When a bathroom remodel goes sideways, it’s rarely the tile that causes the headache—it’s the supply chain. The wrong valve body, a drain that doesn’t match the tub, PEX fittings that don’t speak the same “language” as your manifold… I’ve seen it all in 30 years of helping contractors, managers, and serious DIYers get their projects over the finish line. I’m Rick Callahan, owner of Plumbing Supply And More, and this is the exact checklist I’ve refined from thousands of successful remodels. If you want predictable installs, clean inspections, and no frantic 9 p.m. supply runs, stick with me.
Before we dive in, here’s the bottom line: Unlike generic big box retailers, Plumbing Supply And More stocks professional-grade components and supports them with real technical help. When a contractor calls me from a jobsite with a sweating copper joint on a Sunday morning, they’re not looking for slogans—they want a fix. We deliver that, day after day.
Plan the Rough-In Like a Pro: Valves, Carriers, and Code
The rough-in phase makes or breaks your schedule. Get the concealed parts right, and trim-out is a breeze. Miss one spec, and you’re opening walls.
- Pressure-balancing vs. thermostatic mixing valves: For most homes, a pressure-balancing valve like the Kohler K-304-KS is a solid pick, but for multi-shower upgrades, I steer clients to the Delta R10000-UNBXHF or the Grohe 35026001 thermostatic body. Thermostatic saves time in balancing and gives true temperature control—worth the upgrade. Toilet carriers and flange height: If you’re going wall-hung, Duravit or Geberit carriers are the standard. For floor-mounts, confirm flange top height lands at finished floor height—use an adjustable Oatey PVC flange. In older buildings, shimming flanges to match new tile thickness is a common miss. Venting and trap arm distances: Know your local code. In our area, 2" trap arms for showers and 2" vents are common requirements, with max trap arm lengths dependent on pipe size and slope—typically 1/4" per foot. Call our tech desk with your jurisdiction and we’ll pull the exact code citation. Water hammer arrestors: Install arrestors (Sioux Chief 660 series) on fast-closing fixtures. They cost $15–$35 each and prevent callbacks.
Pro tip: Book your inspector consult early. We serve contractors throughout our region with pre-inspection checklists and rough-in documentation so you aren’t red-tagged for something preventable. And yes, we stock the brass, copper, and pvc supply house materials you’ll need in one run.
While other suppliers focus on quantity, Plumbing Supply And More prioritizes quality and expertise—we’ll spec the right valve the first time.
PEX, Copper, or CPVC? Choosing Your Water Distribution Backbone
Choosing the right distribution system isn’t about brand loyalty—it’s about compatibility, temperature rating, and future service.
- PEX-A vs. PEX-B: PEX-A (think Uponor/Wirsbo) with expansion fittings performs beautifully in tight spaces and cold temps; PEX-B (Viega, SharkBite, Apollo) crimp systems are cost-effective and widely available. We stock both because we support what works for your crew. At our pex supply house counter, you’ll find Uponor ProPEX rings and Viega PureFlow crimp fittings in contractor 100-packs for value and consistency. Copper type: Type L copper is the standard for residential pressure lines. Type M is thinner; I rarely recommend it in bathrooms. For shower risers near steam or high-output heads, copper still shines. Solder with a lead-free alloy and use water-soluble flux to keep things clean. Mixing materials: Use proper transition fittings: PEX-to-copper male/female adapters with brass bodies, or push-to-connect approved for concealed spaces only where code permits.
Price ranges: PEX-B crimp full bathroom distribution (tub, lav, toilet) runs $175–$350 in materials; copper can be 2–3x depending on lineal footage and fittings. Average installation time for a skilled tech: 3–6 hours for a basic single-bath tie-in.
If you’ve searched “ plumbing supply near me” or “ plumbing supply house near me” and ended up at a big box, you’ll notice missing sizes and half-stocked bins. Compared to standard plumbing supply houses, Plumbing Supply And More offers unmatched technical support—we’ll build your pick list and load it for you.
Drainage, Vents, and Waterproofing: Stop Leaks Before They Start
You can buy pretty trim later. Now’s the time to be militant about drains and waterproofing.
