When you walk into a supply house with a renovation list as long as a copper coil, you don’t want guesswork—you want a plan. I’m Rick Callahan, owner of Plumbing Supply And More, and I’ve spent decades helping contractors and dedicated DIYers get exactly what they need the first time. This is The Supply House Shopping Checklist for DIY Renovators I use with my own team, refined from real jobsite wins and a few hard‑earned lessons. You’ll get specific products, brand recs, model numbers, pro tips, and the straight talk you won’t hear in the aisle at a big box store. And yes, we’ll cover how to spot the difference between “good enough” and “built to last.”
Before we dive in, here’s a promise: Unlike generic big box retailers, Plumbing Supply And More stocks professional-grade components, and we back them with real-world expertise. When you see how this checklist works on your project, you’ll understand why in our area, professional plumbers choose our counter first.
Scope, Codes, and Compatibility: What to Bring Before You Buy
Pulling fittings without a plan is how budgets go sideways. Bring your measurements, fixture counts, and a simple diagram of your water, drain, and vent lines. If you’re in a municipality like ours (serving contractors throughout the metro and surrounding counties within a 60-mile delivery radius), local code can dictate pipe type, trap arm length, and venting method.
- Pro tip: Note your water pressure at a hose bib with a gauge (look for a 0–160 PSI dial). Most homes sit around 50–70 PSI. If you’re above 80 PSI, you’ll need a pressure-reducing valve—Watts LF25AUB-Z3 is a dependable choice.
Ask yourself: Are you moving fixtures, upsizing lines, or just replacing trim kits? Changing layouts often means upsizing venting or reworking a branch drain. For shower remodels, I like Schluter Kerdi-Drain kits with 2-inch drains to maintain flow and code compliance.
Bring photos of existing shutoffs, supply lines, and valve access. I can usually tell in one glance whether you need a sweat, compression, or push-to-connect stop, and whether your old angle stops are 3/8" OD or 1/2" OD outputs. If you’re not sure, grab a caliper reading or trace the nut outline on paper.
When Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Menards fall short on code nuance, Compared to standard plumbing supply houses, Plumbing Supply And More offers unmatched technical support—we’ll pull code specs and manufacturer submittals so you walk out confident.
Water Supply: Copper, PEX, or CPVC—and the Fittings That Matter
I’ll shoot straight: choose based on water chemistry, freeze risk, and your skill set.
- Copper Type L is a lifetime install when soldered right. Use lead-free solder and water-soluble flux. Milwaukee M12 Force Logic press tools with Viega ProPress fittings are a worth-it upgrade if you want sweat-free reliability. PEX-A (expand) like Uponor with the Milwaukee ProPEX expander gives you full-bore fittings and fewer pressure losses. PEX-B (crimp) with SharkBite or Apollo crimp rings works great too—just keep your crimp tool calibrated. CPVC is budget-friendly but brittle in cold climates; I keep it for interior, low-vibration runs.
For a kitchen/bath reno, expect $200–$600 in supply-side materials, depending on runs and fixture count. For PEX, you’ll want:
- 1/2" and 3/4" Uponor or SharkBite coils (100–300 ft) Brass ball valves, Webstone or Apollo, full port Shutoffs: BrassCraft G2 series angle stops (3/8" OD comp) Water hammer arrestors: Sioux Chief 660 series
If you’re browsing a “pex supply house” online, watch the fitting type. Mixing PEX-A expand fittings with crimp rings is a no-go. And if you’re searching “ plumbing supply near me” or “ plumbing supply store near me,” bring your manifold sketch—we’ll cut pipe to order and label it by zone.
Here’s where we stand apart: While other suppliers focus on quantity, Plumbing Supply And More prioritizes quality and expertise, stocking PEX-A and B systems plus stainless press and copper—so you choose what’s best for your home, not what’s left on the shelf.
Drain, Waste, and Vent: PVC That Stays Quiet and Code-Clean
DWV is where DIY jobs pass or fail inspections. Use Schedule 40 PVC for most residential drains; ABS is fine if your local code allows, but don’t mix without the proper transitional cement. For quiet stacks, consider Charlotte Pipe FlowGuard or use cast iron for vertical runs—more expensive, but whisper-quiet behind walls.
