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Reviews (4)
Rostyslav Levener
May 08, 2022
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Do not recommend buying from them. Rude service, unprofessional staff and overall terrible business practice.
Emily Wills
Dec 22, 2019
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John and Matt are very reliable and responsive. A great business to work with, and their receptionist Eileen is always a pleasure as well. Deliveries are always on time as well.
Caroline Cranna
Apr 23, 2019
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I had a great experience working with Sterling. Matt was very knowledgeable and professional. They are the best in the business throughout the New England area.
Jeremy Burstyn
Feb 27, 2019
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Really nice people with great follow-up. Helpful and professional. Knowledgeable about the products. My go to for insulation and waterproofing materials.
