Quick Check-Up Trick To Avoid Plumbing Nightmares
I get the hesitation on cost, but honestly, I lean toward swapping them out as I go—especially if I’m already opening up a wall or working on a remodel. It’s not always about doing everything at once. Sometimes just replacing the worst offenders makes a big difference, and you avoid that “why didn’t I do this sooner?” moment when something finally fails. Ball valves tend to last longer and are way less likely to seize up when you actually need them. Just my two cents from seeing too many old gate valves crumble at the worst possible time...
Totally agree about ball valves—those old gate valves are just waiting to let you down. I swapped a couple out last year when I had the drywall open and it was such a relief. Honestly, even just doing one or two at a time makes a difference. Funny how you never think about them until you’re ankle-deep in water...