Plumbing Division THE COBURN’S DIGEST Commercial Plumbing Edition 2024
THE DIVISIONS DIGEST
Table of Contents
Plumbing Division
About History 90th Year 4
Vendor Features 6
division overview 10
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COMMERCIAL PLUMBING EDITION 2024
Veiga Press Fitting system 12
Connect With us 18
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It’s not every day that a company reaches nine decades in business. Then again, Coburn Supply Company isn’t your average business. With a commitment to values that spans generations and customers who are as passionate about quality as we are, we look back with pride on how far we’ve come together— and can’t wait for what comes next. For 90 years, Coburn Supply Company has remained a family-owned distributor of commercial and residential plumbing, electrical, waterworks and HVAC products and services. Founder Albert J. Coburn, a New Orleans native who began his career as a plumbing and heating contractor, approached opportunities with nerve, imagination and persuasiveness. His legacy of hard work continues to impact the lives of almost 1,000 employees who work at Coburn’s today. By providing real solutions and stellar customer service, we have remained a top distributor of quality products since first opening in 1934. Today, Coburn’s works with the best vendors and manufacturers to offer dependable and high- quality products at a good price. We have more than 60 locations and three centrally located distribution centers serving Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee. Celebrating 90 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE
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“ There is no such thing as a little customer. If they are customers, then they are big, regardless of the size of their shop.
– Albert Coburn, Founder Supply House Times, 1963
What We’re Made Of Our mission is to be the best distributor of quality products, provide real solutions and never lose sight of the #1 reason we are in business—our customers. By capitalizing on our years of experience and expansive product inventory, we’ve created the most value for our customers and changed the way people approach home improvement. “90 years ago, we started as a family business. Today, we’re a family of innovators who all keep our eyes on the same prize—to deliver unrivaled service to our customers. On behalf of the entire Coburn’s leadership, thank you so much for choosing to be part of our Coburn’s family. We wouldn’t be the company we are without you.”
HONESTY We’re committed to doing the right thing–even when no one is watching. From product insights to customer support, honesty is in everything we do. COMPANY VALUES FAMILY The people we love are our guiding lights, and that dedication extends to anyone who steps through our doors. When you’re here, you’re one of us. STABILITY The storms of business come and go, but Coburn’s stays ready. Whenever you need dependable products and support, we’ll be here and ready to serve.
THE DIVISIONS DIGEST
THE BEST NAMES IN PLUMBING, ALL IN ONE PLACE.
POWER EVERY SHOWER Designed for residential and light commercial water lines, Zurn’s 600XL3 Pressure Reducing Valve with Integral Strainer delivers high-flow rate capacity and low-pressure falloff for the best water experience. • Reduces pressure loss over entire flow range for easier specification and sizing • Standard stainless internals and sealed cage for superior durability • Works effectively for new and retrofit installations • Single or double union connection options for flexibility • Cartridge internals improve repairability • Enhanced sealing of strainer access port reduces potential for leaks • Ideal for high-end residential and light commercial use • Meets the requirements of NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 and 372 and Safe Drinking Water Act • ASSE® Listed; cUPC® Listed; CSA® Certified
EXPAND WHAT’S POSSIBLE IN THE KITCHEN
Made of hard, natural quartz and high-performance UV- stable acrylic resins, Elkay Quartz Luxe® Single Bowl Apron Farmhouse Sink offers a hygienic, nonporous surface that resists germs while feeling luxurious to the touch. Available in brown, black, gray and white plus bold colors like red, blue and mint.
MEET THE NEXT GENERATION OF DISPOSALS
Equipped with advanced technologies that minimize noise, maximize performance and make installation easier than ever, the new Pro Model Disposals from InSinkErator are a must-have for the modern kitchen.
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COMMERCIAL PLUMBING EDITION 2024
A STEP BEYOND BEAUTIFUL Made with the homeowner experience in mind, the new Aspirations Collection from American Standard delivers stunning design, innovative functionality, environmentally-conscious performance and do-it- yourself ease in every piece. Discover the complete contemporary line today, featuring Polished Chrome, Matte Black and Brushed Nickel options. TIMELESS STYLE. TAILORED SOPHISTICATION. Discover the DXV Fitzgerald Collection featuring a stately architectural design that carries through its faucets, freestanding bathtub, sinks, toilet and accessories. Now available in three exquisite finish options: Polished Chrome, Brushed Nickel or Platinum Nickel.
