Oatey Co.

A veteran of the chemical and plastics industries, Carlson will lead Oatey’s U.S. manufacturing and distribution operations, driving operational excellence, strategic growth, and productivity across all company locations

Oatey Co., a leading manufacturer in the plumbing industry since 1916, announced today that Ron Carlson has joined the organization as Senior Vice President, U.S. Operations.

With 30 years of experience as an operations leader and a proven track record in the chemical and plastics industries, Carlson joins Oatey from Novagard, where he served as Vice President of Operations. In this role, he successfully enhanced the organization’s safety culture, reduced overall injuries, drove a transformation from conventional to lean manufacturing, and established a strategic manufacturing partnership in India to strengthen global operations. His extensive background includes leadership roles at GEON Performance Solutions and PolyOne, as well as serving as a multi-site Plant Manager at Avery Dennison, demonstrating expertise in operations leadership, lean methodologies and global manufacturing management.

In his new role at Oatey, Carlson will lead Oatey U.S. manufacturing and distribution operations to drive operational excellence, strategic growth and productivity across company sites, leveraging lean methodologies to continuously improve operational efficiency, and support Oatey’s commitment to safety.

“I’m proud to join Oatey, where a tradition of excellence and cutting-edge innovation go hand in hand,” says Carlson. “I’m committed to optimizing our operational capabilities and look forward to partnering with our talented teams to refine processes, enhance efficiency, and continue delivering the highest quality products to our customers.”

“Ron is an exceptional leader whose career is marked by his ability to drive efficiency and improve quality,” says Scott Voisinet, Oatey’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. “His forward-thinking approach and deep industry expertise will be pivotal in advancing our U.S. operations to new levels of performance and long-term growth.”

Carlson, a resident of Painesville, Ohio, holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and a master’s degree in Business Administration, both from Cleveland State University.

The manufacturer added 9 new Ambassadors and 2 All-Star Ambassadors to its award-winning social media program, which continues to expand its impact

Oatey Co., a leading manufacturer in the plumbing industry since 1916, recently announced that its 2025 social media Ambassador Program will include nine newly added plumbing influencers and four returning Ambassadors. In addition, the company designated two of its tenured Ambassadors as prestigious All-Star Ambassadors.

The 2025 class of new Oatey Ambassadors includes Clayton Deeds, Leon Garrett, Mike Caruso, Alan Carlson, Mary-Anne Bowcott, Brian Joyce, Jose Lopez, Keith McGillivary and Zachary Edmond, collectively representing a diverse range of plumbing and building expertise from across North America. The new Ambassadors join returning Oatey Ambassadors Tucker Baney, Nick Hotujec, David Williams, Rob Lupton, Schuyler Mooney and Grant Blundell, as well as several influential alumni Ambassadors.

Oatey Ambassadors are passionate advocates who showcase Oatey and its family of brands through engaging, authentic social media content and activity. Acting as an extension of the Oatey team, Ambassadors collaborate on various initiatives such as social media campaigns, giveaways, trade shows, podcasts, and more to share the story behind Oatey products.

Each year, Ambassadors are invited to attend a two-day event at Oatey University, the company’s premier training center. This immersive experience, known as Ambassador Fest, offers hands-on training, in-depth product discussions, a tour of Oatey’s manufacturing operations, and a visit to Oatey’s world headquarters to meet with associates.

Oatey’s newly designated All-Star Ambassadors include Evan Berns and Shay Lorette, who join existing All-Stars Danielle Browne, Thomas Young, Robert Broccolo and Germaine Nelson. Each of these Ambassadors has been part of the Oatey Ambassador Program for at least two years, displaying an impressive passion for Oatey and a commitment to the Ambassador Program and the plumbing community at large. As All-Star Ambassadors, the influencers remain in the Ambassador Program beyond its standard two-year duration, continuing to enjoy program perks in addition to enhanced partnership opportunities with Oatey.

