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Exclusive content for plumbing in the bath and kitchen industry that helps professionals understand market conditions, trending designs, installation tips, plumbing fixture codes, standards, and more.

]]> https://www.pmmag.com/rss/2655 en-us Impact of affordability challenges and demographic shifts on housing trends in 2026 Housing affordability has declined significantly in recent years. The deterioration in price-to-income ratio has been a key factor, as home prices have risen 53% since 2019, while median household income has risen only 24%. This has notably decreased the share of first-time home buyers in the market, which dropped to 21% in 2025 from 44% in 1981. Over that same time frame, the median age for first-time buyers reached a record high of 40 in 2025 from 29 in 1981. 

]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/107232 Mon, 23 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/107232-impact-of-affordability-challenges-and-demographic-shifts-on-housing-trends-in-2026 Case study: Solving for shower safety and layout flexibility On complex healthcare projects, where schedules are tight and teams are balancing multiple design and compliance requirements, drainage will often receive less early attention. However, in patient environments, it’s a critical component that directly affects safety, accessibility, and maintenance.

]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/107027 Thu, 04 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0500 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/107027-case-study-solving-for-shower-safety-and-layout-flexibility eBook | Fifth annual Bath & Kitchen Pro In the Fifth edition of the Bath & Kitchen Pro eBook you’ll find both residential and commercial product and design trends, showroom display trends, economic indicators and more!

]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/106629 Wed, 25 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/106629-ebook-fifth-annual-bath-and-kitchen-pro Plumbing & Mechanical 2025 Rep of the Year: Harry Warren, Inc. baylesk@bnpmedia.com (Kristen R. Bayles) Celebrating over 50 years of service, Harry Warren, Inc. has been named Plumbing & Mechanical’s 2025 Rep of the Year. Over the years, this family-run agency has grown from a one-man operation into a leading manufacturers’ rep by staying true to its core values: integrity, service and people-first leadership.


]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/106583 Thu, 05 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/106583-plumbing-and-mechanical-2025-rep-of-the-year-harry-warren-inc KBIS 2025 slated to be largest show in history forstern@bnpmedia.com (Natalie Forster) The Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) will be held at the Las Vegas Convention Center from February 25-27, featuring over 670 exhibitors and showcasing innovative, sustainable products. KBIS 2025 is slated to be the largest show in history.

]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/106333 Mon, 10 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/106333-kbis-2025-slated-to-be-largest-show-in-history Kohler’s Arizona manufacturing facility receives award from U.S. Department of Energy for decarbonization project Selected as one of 33 projects in the U.S., the funding will be matched by Kohler investment to support the Electric Boiler & Microgrid project at its manufacturing site in Casa Grande, Arizona.

]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/106160 Thu, 07 Nov 2024 12:00:00 -0500 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/106160-kohlers-arizona-manufacturing-facility-receives-award-from-us-department-of-energy-for-decarbonization-project Chicago Faucet Co. names new Milwaukee Training Center after former president and CEO Andreas Nowak dedicated 19 years of service to both Geberit and the Chicago Faucet Co., leaving a lasting impact through his visionary leadership.

]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/105984 Thu, 26 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/105984-chicago-faucet-co-names-new-milwaukee-training-center-after-former-president-and-ceo How innovation and sustainability are redefining plumbing solutions for tomorrow’s homes Water scarcity and quality are widespread issues in the US. Embracing sustainability is crucial to the evolution of plumbing, with tried-and-true fixtures and new advances making a healthier, more water-efficient reality possible.

]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/105937 Mon, 23 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/105937-how-innovation-and-sustainability-are-redefining-plumbing-solutions-for-tomorrows-homes Bradley sponsors ‘The Germ Chasers’ Hygiene Education Program for schools Hands-on training supported over 2,200 students in The Philippines, Mexico and Thailand.

]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/105899 Wed, 11 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/105899-bradley-sponsors-the-germ-chasers-hygiene-education-program-for-schools eBook | Bath & Kitchen Pro In the fourth edition of the Bath & Kitchen Pro eBook you’ll find both residential and commercial product and design trends, showroom display trends, economic indicators and more!

]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/105623 Fri, 26 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/105623-ebook-bath-and-kitchen-pro Above-floor plumbing simplifies garage conversion to an in-law suite Joseph Cariola, a licensed plumber and operations manager at Feddon Mechanical, converted his garage into an in-law suite with a bedroom and bathroom to accommodate up to three people.

]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/105456 Mon, 22 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/105456-above-floor-plumbing-simplifies-garage-conversion-to-an-in-law-suite Video: 2024 Kitchen & Bath Trends Live from KBIS The Kitchen & Bath Industry Show marked the most successful show in its 60-year history this past February. Watch a few of the exhibitors talk about their product.