PREMIUM QUALITY WITH EVERY PULL With a spray head that caters to comfort, the Grohe Zedra Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet lets you easily switch between three functions for optimal washing: regular stream, shower spray and a powerful blade spray.
CREATE CONNECTIONS WITH BITE Discover the connecting power of Sharkbite MAX, a fitting system that delivers additional strength and double the standard burst pressure of its competitors.
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THE DIVISIONS DIGEST
THE DIFFERENCE YOU CAN SEE Delivering the highest chlorine resistance rating along with six months of UV protection, Uponor AquaPEX® Red and Blue tackle plumbing challenges by providing color differentiation in an easy-to-identify solution for hot- water and cold-water plumbing lines.
MORE POWER IN EVERY FLUSH Harness the hygienic power of complete rinse coverage with the Ultra Flush® 1.0 gpf Pressure Assist Toilet from Gerber. Boasting top-of-the-line professional performance, this toilet’s tank uses a pressure vessel that releases compressed air in a downward path and forces water into the bowl, fully clearing waste out for a fresher bathroom experience. CLASSIC DESIGN. REFRESHING INNOVATION. Elevate the hygiene of any bathroom with the bidet seat Washlet C5 from TOTO. With a PREMIST® function that sprays the bowl before each use and personalized comfort features, the C5 delivers a satisfying cleansing experience every time.
AMERICAN-POWERED FOUNDRY INNOVATION
From improved processes and production capacity to environmental sustainability, see how the Charlotte Pipe’s all-new foundry is revitalizing American plumbing and supply like never before.
PREMIER ® WATER HEATING IS HERE Easy to install and designed for seamless smart connectivity, the Premier® AL Smart Hybrid Electric Heat Pump from State features new anti-leak features that provide peace of mind and performance heating year round.
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COMMERCIAL PLUMBING EDITION 2024
REINFORCEMENT YOU CAN RELY ON Get durable backflow protection for every job with the Watts Series LF009 reduced pressure valve assembly backflow preventer.
ENHANCED PROTECTION FOR GAS INSTALLATION Homes are evolving, and so are the gas delivery requirements of today’s homeowners. With FlashShield+ from Gastite, you get all of the electrical and lightning safety your clients demand, plus several new innovations that make it easier to assemble and install.
SIMPLY SUPERIOR SEPTIC PERFORMANCE
Keep the septic system flowing smoothly with a performance grinder pump from Little Giant. With the powerful 1 HP grinder pump configuration now available, you can ensure septic waste is processed efficiently for optimal plumbing performance.
DESIGNED TO DELIVER EVERY TIME Get performance water heating with the EZ Series of Residential Condensing Tankless Water Heaters from Noritz. In addition to the dual stainless steel heat exchangers that offer a greater resistance to corrosion and scale buildup, these water heater models share critical design features that help ease maintenance and boost overall performance.
SLEEK STYLE. SATISFYING HYDRATION. Designed with aesthetics in mind, Sloan DropSpot™ bottle fillers deliver fresh water in style thanks to durable and timeless finishes, like stainless steel and black coated galvanized steel, that fit any commercial environment.
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THE DIVISIONS DIGEST
COMMERCIAL PLUMBING DIVISION OVERVIEW
Great Products, RIGHT WHERE YOU NEED THEM Coburn’s has you covered with more than 70 branches of stocked plumbing, electrical, waterworks and HVAC product inventory. These branches offer daily delivery from centrally located distribution centers in Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi. Coburn’s has everything you need for plumbing projects big and small.
Please contact your local store or visit us at coburns.com for more information.
DOWNLOAD THE COBURN’S CONNECT MOBILE APP
BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY IN THE PALM OF YOUR HAND
ACCOUNTING PORTAL Access live accounting data, open orders, and years worth of transaction history through the Coburn’s Connect accounting portal. ORDER TEMPLATES Product orders are a breeze with our new and improved order templates featuring a barcode generator for use within the app.
REPLENISHMENT PROGRAM Coburn’s Connect offers a fast & easy way to restock your shelves–just scan product barcodes to add to your Order Queue.
Ready to get started? Download the Coburn’s Connect app today!