Over the past year, Oatey has expanded its commitment to supporting Ambassadors in their home territories. This includes an “Oatey on the Road” social media series that spotlights Ambassadors on the job and Oatey swag giveaways for Ambassadors to gift to their local supply houses. The company plans to further expand these initiatives in 2025 as part of its efforts to support Ambassadors online and offline as they grow their businesses and brands.

“Oatey is proud to collaborate with such an incredible group of skilled plumbing professionals through our Ambassador Program,” said Katherine Lehtinen, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Oatey. “As the program continues to evolve, we are sincerely thankful for the dedication and enthusiasm of our Ambassadors. Their passion for Oatey and the work they do inspires us every day. We remain committed to championing their talents, supporting their growth in the industry, and amplifying their voices across the platforms where they publish.”

Individuals interested in becoming a future Oatey Ambassador can submit their information on the Oatey website for consideration. For additional information about Oatey’s Ambassador Program, visit oatey.com.

New products include Sliding Wall Bracket Stub-Out Kits, Self-Closing Pipe Clamps, Light Angled Wall Bracket Kits, and Strut and Combo Pipe Clamps — all engineered to make plumbing installations faster, safer, and more efficient.

Oatey Co., a leading manufacturer in the plumbing industry, has expanded its pipe support product line with the introduction of additional in-wall bracketing systems, pipe clamps, and accessories. Designed to meet the evolving needs of professional plumbers, these innovative solutions simplify installations, improve efficiency, and enhance job site flexibility.

Oatey’s latest pipe support offerings include ready-to-install kits with pre-assembled components, delivering fewer parts than competitors for reduced complexity and handling on the job site. These products support PEX, copper, and CPVC pipes, providing durability and versatility for residential and light commercial plumbing applications. Among the most innovative products in the line are:

• Sliding Wall Bracket Stub-Out Kits are designed to provide unmatched flexibility and ease of installation. Featuring an extendable bracket, the kits adjust effortlessly to accommodate various stud widths without the need for measuring or cutting. With a simple thumb-screw adjustment, stub-outs slide into position quickly, eliminating the need for additional tools and reducing installation time. For PEX applications, the kits include a unique bend support that securely snaps the pipe into place, ensuring a struggle-free experience without kinking. Pre-assembled components further simplify the process, saving time and reducing complexity on the job site.
• Self-Closing Pipe Clamps offer a streamlined solution for securing pipes quickly and reliably. Their push-to-install mechanism allows pipes to be easily secured by simply pushing them into the clamp, reducing installation effort. The clamps feature an interlocking design that combines with the dual wall bracket accessory to enable the precise spacing of hot and cold water lines for multiple-pipe installations. Designed for versatility, they are compatible with wood or metal studs, sliding wall brackets, and struts. Additionally, these clamps meet ASTM E-84 plenum rating standards, delivering reliable performance for a wide range of applications.

In addition to the Sliding Wall Bracket Stub-Out Kits and Self-Closing Pipe Clamps, the expanded lineup includes Light Angled Wall Bracket Kits, Cushion and Strut Pipe Clamps, Combo Pipe Clamps, and a variety of adaptors and stub-out clamps for PEX, CPVC and copper pipes. These solutions offer unmatched flexibility, durability and ease of installation for any job site.

“At Oatey, we are committed to delivering solutions that make plumbing installations faster, safer, and more efficient,” said Wyatt Kilmartin, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Oatey. “Our new pipe support solutions make the job simpler for pros, helping them save time and enabling consistent, high-quality results.”

For more information, visit Oatey.com.

By Sean Comerford

Silicone sealant is an essential tool for plumbers and contractors alike. Known for its flexibility, durability, and water resistance, it proves invaluable across a broad spectrum of plumbing applications, effectively sealing everything from air to water. This article delves into advanced techniques and best practices for using silicone sealant and offers unconventional uses for plumbing situations.

Advanced Techniques for Using Silicone Sealant

Proper Application Methods: The effectiveness of silicone sealant largely depends on how well it is applied. Ensure the application area is clean, dry, and debris-free. Use a caulking gun to apply a continuous bead of sealant, maintaining steady pressure to avoid air bubbles. Smooth the bead with a caulking tool or your finger dipped in soapy water to achieve a clean finish.

