Masco (NYSE:MAS), a global leader in home improvement and building products, reported a robust start to 2026, characterized by high single-digit growth in its plumbing division and a significant expansion of its capital return program.
The Livonia, Michigan-based manufacturer of Delta faucets and Behr paint navigated flat demand in its decorative architectural segment by leveraging strong pricing and operational efficiencies.
For the first quarter ended March 31, 2026, net sales rose 6% to $1.918 billion.
The performance was anchored by the Plumbing Products segment, which saw sales jump 9% to $1.364 billion, fueled by steady demand in both North American and international repair and remodel markets.
Conversely, the Decorative Architectural Products segment reported flat sales, as a cooling DIY paint market offset gains in professional contractor channels.
Profitability metrics showed marked improvement across the enterprise.
GAAP earnings per share reached $1.05, while adjusted EPS grew 20% to $1.04, significantly outperforming the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.88.
Operating margins expanded to 16.5%, supported by strategic pricing actions and the successful integration of Liberty Hardware into the plumbing segment—a structural move intended to streamline Masco’s wellness and water-delivery portfolio.
Meanwhile, the company remained highly active in returning value to shareholders, repurchasing 3.1 million shares for approximately $202 million during the quarter.
This activity follows the Board’s recent authorization of a new $2 billion share repurchase program.
Masco ended the quarter with a strong liquidity position of $1.26 billion, providing the flexibility to pursue further growth initiatives and capital deployment.
Looking ahead, Masco reaffirmed its full-year 2026 guidance.
The company expects GAAP EPS in the range of $3.91 to $4.11, and adjusted EPS of $4.10 to $4.30.