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COMMERCIAL PLUMBING EDITION 2024
QUICK LINKS
Coburn’s is your one-stop shop for plumbing expertise. Dive into the details of all our available plumbing products and services or learn more through our collection of educational videos, resources and upcoming training opportunities near you. YOUR TRUSTED PLUMBING RESOURCE HUB
TOTO Pro Tool American Standard Resources Delta For Professionals Sloan Resources & Downloads Moen Literature Center InSinkErator Literature Center Charlotte Dimensional Catalogs Watts Resources Elkay Learning Center
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THE DIVISIONS DIGEST
TO SWITCH OR NOT TO SWITCH:
TOP FACTORS PLUMBERS SHOULD CONSIDER BEFORE CHANGING TO A VIEGA PRESS FITTING SYSTEM In recent years, usage of press fittings has boomed across the plumbing and HVAC industries. The most popular options are produced by Viega—the ProPress® and MegaPress® and MegaPress G® fittings systems. For contractor converts, the consensus is that these systems solve a variety of day-to-day project challenges, even despite the hurdles they had to overcome in the beginning.
For those still on the fence, however, there may be lingering concerns. If you’re in this boat, let’s take a closer look to see whether switching to press fittings is the right move for your business.
1. PRESS TECHNOLOGY: Viega fittings utilize press connection technology, eliminating the need for soldering, threading or welding. This makes installations faster, safer and more reliable. What’s more, press connections can be made wet or dry in seven seconds or less on copper, carbon or stainless steel pipe in a range of diameters. 2. VERSATILITY: Viega fittings are available in a variety of materials, including copper, stainless steel and PEX, allowing contractors to work with different types of systems such as potable water, gas, radiant heating and industrial applications. 3. SECURE SEALS: Viega offers fitting options that include an EPDM, FKM or HNBR sealing element that creates a secure, long-lasting, leak-proof connection. This minimizes the risk of future leaks or failures. 4. SMART CONNECT FEATURE: Viega fittings have a Smart Connect feature that allows installers to quickly identify unpressed fittings during installation, reducing errors and improving safety. 5. WIDE RANGE OF SIZES: Viega offers fittings in a wide variety of sizes, from small residential systems to large commercial or industrial applications. 6. CODE COMPLIANCE: Viega products meet or exceed various local and international codes, including ASME, ASTM and UL certifications, ensuring they meet the highest standards for safety and performance.
How Does a Press Fitting System Compare to Traditional Methods?
For soldering, threading and welding work, your main benefits lie in the low material costs and fact that you don’t need proprietary tools to get the job done. After all, these are tried and true methods for a reason. However, what contractors don’t spend on materials and tools often gets lost in the long labor times involved with these methods. There may also be safety concerns with heat application for soldering, and any one of these approaches runs the risk of leaks if not done properly. On the flip side, Viega press fittings offer more pipe fitting configurations approved than any other brand. There are special tools needed to get started, though, which comes with a sizable price tag and learning curve for beginners. But don’t let that worry you—product trainings are offered across the US, including at Coburn Supply locations, so hitting the ground running is more than doable for proactive businesses. Once those hurdles are cleared, the real competitive edge of a Viega system shines. Here are the biggest differentiating features to consider when comparing press fittings to your standard approach for connections:
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COMMERCIAL PLUMBING EDITION 2024
4. VERSATILITY ACROSS APPLICATIONS Viega press system fittings are designed with adaptation in mind. With multiple fitting types for HVAC & plumbing and more than 400 different configurations for copper and 350 for stainless steel, these systems can easily be used in a wide range of applications. This utility range makes them an especially attractive choice for contractors who encounter different installation scenarios often and need a versatile tool to tackle any challenge. 5. LOWER LABOR COSTS With less time needed to complete jobs, more projects can theoretically be done in a shorter amount of time. That means more cash flow in for the same amount of labor time. But the savings don’t stop there. After initial training, press fitting tools actually require less skilled labor compared to soldering, threading or welding methods. It also removes the need for open flames and other hazards that increase the risk of injury. This means that less experienced workers can be utilized on the job site, helping to fill workforce gaps when traditional method specialists aren’t available. Plus with less risk for injury, your overall jobsite liability goes down as well. 6. WARRANTY & ONGOING SUPPORT While the initial costs of moving to press fittings can be eyebrow raising, it does come with a high degree of confidence for your investment. Every Viega system comes with a robust product warranty, technical support and educational resources to help contractors during installations and routine maintenance. If a fitting or valve fails after a textbook installation, Viega can provide remedial support to address the faulty product. That’s reassurance you just don’t get with traditional connection methods.
