"Gate valves can get stuck or corrode more easily, especially if they're not used regularly."
Totally agree on this. Had gate valves in my basement for years, and every time I needed to shut off water for repairs, it felt like wrestling a rusty submarine hatch... Ball valves cost a bit more upfront, sure, but they're smooth, reliable, and save you from those "why didn't I replace this sooner?" moments. Worth it for peace of mind alone, imo.
Had a similar issue myself—gate valves installed by the previous homeowner. Every time I needed to shut off water, it was a struggle, especially after they'd sat unused for months. Eventually switched to ball valves, and it's been night and day. They're easier to operate, less prone to corrosion, and honestly, the slight extra cost upfront pays off in reduced maintenance headaches down the line. Highly recommend making the switch if you're dealing with frequent plumbing repairs or upgrades.
"Eventually switched to ball valves, and it's been night and day. They're easier to operate, less prone to corrosion, and honestly, the slight extra cost upfront pays off in reduced maintenance headaches down the line."
Interesting perspective—I had considered ball valves myself but hesitated due to budget constraints. Gate valves have definitely given me headaches, especially when they've been sitting idle for a while. I've found that regular maintenance (opening and closing them every couple of months) helps somewhat, but it's far from ideal.
My main concern with switching over completely is the upfront cost and labor involved. Did you find it necessary to replace all your gate valves at once, or did you gradually phase them out as repairs came up? I'm trying to figure out if there's a practical middle-ground approach here—perhaps prioritizing replacements in areas where frequent shut-offs are needed (like bathrooms or kitchen), and leaving less frequently accessed valves until later.
Another thing that's been on my mind: does anyone know if switching valve types has any noticeable effect on overall water pressure or flow rates? I've read conflicting opinions online—some say ball valves provide slightly better flow because of their design, while others claim the difference is negligible in typical residential setups. Would be curious to hear firsthand experiences on this...
I get the appeal of ball valves, but honestly, I've done plenty of installs where gate valves lasted decades without issue. The key is quality—cheap gate valves are a nightmare waiting to happen, but decent brass ones hold up pretty well with minimal fuss. As for pressure differences, in residential setups, it's barely noticeable. I'd say your idea of gradually swapping valves in high-traffic areas makes sense...no need to rush into a full overhaul if budget's tight.
Have you ever tried shutting off a gate valve that's been sitting untouched for 15 years? It's like arm wrestling a rusty robot...not fun. Sure, quality brass gate valves can last, but even the good ones tend to seize up if they're rarely used. Ball valves just seem more forgiving in my experience—especially when you're scrambling to shut off water during a midnight leak. Gradual replacement makes sense budget-wise, but I'd prioritize swapping out valves in critical spots first. Ever had one seize at the worst possible moment?