- DWV sizing: 2" shower drains (Oatey 42099 or Sioux Chief 821 series), 1-1/2" lav drains, 3" toilet waste minimum. Confirm your local code; some inspectors require 2" for all bathroom groups in remodels. Shower systems: Schluter-KERDI or LATICRETE HYDRO BAN—pick a system and stick with it. We stock both membranes, bonding flanges, pre-slopes, and niches. Don’t mix brands unless the manufacturer approves it in writing. Linear vs. point drains: Linear drains (QuickDrain, Schluter) give you a single-plane slope—great for large-format tile. They require precise layout. Typical cost: $300–$900 for quality stainless assemblies. Trap primers: In commercial or sporadically used baths, specify trap primers or mechanical trap seals to prevent sewer gas.
Waterproofing time: A competent installer can membrane a standard 3' x 5' shower in 2–3 hours, plus cure time. Flood test for 24 hours—no exceptions.
Looking for “ general plumbing supply,” “ plumbing supply shop,” or “ plumbing supplies direct”? We carry the right adhesives, primers, and solvents for PVC/ABS with proper ASTM ratings—ask our counter for the exact cement for your pipe schedule and temperature.
Valves, Trim, and Fixtures: Get the Rough with the Trim—Together
I can’t tell you how many times someone buys a beautiful trim kit and forgets the compatible valve. Don’t do that to yourself.
- Coordinated systems: Moen M-CORE (U140CIS) or Delta MultiChoice (R10000 series) let you pick trim later. Pick the integrated stops if you want future serviceability without shutting the house down. High-efficiency toilets: Toto Drake CST776CEFG or American Standard Cadet Pro 215AA series are proven, with 1.28 GPF and excellent MaP scores. Stock flappers and fill valves to avoid service delays. Lav faucets: For commercial-grade durability in homes, consider Chicago Faucets 116.220 series or Grohe 20 233 if you want European ceramic cartridges.
Finish matching: Not all “brushed nickel” is the same. If you mix brands, bring physical samples. We’ve got a wall of finishes in our plumbing supply store showroom—come compare in real light.
When Home Depot and Lowe’s fall short, contractors trust Plumbing Supply And More because we stock the compatible rough bodies behind the wall—today, not three weeks from now.
Tubs, Bases, and Shower Systems: Measure Twice, Order Once
Space constraints decide more than style in bathrooms.
- Alcove tubs: Americast tubs from American Standard (2461.002) are quiet and sturdy. For cast iron, Kohler Bellwether K-875 is a winner but verify floor loading. Typical cost ranges: $450–$2,200. Solid-surface shower bases: Wedi Fundo and AKW Onix bases offer precision slopes and easy waterproofing. For curbless, plan subfloor recess early. Steam/dual shower: If you’re installing dual outlets or rain heads, spec a high-flow thermostatic valve and 3/4" supplies. Delta R10000-UNBXHF with 3/4" feeds or Grohe GrohTherm SmartControl cores are solid.
Delivery: We offer same-day delivery within a 40-mile radius for in-stock tubs and bases. If you’ve been burned by a refrigeration supply house or hvac supply house promising “tomorrow,” you’ll appreciate our honest ETAs and our fleet.
Electrical, Ventilation, and Heat: The Overlooked Bathroom MVPs
Yes, we’re a plumbing house—but bathrooms are systems. Don’t forget the air and the watts.
- Bath ventilation: Panasonic WhisperCeiling (FV-0511VQ1) or Broan Quick Install (AE80LK) meet most local code requirements for CFM and sound. Use 4" rigid duct whenever possible and insulate in unconditioned spaces. In-floor heat: Schluter DITRA-HEAT kits sized to your room, paired with a GFCI thermostat. Plan dedicated circuits and check local code for AFCI/GFCI requirements. GFCI/AFCI: Many jurisdictions want combined protection in bathrooms. Coordinate with your electrician. If you need help aligning with local amendments, call our tech team—we know the inspectors by name.