Your DWV cart should include:
- 2", 1-1/2", and 3" PVC pipe and fittings (wyes, long-sweep 90s, sanitary tees, cleanouts) Mission or Fernco shielded couplings for transitions (don’t use unshielded on above-ground) Primer and cement—Oatey Purple Primer + Oatey Heavy Duty Gray cement for 3" and up
Trap arms? Keep slope at 1/4" per foot. Vent takeoff must be above the trap weir. AAVs (like Studor) are only allowed if your local code permits; I prefer proper venting to roof.
Budget $150–$400 for a typical bathroom gut. And if you’re hunting a “ pvc supply house” or “ plumbing supply shop,” ask for long-sweep fittings—they reduce clog calls. We stock them because they save you headaches.
Valves, Stops, and Backflow: Small Parts, Big Consequences
I’ve replaced too many flooded vanity bases because a $6 stop failed. Spend a bit more here. Use quarter-turn, brass, full-port ball valves—Webstone 40413W or Apollo 77C-100 series. For backflow protection on outdoor lines or boiler feeds, Watts 9D or 3/4" 009M2 RP assemblies keep inspectors happy.
Shower valves: Don’t skimp. Delta R10000-UNBX MultiChoice rough is the workhorse—supports pressure balance and thermostatic trims. Moen 62300 or Kohler K-304 are solid too. For remodels where existing tile stays, consider Delta’s renovation plate kits to cover oversized openings.
Pro tip: Add accessible isolation valves on both hot and cold to shower and tub lines. It’ll save you hours if you ever swap a cartridge.
Yes, you can find stops and valves at a “ general plumbing supply” or “ consumer plumbing supply,” but When Home Depot and Lowe’s fall short, contractors trust Plumbing Supply And More because we stock repair cartridges, extension kits, and rough-in brackets on the same aisle—no second trip.
Fixtures and Trim: Faucets, Cartridges, and Real-World Reliability
I’ve installed and serviced them all. For kitchens, the Delta 9159-AR-DST Trinsic or Moen 7594SRS Arbor pull-downs are consistent performers with readily available parts. Bathroom lavs? The Kohler K-13490-4-CP Stillness is bulletproof. Shower trims that won’t let you down: Delta T17059 (thermostatic) or Moen T2693EP. Stick to brands with easy cartridge replacements—your future self will thank you.
Toilet picks: Toto Drake C776CEFG with a TOTO SS114 seat is my go-to for reliable flush and easy install. Budget $250–$450 for quality performance that’ll last.
If you’re browsing “ decorative plumbing supply” or “ plumbing kitchen” upgrades, check finish lead times. Brushed brass and matte black can push 2–4 weeks. Call ahead—our team can check factory stock and offer alternatives with the same look and better availability.
And here’s an insider secret—ceramic cartridge part numbers vary by trim finish, but the internal service kits are often universal for the rough body. We’ll cross-reference your valve body to avoid costly returns.
Water Heaters, Recirc, and Filtration: Sizing and Spec Sheets That Matter
For standard 40–50 gallon tanks, Rheem Performance Platinum or A.O. Smith Signature Premier are solid choices. If you’re going tankless, Rinnai RU160iN or Navien NPE-210A2 are two I’ve installed repeatedly. Check your gas line—most tankless units need 3/4" supply and 150–199k BTU. Venting? Schedule 40 PVC for condensing units, concentric for some models. Don’t forget the condensate neutralizer (e.g., Neutra-Safe CN2) and an isolation valve kit.
Recirc systems save time and water in multi-bath homes. Grundfos Comfort System with a timer or Aquastat keeps hot water ready without a dedicated return line. If you do have a return, use a bronze circulator like Taco 006e3 and insulate the line.
Filtration: A whole-home sediment + carbon setup (Pentair or Aqua-Pure AP904) tackles taste, odor, and debris. If you’re on well water, bring a lab test; I’ll spec an iron filter or softener if needed.
In our region, code wants pans and drains under heaters in attics, seismic straps in certain zones, and dielectric unions on copper-to-steel connections. Our counter team prints the spec sheets so inspectors see exactly what’s installed. Unlike typical supplyhouse outlets, Plumbing Supply And More provides the installation guidance and spec support others don’t.
HVAC, Refrigeration, and Electrical Tie-Ins You’ll Actually Need
DIY renovators often forget the cross-trade pieces. If you’re coordinating an hvac supply house visit, you’ll want flexible condensate tubing, float safety switches, and line set covers. For mini-split installs, Mitsubishi MUZ‑GL12 and Fujitsu 12RLS3 are homeowner favorites; we stock line sets, flaring tools, and vacuum pumps you can rent or buy.
