When it comes to renovating historic or occupied buildings, contractors face a unique set of challenges: limited access, tight timelines, and the need to minimize disruption. That’s where NIBCO Press Fittings shine—offering a fast, flame-free, and reliable solution that’s tailor-made for retrofit environments.
Case in Point: The Strater Hotel Renovation
The historic Strater Hotel in Durango, Colorado, is a Victorian-era landmark known for its ornate architecture and old-world charm. But behind the scenes, its aging hydronic heating system was struggling to keep up with modern demands. Altitude Backflow—a company specializing in backflow prevention, plumbing, and HVAC services—partnered with Dahl Plumbing to find a way to upgrade the system without compromising the building’s structure or disrupting the guest experience.
Enter NIBCO® PressACR® Fittings.
Why Press Fittings Were the Perfect Fit
In a building like the Strater Hotel, where walls are thick, crawl spaces are narrow, and operations must continue uninterrupted, traditional pipe-joining methods like soldering or welding are impractical. Press fittings eliminate the need for open flames, making them safer and more efficient in confined or sensitive areas.
Here’s how they made a difference:
- Speed and Safety: Press technology allowed the team to make secure connections in seconds—without hot work permits or fire watch requirements.
- Minimal Disruption: With guests still occupying parts of the hotel, the quiet, clean installation process helped maintain a peaceful environment.
- Tight-Space Friendly: The compact press tools and fittings were ideal for maneuvering through tight mechanical rooms and behind walls.
- Reliable Performance: Secure, consistent connections mean fewer callbacks and reliable performance
A Retrofit Game-Changer
The Strater Hotel project is a textbook example of how modern press technology can breathe new life into old systems—without the headaches. For contractors, engineers, and facility managers, NIBCO PressACR Fittings offer a retrofit-ready solution that balances performance, safety, and speed.
Whether you're working in a historic hotel, a bustling hospital, or a high-rise apartment, press fittings help you get the job done—cleanly, quickly, and confidently. For more information about NIBCO’s PressACR system, visit: www.nibco.com/brands/nibco/press-systems/pressacr/
