Featured Videos

Leaning Ladders

I’ve decided to give a new idea a try, side-by-side reviews of similar tools when I have them. I know technically its not a new idea but I have resisted in the past because its can be too easy to be one-sided or bias. Oh well, I’m human and so are you so let’s be real here. We all have an opinion on something, in this case I will make sure I give each tool a fair shot and run it thru its paces so I can report back truthfully, as I would for a stand alone review.

This style of step ladder is relatively new to the construction world. Convertible ladders have been around for years but previous models have always been cumbersome and heavy making which often resulted in strain and/or injury in transport and use. This style ladder is intended to be used primarily as a step ladder but can quickly and easily be converted into a short extension ladder when needed. Both have some unique features when compared to the typical step ladder, like the ability to fit between studs in a rough wall for example.

Please watch the video for a close look and overall opinion from me on the two main offerings in the leaning, convertible ladder space.

Nibco adds new Iron, Copper for Gas & ACR Press Fittings

Copper and iron press fittings are a mainstay in the plumbing and hvac industry. Nearly every job site, project or contractor has made the switch to this technology because of the promise of labor savings.

Heres a look at what is coming in 2020 from Nibco. I think what is most interesting is their entry into the Press G market (copper press fittings for gas). I’m located in Minnesota, copper piping for all fuel gas is common for both residential and commercial work. One of Nibco’s biggest competitors has recently pulled their copper press gas fitting off shelves in North America due to some changes to the CSA testing and certification standard. Nibco’s gas fittings have the CSA US stamp on them which should make them acceptable wherever copper piping for gas is allowed.

Webstone is known for creating valves and fittings that make installing plumbing, gas and boiler systems easier.

In this video we see a few new innovative plumbing and gas fittings that address issues with Iron Pipe Press (MegaPress) and copper fin tube baseboard radiator piping from Webstone.

Copper press technology has been around for decades now, iron pipe press is newer of course but proven as well. Have you or has your company adopted press as a main form of pipe joining? Questions and comments are welcome below!

Hub on the Road Series

Our first stop at AHR Expo in Orlando was with our friends at Bradford White Water Heaters to see the newest addition to the heat pump water heater lineup and a all new direct vent gas tank water heater. Watch all the way to the end for the blooper/outtakes.

Each episode of the  Hub on the Road video series will be posted to our YouTube channel so subscribe now to get notifications whenever a new episode is available. Thanks for watching!