With 30 years of experience in the plumbing industry, Ben Tucker always had a passion for solving tough plumbing challenges. In 2022, he took a leap of faith and started his own company, Acadiana Rooter. Knowing that modern plumbing solutions were key to standing out in the market, he made a strategic decision right from the start – integrating NuFlow pipe lining into his services. “I knew I needed to offer NuFlow pipe lining,” Ben said.
Choosing NuFlow: A No-Brainer Decision
Ben was no stranger to NuFlow’s pipe lining technology. “I had some experience with NuFlow pipe lining from my previous job. I was already familiar with the product, so I wanted to continue,” he shared. Unlike other CIPP vendors that offered limited rehabilitation solutions, NuFlow’s pull-in-place technology provided a complete system rehabilitation, making it the perfect fit for residential work. “Other companies don’t offer tech support—you are on your own,” Ben explained. “Plus, others offer inversion and patch CIPP, but they don’t offer full system rehabilitation options. I think pull-in-place CIPP is a better product for the residential work that we do.” Ben also appreciated NuFlow’s dedication to innovation. “I love that NuFlow continues to innovate and deliver new products for their contractors,” he said.
Fast ROI & Business Growth
Starting a business is always a challenge, but integrating NuFlow pipe lining proved to be a game-changer for Acadiana Rooter. Even as a one-man operation in the beginning, Ben recouped his initial investment within the first year. “It was awesome because I was still building my clientele list. We didn’t have many jobs, but I didn’t have any problems paying it off with the work that I had,” he recalled. As his business grew, he further invested in the NuCure CCUV system, which paid for itself—twice over—on the very first job.
Today, pipe lining makes up a significant portion of Acadiana Rooter’s business. While the company started primarily with residential projects, it has since expanded into commercial work, including contracts with local elementary schools and the Lafayette Sheriff’s Department. “NuFlow sends leads in my area, and that has been a huge help,” Ben added. “Most of our customers are residential, but we have taken on more commercial-size projects. The reaction from residential customers is great. Most people are unaware that lining is even possible!”
The ability to tackle specialized jobs, such as lining 2” kitchen sink lines—a challenge for many competitors—has given Acadiana Rooter a competitive edge in the region. “2” is a specialty for us compared to the competitors in the area,” he noted.
The Power of NuFlow’s Support & Training
NuFlow’s support is a lifesaver. As a small business owner, Ben wears a lot of hats and does all the lining work himself. “Having a team to back me up is huge. Being able to call NuFlow’s support team to troubleshoot a project, talk through the details, and make an execution plan gives me the confidence to get the job done right the first time,” Ben shared. “It’s like having a sounding board to make sure everything goes smoothly, and that kind of support makes all the difference.”
Ben doesn’t just use NuFlow’s products – he fully leverages the brand’s extensive training and support network. “I take advantage of the 24/7 support team any chance I can. I will call them ahead of an upcoming job to talk through a project,” he said.
One of Ben’s first big NuFlow projects came just three months after launching his business. NuFlow provided a lead for the Lafayette Sheriff’s Department, where Ben rehabilitated 160 feet of cast-iron piping that had been in place since the 1960s. “We lined 160’ of 4” cast iron with a 6” transition to the street. I’ve been called back to investigate a stoppage in the jail, and everything we lined in 2024 is holding up great. They haven’t had any issues since we lined it,” he shared.
A Thriving Community of Contractors
Beyond the technical benefits, NuFlow has introduced Ben to a network of like-minded professionals. “It’s a community. I’ve made a lot of friendships with other NuFlow contractors. We call each other for recommendations, thoughts on projects, or just to catch up. I consider them friends,” Ben said. “I met most of them at the annual summits and have built friendships through the years.”
Advice for Future Contractors
When asked what he would say to other plumbers considering NuFlow, Ben’s response is simple: “Go for it.” His advice? “Take advantage of the training and take your time. It’s a great opportunity to grow your business, and you can provide a lot of solutions for a lot of people.”
From a one-man shop to a trusted name in Louisiana’s plumbing industry, Acadiana Rooter’s success story is a testament to the power of innovation, dedication, and the right partnership. With NuFlow in his toolkit, Ben Tucker continues to provide top-tier solutions to his customers, setting new standards in trenchless pipe rehabilitation.