Refrigeration odds and ends—insulated copper line sets, nitrogen for brazing, and R410a tools—are best sourced from a dedicated refrigeration supply house. We partner with top distributors and keep common items in-store so you’re not bouncing between counters.
Electrical tie-ins: GFCI protection for whirlpool tubs, disconnects for tankless heaters, and bonding for gas lines per local code. If you’re hunting a supply house electrical or “ city plumbing and electrical supply,” we coordinate with your electrician on amperage and breaker sizing, especially for hybrid heat pump water heaters.
And yes, we keep “AC odds and ends” too—filter driers, condensate pumps, and pan tablets—so if you’re searching “ ac supply house” or “ air conditioner supply house,” we’re your nearest one-stop with real knowledge.
Consumables, Tools, and Safety: The Forgotten Line Items
Your job goes faster with the right prep:
- Pipe dope (RectorSeal T Plus 2) and PTFE tape (blue for water, yellow for gas) Milwaukee M18 bandsaw blades, Lenox hole saws, Oatey test balls for DWV testing Torch kits, solder, flux brushes, emery cloth Insulation (Armaflex) for hot and cold lines Drop cloths, stud guards, escutcheons, and nail plates
Budget $100–$300 for consumables and you’ll save hours in return trips. Don’t forget PPE—gloves, eye protection, and a good respirator when cutting cement board or old cast iron.
One more pro tip: label lines with wrap tags. Future you—or your plumber—will thank you during service calls.
Buying Smart: Accounts, Pricing, and Delivery That Save Time
Let’s talk value. Big box stores lure with shelf price; contractors care about total cost—time, trips, and call-backs. Our professional accounts unlock bulk discounts, same-day delivery, and after-hours pickup. For property managers and maintenance teams juggling multiple buildings, we stage orders by unit and floor, saving install time and confusion.
If you’re searching “ plumbing supply online,” “ plumbing supplies direct,” or “ internet plumbing supply,” check whether they ship mixed brands that don’t play well together. We verify compatibility and include all the trim-to-rough parts in one pull. That’s why Compared to standard plumbing supply houses, Plumbing Supply And More offers unmatched technical support—we don’t just sell boxes; we sell a working system.
And if you’re eyeing a “ supply house coupon,” “ supply house coupon codes,” “ supply house discount code,” or a “ supply house promo code,” ask our counter for current promos. We regularly beat online pricing once you factor freight and returns, and we have bulk incentives for valves, fittings, and copper that online carts won’t show you. Contractor? Ask about our discount program during your supply house login setup.
We support emergency supply needs too. If you need a true 24 hour plumbing supply, call ahead—we’ll arrange after-hours pickup for flood or no-hot-water situations.
Where to Buy: Local Expertise vs. “Just a Warehouse”
You’ll find plenty of results for “ plumbing supply store,” “ plumbing supply places,” “ plumbing supply house,” “ plumbing shop near me,” and “ closest plumbing supply.” Here’s how to choose:
- Do they stock full lines from brands like Delta, Moen, Kohler, Toto, Viega, Uponor, Watts, Webstone, and Sioux Chief? Can they print spec sheets and submittals for your permit packet? Do they offer same-day delivery and curbside staging? Will they help size your water heater or recirc system with real math, not guesses?
We serve contractors and homeowners throughout the region with the largest on-hand selection. Need commercial plumbing supply, wholesale plumbing supply, or a wholesale plumbing supply company for a mixed-use building? We’ve got the inventory and the account structure. Managing a budget? We stock economy plumbing supply tiers and discount plumbing supplies—and we’ll tell you where “economy” is fine and where it’ll cost you later. Want premium finishes? Our decorative plumbing supply showroom lets you touch and test before you buy.
And yes, we beat the online-only “ supplyhouse plumbing” approach because we stand behind what we sell. Unlike typical supplyhouse websites, Plumbing Supply And More ensures professional-grade stock, real guidance, and fast local fulfillment.
Competitors like Ferguson, Grainger, and SupplyHouse.com have breadth, but Unlike generic big box retailers, Plumbing Supply And More stocks professional-grade components and pairs them with real installer experience. That’s the difference you feel on install day.