Benefits of Switching to a Press Fitting System
We’ve covered what Viega brings to the table. But what does that mean on the contractor’s end? What can you and your business get from implementing press fittings into your workflow? As it turns out, quite a bit. 1. FASTER INSTALLATION Considering how quickly press fittings can create leakproof connections, contractors can expect significantly less time needed to complete a job compared to traditional methods. This means teams can complete larger projects faster as well, allowing them to move on to their next job more quickly. 2. IMPROVED SAFETY ON JOB SITES No flame? No problem. By eliminating the need for heat sources during installation, press fittings reduce the risk of fire, burns and other heat-related hazards at work sites. Not only does this make environments safer for contractors—it helps protect the building and keep its occupants safe from harm, too. 3. ENHANCED RELIABILITY Viega press systems take leak-proofing one step further with its precision-engineered fittings, secure sealing elements (EPDM, FKM and HNBR) on select fittings and a Smart Connect feature, which identifies incomplete or insecure connections in real time. No guesswork required. Together, these features provide long-term durability and peace of mind for every connection made.
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THE DIVISIONS DIGEST
The Challenges of Moving to Press Fittings As with any new technology, there are drawbacks to consider when thinking about adopting a press fitting system for your business. By comparing these hurdles to your overall workflow needs and long- term project plans, you’ll be able to assess if upgrading is an appropriate next step.
1. INITIAL INVESTMENT COSTS Ok, so this is a big one for many businesses, and understandably so. But the reality is, moving to press fittings requires an initial investment that some contractors may deem too high to justify. One system runs in the ballpark of $4,000, so depending on how many sets your team needs, your final upfront cost could easily land in the five-digits. 2. TRAINING AND LEARNING CURVE In the grand scheme of things, learning how to solder, thread or weld actually takes far more practice and skill to deliver a solid connection compared to the press fittings method. However, that doesn’t mean there isn’t a learning curve to using the system effectively. Contractors will need time to train with their new press system in order to properly install connections, so we recommend including training in your transition timeline from the beginning.
3. TOOL MAINTENANCE AND COMPATIBILITY With any specialized tool system, your gear will require regular maintenance to get the most out of its lifetime performance. Additionally, you will want to take a look at the other pieces of equipment you work with to see if a Viega system is compatible. If not, there may be more costs involved to replace incompatible pieces. 4. COST OF MATERIALS Compared to the materials needed for traditional methods, Viega fittings tend to be more expensive per unit. This will increase project costs on the front end, which could be recouped with faster, more efficient installation on the back end. Because work speed varies greatly from team to team (even despite speed- enhancing tools), material costs should be factored into the ability of your team and client needs.
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COMMERCIAL PLUMBING EDITION 2024
What Are Other Pros Saying?
CURTIS FORD, OWNER OF FORD PLUMBING What method did your team previously use to make pipe connections before switching to press fittings? “We’re primarily focused on small residential setups, so we were doing a good bit of copper sweating prior to switching to press fittings.” In your mind, has switching paid off for your business? “Certainly. I got my first taste of using a MegaPress system on a previous job I worked at using 3” galvanized steel. I was immediately sold. It just makes every job quicker and cleaner.” “Another great advantage of Viega I really like is that the fittings are designed [with Smart Connect technology] so they won’t hold pressure if the fitting isn’t pressed. When you put air in the system, you know immediately if it’s installed correctly.” – Nicholas Messenger, Owner, Kohler Fire Protection What advice would you give to a business owner or standalone contractor who is considering making the jump to press fittings? “I know the price point can be a jump, but if you’re not convinced enough to buy in, I recommend looking for shops that will let you rent a MegaPress or ProPress to try. That’s the best way to see what they can do.”
JOSH HUDSON, OWNER AT DESIGN PLUMBING What was the deciding factor for you to switch to press fittings? “We did a lot of soldering before press fittings became a thing. The biggest draw was the time factor. We could cut down to a quarter of the time on jobs. That, and there wasn’t a big mess to clean up. We didn’t have to worry about the soldering materials contaminating the water line.”