]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/105398 Mon, 18 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/105398-video-2024-kitchen-and-bath-trends-live-from-kbis Franchises offer expansion opportunities for plumbing contractors A thriving plumbing business relies on a collaborative team spanning various functions. Facing challenges like labor shortages and limited resources, many contractors struggle to expand into new markets. Adding a franchise can accelerate growth, minimize risk, and unlock fresh opportunities by leveraging established systems and resources.

]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/105395 Mon, 18 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/105395-franchises-offer-expansion-opportunities-for-plumbing-contractors Kitchen & Bath Industry Show returns to Las Vegas forstern@bnpmedia.com (Natalie Forster) The Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) returned to Las Vegas in 2023.  Hoping to break records again, KBIS/IBS returns to the Las Vegas Convention Center this year. Explore the latest products, technologies, and trends in kitchen and bath design.

]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/105316 Mon, 05 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0500 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/105316-kitchen-and-bath-industry-show-returns-to-las-vegas The home improvement market is rising dyates@consultyates.com (Dave Yates) Luxury bathrooms and kitchens have evolved, and the home improvement market is booming with IT-connected products. People want to control their heating, kitchen appliances, and plumbing products through apps.


]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/105315 Fri, 02 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0500 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/105315-the-home-improvement-market-is-rising Exploring the impact of multigenerational living on bathroom design Multiple generations living together under one roof, has challenged traditional ideas about space utilization and functionality.

]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/105160 Mon, 23 Oct 2023 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/105160-exploring-the-impact-of-multigenerational-living-on-bathroom-design 01 PM 1023 Feature Duravit DNeo BoHo Designed with longevity top-of-mind, Duravit’s array of flexible bathroom solutions accommodate changing lifestyles to support individual wellbeing. These designs boast timeless style without sacrificing functionality in terms of comfort, safety, hygiene and accessibility. All photos courtesy of DURAVIT. 02 PM 1023 Feature Duravit BoHo Pop 4 Wheelchair-friendly and ADA-compatible, Duravit’s D-Neo Wall Mounted Sink combines functionality and sleek aesthetics. All photos courtesy of DURAVIT. Upgrading old school restrooms As part of the American Rescue Plan, educational funding can provide over $274 billion in support for schools — the largest investment ever in the history of primary and secondary education.

]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/105124 Wed, 27 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/105124-upgrading-old-school-restrooms A plumber’s guide to residential floor drain selection and installation Eight important factors to consider when selecting and installing a residential floor drain.

]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/105037 Mon, 14 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/105037-a-plumbers-guide-to-residential-floor-drain-selection-and-installation 01 PM 0823 Residential Plumbing Drains Courtesy of imaginima/E+/Getty Images and PC Photography/iStock/Getty Images Plus 02 PM 0823 Residential Plumbing Drains Selecting the appropriate drain and following drain installation best practices can make all the difference in a system’s overall performance. Courtesy of imaginima/E+/Getty Images and PC Photography/iStock/Getty Images Plus Duravit builds the world's first climate-neutral ceramic plant in Canada The decision to build the first CO2-neutral ceramic production facility in Canada is a significant investment for a sustainable future for the global brand and a vital step for climate neutrality by 2045.

]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/105009 Fri, 28 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/105009-duravit-builds-the-worlds-first-climate-neutral-ceramic-plant-in-canada Duravit-1.gif Duravit-2.gif Third Annual Bath & Kitchen Pro eBook In the third edition of the Bath & Kitchen Pro eBook you’ll find both residential and commercial product and design trends, showroom display trends, economic indicators and more!

]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/104964 Tue, 27 Jun 2023 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/104964-third-annual-bath-and-kitchen-pro-ebook Ride the wave! Bidets address wellness needs for popular trends In the United States, bidet sales have grown steadily at a year-over-year rate of 14% to 15%. According to Stephanie Ewing, director, Wholesale North America for Bemis Manufacturing Co., specifying bidets is “becoming a market need driven by market demand. The pandemic started the trend of increased consumer awareness that a solution other than toilet paper was available, as well as an increased focus on hygiene.”

]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/104957 Mon, 26 Jun 2023 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/104957-ride-the-wave-bidets-address-wellness-needs-for-popular-trends Watts debuts new training center in Fort Worth, Texas Watts Water Technologies held a ribbon-cutting ceremony in April to celebrate the grand opening of its latest training center in Fort Worth, Texas. The new 250,000-square-foot facility is customized for training, administration and manufacturing, and joins five other Watts Works Learning Centers across North America.