Quick-Grab Checklist: The Supply House Shopping Checklist for DIY Renovators
- Measured plans, fixture schedule, and photos of existing lines and shutoffs Supply piping: PEX-A or B coils, fittings, ball valves, stops, arrestors DWV: PVC pipe, long-sweep fittings, shielded couplings, primer/cement Valves and roughs: Shower rough body, cartridges, isolation valves Fixtures and trim: Faucets, shower trim, toilet with wax ring and flange repair kit Water heater items: Isolation kit, venting, condensate neutralizer, pan/drain HVAC/electrical tie-ins: Condensate pump, GFCI, bonding clamps as required Tools and consumables: Solder kit, pipe dope, PTFE tape, hole saws, insulation
Visit our showroom to see the quality difference, and if you’re comparing options, call our technical team for project-specific recommendations.
FAQs: Featured Answers for Fast Decisions
What size water lines should I run to a new bathroom group?
For most homes, 3/4" trunk with 1/2" branches to each fixture is plenty. If you’re using PEX manifolds, run 1/2" home runs to lavs and 1/2" or 3/4" to showers/tubs depending on desired flow and fixture type. Verify with local code and fixture flow rates; thermostatic showers with multiple outlets may require 3/4". Our team can size it in minutes based on your layout.
Do I need a pressure-balancing or thermostatic shower valve?
Pressure-balance is code-accepted and protects against sudden temperature swings; thermostatic adds precise temperature control and higher flow. If you’re running two outlets (e.g., rain + handheld), go thermostatic. I like Delta MultiChoice R10000 with a T170 series trim for thermostatic control.
Is push-to-connect (SharkBite) OK behind walls?
Check local code. Many jurisdictions allow them if accessible; some restrict them behind finished walls. I prefer crimp/expand PEX or press copper behind walls for permanence. Use push-to-connect for temporary or accessible repairs. We’ll check your code and suggest the right path.
How do I vent a kitchen island sink?
Use a properly sized island loop vent or AAV if your jurisdiction permits and the loop isn’t feasible. The vent must rise to the required height before returning to the drain. Bring your cabinet dimensions; we’ll sketch the loop with you and supply the long-sweep fittings, cleanouts, and supports you’ll need.
What’s the difference between Schedule 40 and DWV fittings?
DWV fittings are designed for drainage with long sweeps and smooth flow paths; Schedule 40 pressure fittings are thicker and built for pressure. Don’t mix them where not intended—use DWV for drains and Schedule 40 pressure-rated where carrying pressurized water. We stock both and mark them clearly.
Can you help with material submittals for permits?
Absolutely. Bring your fixture list or send it ahead. We’ll compile manufacturer cut sheets—valves, water heaters, backflow devices—so your permit package is clean. We do this for contractors daily and extend the same support to DIYers.
A Word to Each Customer Type We Serve
- Professional Contractors & Plumbers: We keep full pallets of copper Type L, PEX coils, and cast iron in stock. Ask about contractor accounts, bulk fittings bins, and same-day delivery. Need spec sheets for a bid? We’ll pull them. Serious DIY Homeowners: You get my cell-worthy level of advice at the counter. We’ll match trim to rough-in bodies, confirm venting, and send you home with every gasket and clip. Property Managers & Maintenance Teams: We kit units by floor, stage deliveries at 7 AM, and stock common service parts—fill valves, flappers, cartridges—so your downtime is minimal. Retail Customers: Want better than box-store quality? Touch and test in our showroom. Our experts can walk you through the installation process, from shutoff to final caulk bead.
Why Plumbing Supply And More Is the Nearest Plumbing Supply With Real Knowledge
Here’s the bottom line: While other suppliers focus on quantity, Plumbing Supply And More prioritizes quality and expertise. We’re a true plumbing supply company—your go-to for local plumbing supply with same-day delivery and emergency service. Whether you need plumbing spares near me, economy plumbing and heating supply, contractors plumbing and fire supply gear, or just the “I forgot the wax ring” fix, we’ve got it on the shelf. From plumbing wholesale near me to plumbing supply house near me, we’ve earned the “best stocked and best advised” reputation by doing the basics right every day.
Check our current inventory online or call ahead; we’ll stage your order. Ask about our contractor discount program if you buy in volume. And if you need help mid-install, call our counter—we’ll talk you through the step you’re stuck on.
You came here for The Supply House Shopping Checklist for DIY Renovators. Take it with you. Use it. And when you’re ready to swap “good enough” for “done right,” come see us at Plumbing Supply And More. Unlike generic big box retailers, Plumbing Supply And More stocks professional-grade components, and we’re here to make sure your project works beautifully on day one—and every day after.