In your mind, has switching paid off for your business? “Yes, 100%. The fittings themselves cost a little more, but time is money and we’re saving a lot of time.”
What advice would you give to a business owner or standalone contractor who is considering making the jump to press fittings? “Don’t be afraid to try it. It’s so easy to use. Anyone could pick it up and learn how to make a solid connection. Seriously, anyone.”
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THE DIVISIONS DIGEST
Is a Viega Press Fitting System Right for Your Business? Here are 3 Questions to Ask Yourself.
1. WHAT TYPES OF PROJECTS DOES YOUR BUSINESS FOCUS ON?
2. WHAT ENVIRONMENTS DO YOUR CONTRACTORS TYPICALLY WORK IN?
Do you primarily work on large-scale commercial projects where speed and safety are critical? Or do you often find yourself working on smaller residential projects? If it’s the former (or a combination of the two), press fittings may make the most sense with its versatility, speed and connection reliability. Plus, larger projects come with higher budgets, which could offset the difference in material costs. If you mainly focus on small projects, traditional methods may be the most cost-effective in the short term. However, we suggest doing a longer financial projection that considers all costs involved to see when your investment costs would be recouped with profit and time savings before making a final decision.
Certain work environments make welding or soldering impractical. If your projects often place you in tight spaces with limited access, a press system would be the ideal solution for you. With its compact design and no-flame-needed operation, you can safely make connections in small areas where other methods simply wouldn’t work. 3. WHAT IS THE SKILLSET OF YOUR TEAM? For crews with ample soldering, welding or threading experience, traditional methods may still be viable since your team members have the skills to quickly make those types of connections compared to the average worker. If your team is a mixed bag skillswise or you anticipate turnover and plan to add younger talent, moving to a new technology now could pay off in the long run.
Viega Metals Solutions Viega ProPress and MegaPress Systems
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COMPONENTS
COMMERCIAL PLUMBING EDITION 2024
1. Lockable lever handle, stainless steel 304 2. Body – stainless steel 316 3. Bolts – stainless steel 304 4. MegaPress Connections – multiple materials • Full port ball – stainless steel 316 (excludes 2") • Blowout-proof stem – stainless steel and PTFE
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Find the Right Solution for You Overall, there’s no doubt that Viega ProPress pipe fittings offer contractors improved efficiency, safety and reliability on the job— making these tools an excellent choice for any pipe project. What’s more, Viega MegaPress 3-Piece Ball Valve
their ease of use and adaptability to different systems can help deliver high-quality results in less time. The question remains: How do these benefits stack up to the costs and training needed to get started?
“Just about every contractor we talk to has saved up to 50% on overall costs with press fittings. Getting started with anything new can be intimidating, but it’s definitely an option worth exploring if efficiency is your priority.” – Tyler Roberts, Branch Manager at Coburn Supply (Greater Houston)
If you’re curious about switching, visit your local Coburn Supply today to explore Viega ProPress® and MegaPress® fitting systems firsthand. For budget questions, our consultants can provide additional information on pricing and financing options. We also offer training and product demonstrations to get you and your team started.
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THE DIVISIONS DIGEST
Updates You’ll Love REFRESHED DESIGN
With its new modern and visually appealing design, the streamlined layout will enhance navigation to improve your shopping experience. ENHANCED FEATURES Our new functionalities include tools, resources and sitewide options to help you optimize your time spent on our website. MOBILE RESPONSIVENESS Our new website is fully responsive, ensuring that you can access and enjoy all its features seamlessly across various devices, including smartphones and tablets. PERSONALIZED ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT We have introduced a personalized account management system that allows you to have better control over your additional web users & order templates.
DISCOVER THE NEW COBURNS.COM Coburn Supply Company is committed to giving you the best possible customer experience. With this in mind, we’ve given our online home a complete makeover—all to offer you a more intuitive, user-friendly platform. You can expect this exciting upgrade to arrive soon. In the meantime, get to know the new features headed your way, and see how they’ll help you make every project easier.
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COMMERCIAL PLUMBING EDITION 2024
LET’S CONNECT
To ensure doing business with us is an easy and efficient process, Coburn’s provides online access to:
• Product pricing and availability • Account management • Job history • Wish lists for future orders • Up to 90 days of invoice & payment history Plus, our online chat feature makes communicating with us easier than ever. Visit Coburns.com to set up your online account today.
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