Project Spotlight: Viega Press Keeps NYC Multifamily Renovations on Schedule

For Neptune Mechanical, a Queens, New York–based contractor specializing in large-scale plumbing and mechanical work that reality is front and center on two major multifamily renovation projects: Linden Plaza and Eastchester Gardens. Across hundreds of apartments and multiple buildings, Neptune is relying on Viega press technology to keep projects moving quickly, safely and confidently.

Managing Scale Speed and Responsibility in Occupied Buildings

Neptune Mechanical is one of the larger plumbing fit-out contractors operating in New York City. In addition to domestic water systems, the company performs mechanical piping, hydronic work, boiler plant installations and condensate piping often within the same project scope.

Joe Souza is a senior project manager at Neptune Mechanical and oversees work that must move fast without sacrificing quality. On Eastchester Gardens alone, the scope includes approximately 850 apartments across 10 buildings scheduled over a 36-month renovation timeline.

“These are fast-paced renovation jobs,” Souza explains. “If we were not pressing, I don’t think we’d really be able to keep up with the schedule, to be completely honest.”

That speed matters because these are not empty buildings. Crews are often working in active residential environments where timing is critical and delays quickly impact residents.

“There are projects where you have one day to finish a bathroom,” Souza adds. “At the end of the day that person needs to be back in there being able to take a shower and there’s no possible way I could do that without using press.”

From Traditional Methods to Modern Press Solutions

Neptune’s current reliance on press systems is especially notable because it wasn’t always the norm. Like many contractors, the company historically brazed and soldered copper. A previous negative experience with a different press product, including leaks, created skepticism and reinforced traditional joining methods.

“From when I started at Neptune it was drilled into my head: we braze and we solder copper,” Souza recalls. “That’s how we do it.”

What changed wasn’t marketing, it was measurable results. After reviewing time studies that compared brazing versus pressing, receiving proper training and seeing Viega® technology demonstrated firsthand, Neptune decided to reintroduce press this time as a full-system approach.

“Even if the fittings cost a couple bucks more, the ability to save time and labor is paramount,” Souza says. “Once we got the training and saw the product, things really took off.”

Today, Neptune uses Viega press fittings MegaPress® [MC1] and complete press systems across large renovation scopes and has implemented press as a standard practice on retrofit work.

Advantages of Flameless Pipe Installation

One of the biggest advantages Neptune realized was the ability to work faster while simplifying jobsite logistics. Traditional brazing often requires daily hot work permits, fire watch personnel and special handling and storage of fuel gases.

“In existing buildings, that becomes a major challenge,” Souza explains. “With brazing, I need fire watch hot work permits every day and FDNY permits just to store acetylene.”

By switching to flameless pipe installation using Viega press solutions, Neptune reduced dependencies that slow production and require additional manpower. “I don’t have to do any of that with press,” Souza says. “It’s a no-brainer, especially for retrofit projects.”

Improving Workflow with Press Stop Valves During Rough-In

One of the most impactful innovations on these projects came from a change in sequencing at the unit level. For the first time, Neptune used press stop valves (angle stops) during the rough-in phase instead of waiting until fixtures were installed near the end of the project.

This adjustment also comes with an additional benefit. Pressure testing can be performed earlier in the process. Since a valve is already in place, Souza can test the entire line without having to rush and complete the task just before tile installation begins.

Across hundreds of apartments, this approach helped Neptune reduce last-minute issues, improve closeout efficiency and maintain tighter control of the project schedule, demonstrating how Viega press systems support smarter workflows beyond installation speed alone.

Supporting Planning with Viega Engineering Services

On multifamily renovation projects of this scale, planning and procurement are just as important as installation. Neptune worked with Viega to support the projects through engineering services and job takeoffs, allowing the team to plan material quantities accurately across multiple buildings.

“We sent the drawings and had full job takeoffs done for each project,” he says. “That made budgeting and purchasing much easier.”

This support helped Neptune navigate material planning, pricing volatility and coordination with distributors, reinforcing the value of end-to-end Viega solutions that extend beyond the fitting itself.

It also enabled Neptune to meet non-negotiables for potable water systems. In New York City, compliance is non-negotiable, especially for potable water systems. “Anything anywhere near potable water has to meet NSF 61 and NSF 372,” Souza explains. “It’s the first thing engineers look at.”

With Viega plumbing systems designed to meet stringent standards, Neptune was able to move forward confidently knowing products aligned with local codes and inspection requirements.

Impact Of Viega Press Solutions on Neptune’s Large-Scale Projects

When asked what Souza would tell other contractors considering press technology, his response is direct: “If you’re interested in working quickly and efficiently, you’ve got to go with Viega press,” he says.

“And if you want a company that supports you and answers your questions, that’s the way to go.”

Souza is straightforward about cost. He emphasizes that price alone should not be the deciding factor. He acknowledges that Viega is not always the least expensive option, but points out that there’s a valid reason for that. Souza recounts talking with contractors who prioritize saving a small amount on individual fittings over the substantial benefits of saving a week of production time and how they “may not find long-term success in the industry.”

Delivering Reliable Results Where They Matter Most

For Neptune Mechanical, adopting Viega’s comprehensive press solutions wasn’t just about speed, it was about responsibility. “When you’re working in someone’s home, there’s more pressure, but there’s also more pride,” Souza concludes. “We’ve got to make sure that person’s shower doesn’t leak. They don’t have anywhere else to go.”

On projects like Linden Plaza and Eastchester Gardens, Viega press technology is helping contractors meet aggressive timelines, reduce risk and support the communities they serve, one reliable connection at a time.