Accurate Sealing in Difficult Areas: Sealing tight or awkward spaces can be tricky. Utilize specialized tools like angled nozzles and flexible extension tubes to reach narrow gaps and corners. When dealing with vertical surfaces, apply the sealant from the bottom up to prevent sagging.

Enhanced Bonding to Various Materials: Silicone sealant is highly effective in bonding various materials, including glass, metal, and plastic. For optimal adhesion, choose a sealant compatible with the specific materials you are working with. Apply a primer if recommended by the manufacturer to enhance bonding strength, especially on non-porous surfaces.

Leveraging Tools for Maximum Performance: Leverage tools such as caulking guns with adjustable pressure settings, smoothing spatulas, and silicone finishing kits to refine your application. These tools improve the quality of your work and increase efficiency, allowing for faster completion times.

Best Practices for Silicone Sealant Application

Surface Preparation: Proper surface preparation is crucial for a successful seal. Clean the area thoroughly with a degreaser or alcohol-based cleaner to remove any oils or residues. Use a wire brush or sandpaper to roughen smooth surfaces, ensuring better grip for the sealant.

Choosing the Right Type of Silicone Sealant: Different plumbing tasks require different types of silicone sealant. For example, opt for high-temperature silicone for areas exposed to heat, while mildew-resistant sealant is ideal for bathroom and kitchen applications. Read product labels carefully to select the appropriate sealant for your specific needs.

Handling and Curing Considerations: Proper handling and curing are vital for the longevity of the seal. Store sealant tubes in a cool, dry place and ensure they are within their expiration date. After application, allow sufficient curing time as specified by the manufacturer, typically 24 to 48 hours. Avoid exposing the sealant to water or extreme temperatures during this period.

Maintenance and Longevity Strategies: To extend the life of your silicone seals, conduct regular inspections and touch-ups as needed. Remove and reapply sealant if you notice any signs of degradation, such as cracking or peeling. Use UV-resistant silicone for outdoor applications to prevent damage from sun exposure.

Unique or Less-Known Applications of Silicone Sealant in Plumbing

Downspouts: Silicone sealant can effectively seal seams and joints on downspouts in residential and commercial buildings. It can be especially beneficial in regions with heavy rainfall or snowfall, where water can easily penetrate cracks and weaken the downspout’s structure.  It can also help reinforce the connections between different sections of the downspout, ensuring a secure fit that can withstand harsh weather conditions.

Hose Bib: When installing or repairing a hose bib, consider using silicone sealant around the base where it meets the wall to reinforce the bond. This watertight seal can prevent leaks and potential water damage while ensuring a secure connection capable of withstanding external stressors.  Silicone’s elasticity allows it to expand and contract without losing its seal, making it perfect for outdoor applications.

Sewage Ejectors or Sump Pumps: When dealing with sewage ejectors or sump pumps where pipes protrude through a basement wall or foundation, consider applying a silicone sealant to create a watertight seal and prevent any potential leaks or seepage. This serves to protect the surrounding area from water damage and corrosion while also ensuring the efficient operation of the pump.

Roof Penetrations: Silicone sealant can serve as a viable temporary solution for addressing roof penetrations when immediate repair of the roof flashing is not feasible. By applying silicone sealant around the area of the roof penetration, a temporary barrier is created to prevent water leaks and potential damage until a permanent fix can be implemented by a professional roofer. This quick and easily accessible option can provide temporary relief and protection until the repair can be completed.

Silicone sealant is an indispensable product in the plumbing industry, offering versatility and reliability for many applications. Its superior water resistance, flexibility, and ease of use make it a preferred choice among plumbing professionals. By following these techniques and best practices and exploring unique applications, plumbers and contractors can maximize silicone sealant’s benefits.

Sean Comerford is a Technical Applications Manager at Oatey Co. He is a third-generation tradesman with nearly 20 years of plumbing experience, including serving as the lead plumber for commercial/residential new-construction, service and fire protection jobs. He holds a State of Ohio Fire Protection License for Sprinkler and Standpipe.