For over 25 years MSI Plumbing & Remodeling has long roots in Hunterdon County. Founded by Les Giese and Anne Thornton, the company grew from property management into a full-service shop. Their daughter, Audra Giese, grew up in the business, returned in 2018 and became president in 2021. Remodeling Manager Brad Howell started as a summer helper 35 years ago, became a partner in 2004 and now oversees projects with an eye for detail. Plumbing Manager Rich DeTorres, a licensed master plumber since 1991, keeps the service side running smoothly.
MSI has expanded because, as the team puts it, they like helping people — and rarely say no. Today, services include plumbing — from fixtures and water heaters to filtration and whole-house “report card” inspections — as well as remodeling for kitchens, baths, basements and more. The company also handles home systems, including HVAC tuneups and standby generators.
What Sets Them Apart
MSI emphasizes people-first service backed by in-house expertise across most trades. That means fewer outside crews in your home and fewer scheduling headaches. Many clients return for second or third remodels and request the same team members by name. The company is a certified Women’s Business Enterprise known for friendly service and practical problem-solving.
Top Five To-Dos Before the First Freeze
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Insulate exposed water lines in basements, attics, crawl spaces and garages.
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Drain and shut off outdoor spigots, hoses and irrigation lines.
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Install a smart water shut-off valve; many insurers now require or reward these.
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Schedule a heating tuneup before temperatures dip.
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Seal drafts around doors, windows and wall penetrations to protect pipes on exterior walls.
Frozen Pipes: Risk Zones and Quick Prevention
Pipes along exterior walls or in unheated areas — basements, crawl spaces, garages and attics — face the greatest risk. Add insulation or heat tape, seal air leaks and drain exterior lines. During severe cold, open cabinet doors under sinks and let a faucet trickle overnight. If you’re unsure what’s vulnerable, MSI’s whole-home plumbing inspection can identify weak spots with photos and recommendations.
Water Heaters in Winter
Maintenance: Check the anode rod, test the temperature and pressure relief valve, and inspect for leaks or corrosion. If the tank has never been flushed, a first-time flush can stir up sediment and cause problems — proceed carefully and consult a professional.
Temperature: Set to 120 degrees for comfort, safety and efficiency.
Repair vs. Replace: Hard water shortens life expectancy; eight to 12 years is common. Repair newer units with minor issues; replace aging or corroded tanks. New Jersey requires permits for water heater replacements, so make sure your plumber handles the paperwork.
Sump Pumps and Storm Readiness
Pour water into the pit to confirm the pump kicks on, test the float and check the discharge line. If your basement is prone to flooding, consider a battery backup to ride out outages.
Safety Must-Knows
Place carbon monoxide detectors near bedrooms and fuel-burning appliances. Keep vents and chimneys clear of snow and debris. If you suspect a gas or CO leak, evacuate, call 911 from outside and don’t reenter until cleared.
Small Efficiency Upgrades That Pay Off
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Smart thermostats for tighter control and less waste.
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Automatic water shut-off valves for leak protection, often incentivized by insurers.
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Pipe insulation to keep hot water hot and prevent freezing.
Emergency Playbook: Steps Before a Tech Arrives
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Shut off the main water valve — know where it is before you need it.
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If safe, shut off gas and electricity to affected appliances.
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Contain leaks with buckets and towels.
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Call your contractor, take photos for insurance and wait for the pros.
Team Milestones
MSI is celebrating two team members, Peter Rude and Zack Lalas, who completed apprenticeships and are now test-ready for New Jersey’s master plumber license. The credential requires five years of apprenticeship and a three-part exam that includes business law — no small feat at a time when few new licenses are issued each year.
Remodeling, Coordinated
Remodeling Manager Brad Howell leads a team that self-performs carpentry, plumbing, tile and finishes, partnering with local electrical firms as needed. MSI’s in-office Showcase — a curated micro-showroom — features cabinets, quartz, fixtures, hardware and paint, plus a large screen to review manufacturer sites and designs. The focused selection helps clients make confident choices without the overwhelm of a sprawling showroom.
Local design note: In a county full of century homes and farmhouses, clients often prefer timeless, traditional details. One growing request: stylish grab bars that double as towel or shower bars.
Bathrooms, by budget
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Under $5,000: Add grab bars that blend in, upgrade faucets and handheld showers, or install a high-end washlet bidet with a heated seat and night light. Brands such as Moen and Toto are standouts for reliability.
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Under $15,000: Convert a tub/shower combo to a full shower. Don’t overthink resale — design for how you live; the next owner can always add a tub. When comparing estimates, confirm material allowances are realistic to avoid surprise costs.
Kitchen upgrades that work:
Consider a dedicated instant hot and filtered water faucet for everyday convenience. Pot fillers look impressive but can introduce maintenance issues and still leave you carrying a heavy pot back to the sink to drain.
Timeline 101: From Consult to Punch List
A typical project begins with an on-site visit to assess the space, budget and options. MSI provides a detailed estimate with allowances and a timeline. After contract and deposit, permits are filed and selections begin — often in the Showcase with guidance from President Audra Giese. Decide on long-lead items early, especially custom American-made cabinets. Once selections are set, work moves into demolition, rough-ins, inspections and installations, then finishes and a final walkthrough. With most trades handled in-house, schedules stay tight and coordination issues are minimized.
Bottom line: A little preparation before the first freeze — and a few smart upgrades — can make your home safer, more efficient and far less stressful all winter long.
For more information, visit msiplumbingandremodeling.com.