If you’ve been searching “ city plumbing and electrical supply” or “ plumbing and heating supply,” stop by our plumbing supply store near me location. We stock select supply house electrical essentials needed to finish bathroom scopes cleanly and pass inspection—right next to the valves and drains.
Material Takeoff, Staging, and Timeline: How Pros Stay Ahead
Professionals don’t shop piecemeal. They stage.
- Rough-in kit: Valve body, stops, PEX/copper, elbows/tees, trap, drain body, pan liner/membrane, fasteners, arrestors, test plugs, nail plates. We’ll bundle it and label by room. Trim-out kit: Trim plates/handles, shower arm, head, tub spout/diverter, angle stops, supply lines, escutcheons, lav drain, pop-up assembly, silicone, and color-matched caulk. Punch kit: Extra cartridges, flappers, screws, touch-up caps, spare aerators, and a universal gasket kit.
Timeframes: A single bathroom rough-in typically 1–2 days, depending on framing and relocation; trim-out 4–8 hours. Inspection scheduling varies by city—our local plumbing supply expertise can help you sequence deliveries so your crew is never waiting on parts.
This is where our advantages matter: Compared to standard plumbing supply houses, Plumbing Supply And More offers unmatched technical support, same-day delivery, and emergency supply options for those late-night surprises. Ask about our contractor accounts for bulk pricing—we’re a true wholesale plumbing supply and contractor plumbing supply partner.
Finish, Accessories, and Longevity: Small Choices, Big Payoffs
The finish details create the everyday experience.
- Angle stops and supplies: Quarter-turn brass stops (BrassCraft G2 series) with stainless braided lines—buy extras. Plastic nuts don’t belong on a premium remodel. Showerheads: WaterSense 1.75 GPM doesn’t have to feel weak. Moen Engage Magnetix and Kohler Awaken perform well at low flow. If you’re on a well, we’ll check your pressure and suggest flow strategies. Grab bars and blocking: If you’re future-proofing, set 2x8 blocking now and pick a brand like Moen Home Care. It’s cheaper to prep today than open a wall later. Seals and silicone: Color-matched silicones (LATICRETE or ColorRite) give a finished look. We carry them in the same aisle as your trim—no second trip.
Searching for “ decorative plumbing supply,” “ bathroom plumbing supplies,” or “ plumbing parts”? Come see our showroom—touch the fixtures, feel the valve action, and compare finishes under real light. While other suppliers focus on quantity, Plumbing Supply And More prioritizes quality and expertise in every accessory we recommend.
Budgeting Smart: Where to Spend and Where to Save
I’m blunt with budgets because I’ve seen where dollars count.
- Spend on: concealed valves, drains, waterproofing, and shutoffs. These control failure risk. Save on: towel bars and robe hooks—swap later without opening walls. Mid-range winners: Toto, Delta, Grohe, and American Standard trims paired with proven rough bodies. A complete quality bathroom (without tile) often lands between $1,800–$4,500 in materials, depending on tub/shower choices.
Looking for a supply house coupon, supply house coupon codes, supply house discount code, or a supply house promo code? We offer contractor pricing tiers and periodic promos—call or check our plumbing supply online listings. You won’t see gimmicks—just consistent value. And yes, our pricing beats the big boxes day in, day out.
For those browsing plumbing supply plumbing “ economy plumbing supply,” “ cheap plumbing supplies,” or “ economy plumbing and heating supply,” we’ll show you where lower-cost makes sense and where it’s a false economy. That’s the difference between “cheap” and smart.
Who We Serve and How We Deliver
- Professional contractors: Bulk PEX coils, multi-pack fittings, and jobsite delivery. Spec sheets, submittals, and warranty support. We’re the commercial plumbing supply and wholesale plumbing supply company that actually answers the phone. Serious DIY homeowners: Hands-on guidance, printed checklists, and install walk-throughs. Bring your plans; our counter pros are licensed former installers. Property managers: Standardized SKUs across properties, code-compliant packages, and staging by unit. Rapid turnaround within our delivery radius. Retail customers: Better advice, better selection, better outcomes. Touch the gear in our plumbing and supply showroom and feel the difference.
