Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Emergency
services
Award-Winning Commercial Construction Services
Cely Construction has been a trusted name in the construction industry since 1948, serving clients across Greenville, SC, and surrounding areas. Founded by five brothers returning from World War II, the company built its reputation on integrity, quality, and a commitment to community. Over 75 years, Cely has evolved into a family-owned enterprise specializing in commercial, industrial, educational, and religious construction projects. Their expertise spans design-build solutions, tenant upfits, fire and storm restoration, and pre-engineered buildings. With a team of experienced project managers and third-generation leadership, Cely delivers tailored construction solutions that prioritize client needs.Recognized with multiple Excellence in Construction Awards and a 30-year certification as a Butler Building Specialist, the company maintains a legacy of safety, innovation, and client satisfaction. Testimonials from long-term clients, including architects and subcontractors, highlight their proactive communication, attention to detail, and ability to meet deadlines. As a community-focused business, Cely actively participates in local initiatives and economic development projects, ensuring their work contributes to regional growth while honoring their founding principles.
Services
Design-Build Construction
Tenant Up-Fits
Fire Restoration
Pre-Engineered Buildings
Church Construction
School Renovations
Commercial Additions
Storm Damage Repair
Details
- Year established: 1948
Highlights and features
- 75% of clients are repeat customers due to consistent quality and reliability
- Family-owned since 1948 with third-generation leadership and industry expertise
- Certified Butler Building Specialists with 30 years of specialized experience
- Award-winning safety record and multiple Excellence in Construction Awards
- Proactive communication and guaranteed maximum pricing for project transparency
Associations and certifications
- Butler Manufacturing
- Professional Construction Estimators Association
- American Institute of Constructors
What people say
Attention to detail
Proactive communication
Award-winning quality
Family-owned integrity
Timely completion
Services
Design-Build Construction
Cely Construction's design-build services integrate architecture, engineering, and construction under one contract. This streamlined approach reduces costs and timelines while maintaining quality control. Clients benefit from early pricing input and fast-tracking options that allow construction to begin before final designs are complete. The method ensures cohesive project execution from concept to occupancy.
Tenant Up-Fits
Specialized tenant upfit solutions transform commercial spaces to meet specific business needs. Cely's team handles code compliance, safety upgrades, and aesthetic modifications while minimizing operational disruption. Their experience spans retail, medical, and office environments, ensuring functional spaces that align with brand identity and regulatory requirements.
Fire Restoration
Cely provides rapid response fire restoration services to minimize business downtime. Their in-house crews and materials warehouse enable swift damage assessment and repairs. Services include structural stabilization, content cleaning, and code-compliant rebuilding. The team coordinates with insurance companies to streamline claims processing and ensure full property recovery.
Pre-Engineered Buildings
As Butler Manufacturing representatives, Cely offers pre-engineered steel buildings for industrial and commercial applications. These structures provide durable, cost-effective solutions with faster installation times. Customizable designs accommodate warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and retail spaces while maintaining energy efficiency and long-term value.
Church Construction
With over 500 completed church projects, Cely specializes in worship spaces that balance aesthetics and functionality. Services include sanctuary construction, fellowship hall additions, and accessibility upgrades. The team collaborates with congregations to create sacred spaces that reflect spiritual values while meeting modern building standards.
People
Sam Cely
President/CEO
Third-generation leader with 35+ years of construction management experience. Past President of Professional Construction Estimators Association and active community leader. Graduated from Spartanburg Methodist College, overseeing Cely's strategic direction and client relations.
Caroline Cely Talbott
CFO
Third-generation executive managing finance and operations since 2015. Holds commercial builder licenses in SC and GA. 2013 NAWIC Member of the Year with expertise in project management and safety compliance. Graduated from University of South Carolina.
Stephen Henderson
Vice President
25+ years of construction experience with Clemson University BS in Building Construction. Certified Butler Metal Building Specialist leading pre-engineered solutions. Active in community food pantries and church leadership programs.
Kevin Talbott
COO
Clemson University chemical engineering graduate with decade of construction management experience. Oversees project teams and client relations. Implements strategic growth initiatives while maintaining operational excellence across all project phases.
William Cely
Project Manager
Third-generation estimator/project manager with field experience since 2016. Focuses on quality control and client satisfaction. Combines traditional values with modern construction techniques to deliver successful project outcomes.
Questions
What construction services does Cely offer?
Cely provides design-build construction, tenant upfits, fire/storm restoration, pre-engineered buildings, church construction, and school renovations across Upstate SC, NC, and GA.
How long has Cely been in business?
Cely Construction has operated continuously since 1948, making it a 75-year-old family-owned business with third-generation leadership.
What makes Cely different from other contractors?
Cely combines 75 years of experience with guaranteed pricing, fast-tracking options, and 24/7 emergency response. Their 30-year Butler certification and 75% repeat client rate demonstrate reliability.
Do you serve commercial and residential clients?
While primarily serving commercial clients, Cely handles select residential projects like barns and multi-family units through their pre-engineered building division.
What areas do you service?
Cely operates throughout Upstate South Carolina, including Greenville and Spartanburg, with licensed projects in North Carolina and Georgia.
How does Cely handle project timelines?
Using design-build fast-tracking and experienced project managers, Cely typically completes projects 20-30% faster than industry averages while maintaining quality standards.