]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/104955 Wed, 21 Jun 2023 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/104955-watts-debuts-new-training-center-in-fort-worth-texas PM Profile: Canadian company brings first-ever recirculating shower to U.S. market forstern@bnpmedia.com (Natalie Forster) RainStick Shower co-founders Alisha McFetridge and Sean McFetridge share a longtime passion for water conservation. In 2019, the two began building the North American Market’s first water circulating shower. Supply House Times Chief Editor Natalie Forster sat down with Alisha McFetridge to dive into RainStick Shower’s backstory and plans for the future.

]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/104922 Fri, 26 May 2023 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/104922-pm-profile-canadian-company-brings-first-ever-recirculating-shower-to-us-market Linear shower drain systems help deliver project on schedule The new Market District Apartments in Ohio City will be located near the historic West Side Market, the oldest operating indoor/outdoor market space in Cleveland. Currently, the 13-story development is the largest sustainable, wood-constructed building in the country. Among other facilities, the new 385-unit structure encompasses a first-floor retail space, residential suites on floors two through seven and luxury penthouse suites on the ninth floor, as well as amenity space, including a large rental hall.

]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/104918 Mon, 22 May 2023 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/104918-linear-shower-drain-systems-help-deliver-project-on-schedule Bathroom trends: Technology and advances in barrier-free design support safer living How is the aging population changing product design? Builders and designers have been hearing from clients that homeowners now want to age-in-place, and they also want to renovate their existing homes to accommodate various generations living under one roof. The lack of housing stock and current mortgage and interest rates have contributed to this phenomenon. This shift in living has been a boon to the renovation industry, and it has given rise to innovations and building processes that elegantly combine technology and health benefits in the service of independence for elderly or anyone with physical challenges.

]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/104851 Mon, 24 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/104851-bathroom-trends-technology-and-advances-in-barrier-free-design-support-safer-living voice-activated products Lead photos courtesy of U. J. Alexander / iStock / Getty Images Plus and sbossert / iStock / Getty Images Plus. voice-activated products There have been major advances in bathroom products, with voice-activated products giving homeowners control in a way they did not have previously. PM Profile: LIXIL's Trey Northrup Late last year, LIXIL made headlines when it announced the acquisition of Basco, a U.S.-based shower door manufacturing company.

]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/104811 Thu, 23 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/104811-pm-profile-lixils-trey-northrup Master plumber relies on extension kits to correct toilet-flange elevation Have you remodeled a bathroom recently? If so, maybe you’ve noticed problems with the toilet.
To get more specific: Is it rocking noisily when the homeowner takes a seat? Or maybe they've noticed water pooling at the base. Perhaps the flooring surrounding the toilet feels soft. Or water spots have appeared on the ceiling located directly below the toilet.

]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/104747 Tue, 14 Feb 2023 00:00:00 -0500 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/104747-master-plumber-relies-on-extension-kits-to-correct-toilet-flange-elevation A toilet flange A toilet flange to be installed flush with or atop the finished floor. Placing it beneath a tile floor will cause drainage issues — especially leaks. Toilet flange extension kits A toilet flange to be installed flush with or atop the finished floor. Placing it beneath a tile floor will cause drainage issues — especially leaks. Amid inflation, evaluate boiler performance for saving money As businesses and homeowners across the nation wrestle with inflation and stretching their dollars for maximum value, one area that can’t be overlooked is the heating system.

]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/104722 Thu, 02 Feb 2023 00:00:00 -0500 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/104722-amid-inflation-evaluate-boiler-performance-for-saving-money Rise in outdoor living spaces brings opportunity for plumbing pros Many people look for ways to update their homes to provide a sense of comfort and connection to the outdoors. Outdoor projects are currently flourishing, as people extend their living spaces to feel closer to their natural surroundings.

]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/104691 Thu, 19 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0500 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/104691-rise-in-outdoor-living-spaces-brings-opportunity-for-plumbing-pros Commercial plumbing prioritizes accessibility and inclusivity forstern@bnpmedia.com (Natalie Forster) Over the past decade, society has been evolving. It is constantly rethinking discrimination, with growing social awareness of gender identity, differently-abled individuals and sensory sensitivity. The public restroom is one area that has come under fire during this social evolution.

]]> http://www.pmmag.com/articles/104690 Tue, 17 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0500 https://www.pmmag.com/articles/104690-commercial-plumbing-prioritizes-accessibility-and-inclusivity Commercial plumbing When single-occupancy restrooms are not feasible, designers can incorporate privacy measures via ambient noise, floor-to-ceiling doors, and amenities within individual stalls. Photo courtesy of Sloan. Commercial plumbing With privacy being a key user preference in bathrooms, new toilet partition models like Bradley’s new Euro Style Restroom Partitions eliminate unpleasant gaps between doors and pilasters for complete privacy. Photo courtesy of Bradley Corp