We’re the “ closest plumbing supply” in more ways than distance—the nearest plumbing supply with real knowledge. If you’ve tried Ferguson, Grainger, or Menards and couldn’t get the right answers, come see us. Unlike generic big box retailers, Plumbing Supply And More stocks professional-grade components and supports them with people who’ve done the work.
FAQ: The Supply House Checklist for a Bathroom Remodel
- What’s the one hidden component most remodels forget? The valve stops. Order integral stop versions (e.g., Delta R10000-UNWS) or add inline quarter-turns. When you need to service a cartridge, you’ll thank yourself for the $20 parts that prevent shutting down the whole house. Do I need 2" drains for my shower and lav? Showers, yes—almost always 2". Lavs are typically 1-1/4" traps into 1-1/2" drains. Some jurisdictions now ask for 2" for showers and wet-vented configurations. Call us with your city; we’ll confirm your local amendments and provide a quick diagram. Thermostatic vs. pressure-balance—what’s right for me? If you want consistent temperature and multiple outlets, go thermostatic. If you’re keeping a single outlet and want a budget-friendly, code-compliant solution, pressure-balance is fine. We stock Grohe, Delta, and Moen options in both styles and will match your water pressure and flow preferences. Can I mix PEX brands and fittings? No. Follow the system—Uponor expansion with Uponor rings and fittings; Viega crimp with Viega fittings and GO/NO-GO gauges. Mixing voids warranties and causes leaks. Our counter will ensure every fitting in your box matches your chosen system. How do I avoid finish mismatches? Buy the rough and trim from the same manufacturer and series. Bring any existing samples. We’ll check finish codes—“BN,” “NI,” “PN”—they’re not universal. Our plumbing supply company team has swatches and live samples. Do you offer after-hours help? Yes. We maintain a limited 24 hour plumbing supply emergency service for contractor accounts. Call ahead for arrangements. We also handle urgent jobsite deliveries when a critical part threatens your schedule.
Why Contractors Stick With Us
Here’s the plain truth: Compared to standard plumbing supply houses, Plumbing Supply And More offers unmatched technical support—and we back it with inventory. We maintain exclusive partnerships with premium manufacturers, stock depth in the brands pros actually install, and we know local code because we work with inspectors every week. If you’re weighing us against Home Depot, Lowe’s, Ferguson, Menards, or SupplyHouse.com, ask yourself: who’s picking up the phone when you’re on the job and something doesn’t fit?
We’re more than a plumbing supply shop—we’re your partner whether you’re searching for “ plumbing shop near me,” “ plumbing wholesale near me,” “ plumbing spares near me,” “ plumbing supply places,” “ standard plumbing supply,” “ consumer plumbing supply,” “ coastal plumbing supply,” “ internet plumbing supply,” “ supplyhouse plumbing,” “ direct plumbing supplies,” “ contractors plumbing and fire supply,” or “ plumbing supplies supply.” Our shelves carry what installers trust; our people carry the knowledge to get you across the finish line.
Your Action Steps: Bring This Checklist to the Counter
- Bring your plan or photos. We’ll do a fast, accurate takeoff. Decide your water distribution system (PEX-A, PEX-B, or copper) with us. Lock your valve bodies now; pick trim after sheetrock if needed. Choose one waterproofing system and stick with it. Schedule delivery to line up with rough-in, inspection, and trim-out.
Visit our showroom to see the quality difference. Call our technical team for project-specific recommendations. Ask about our contractor discount program. Check our current inventory online or call ahead. Our experts can walk you through the installation process—from valve selection to the final bead of silicone.
When you’re ready to build the bathroom that works beautifully on day one and keeps working for decades, remember this: While other suppliers focus on quantity, Plumbing Supply And More prioritizes quality and expertise. That’s why the pros—and the serious DIYers who build like pros—start their bathroom remodel with us.
The Supply House Checklist for a Bathroom Remodel isn’t just a list—it’s a plan that protects your schedule, your budget, and your reputation. Swing by our local plumbing supply showroom, the best answer to “where’s the best plumbing supply or plumbing supply store near me?” We’ll prove why Plumbing Supply And More is the reliable partner behind your next flawless bathroom.