Contents

Serving people right

BY RACHEL WARTIAN STAFF WRITER

The Cobb family is celebrating 50 years of keeping Suffolk families comfortable with Suffolk Sheet Metal. Cola Cobb bought Suffolk Sheet Metal in 1970. He now runs the business with help from his son Ray who joined him in 1991. “Suffolk Sheet Metal is one of the oldest business names in Suffolk,” said Cobb. “We didn’t change the name so we could keep the integrity that already existed.”

At that time, the company focused on heating, roofing, electrical, and gutters. According to Ray Cobb, Cola Cobb’s son, during the late 1960s and early 1970s, central air conditioning units were starting to be put into houses. Before then, homes would have heating and window units. “Right now, we are actually starting to replace the A/C units that [Cola] installed in homes the 70s,” said Ray Cobb.

Suffolk Sheet Metal eventually dropped roofing and gutters and switched to only heating, air conditioning, and electrical. The main focus is on small commercial and residential. According to Cola, they do the projects most do not want to mess with and have only turned down a handful of jobs.

The company tries to live by the golden rule: treat others as you would like to be treated.

“When you serve people right they keep coming back to you,” said Cobb. “It has been our great clients that have kept us in business.”

Suffolk Sheet Metal celebrated 50 years on March 1. Unfortunately, COVID-19 put a stop to the 50-year celebration party. “We are hoping to have a 51-year party instead if all goes well,” said Stacie Cobb, Ray’s wife. “Right now we’ve put ads out to thank our clients for supporting us throughout the years.”

During these 50 years, the company has experienced many changes in the business. Cola recalled a time when the outside air conditioning unit cost as much as the replacement engine today. Those also would work at a level 3 efficiency compared to the present level of 24.

“Things are constantly changing,” said Cola. “They’re constantly getting more efficient and computerized.”

Ray has three sons that one day may take over the business too. Two of them are teenagers and already work during the summer.

“Passing it down is the game plan,” said Ray Cobb. “It’s whatever they want to do, but I hope at least one of the three will.” “If not all three,” added Cola.

Suffolk Sheet Metal hopes to serve the Hampton Roads and Northeastern North Carolina for another 50 years.

“If you want to stay hot or cool you call Suffolk Sheet Metal,” said Cola.

RACHEL WARTIAN/SUFFOLK NEWS-HERALD Ray and Stacie joined the family business started by Cola and Peggy Cobb to provide 50 years of service to Suffolk and surrounding areas.

Need directions to your financial destination?

MKT-5894I-A Van Haislip • Financial Advisor

3300 Tyre Neck Rd Suite L Portsmouth, VA 23703 • 757-483-3204