What should I look for when buying shut-off valve types: ball vs gate vs globe?

Replace every gate valve with a ball valve when you get the chance. Exercise shut-off valves annually to prevent seizing. Full-port ball valves for main shut-offs. Standard-port fine for fixtures.

What are common mistakes when buying shut-off valve types: ball vs gate vs globe?

Leaving gate valves assuming they work. Test every valve before an emergency. Using a globe valve as a shut-off. Overtightening ball valve connections.

Shut-Off Valve Types: Ball vs Gate vs Globe

Buying Guide

Created by Ryan Pietrzak Illinois Licensed Plumber · In the plumbing industry since 2009

Updated February 20, 2026

Key Takeaway

Ball valves are the modern standard -- reliable, easy to operate, and long-lasting. Gate valves seize and fail. Globe valves are for flow regulation, not shut-off. Knowing the difference helps you choose the right valve and identify which ones need replacement.

Overview

What to Know

Ball Valves

Quarter-turn operation. Full-port design provides unrestricted flow. Positive seal. Works reliably even after years without use. The replacement choice for every shut-off. $5-15 each.

Gate Valves

Multi-turn wheel. Wedge-shaped gate lowers into flow path. Prone to seizing after years of non-use. When they seize, they fail partially open. Found in older homes. Replace with ball valves.

Globe Valves

Multi-turn wheel with internal disc for flow regulation. Designed for throttling, not shut-off. More pressure drop than ball or gate. Used for hose bibs. Not recommended as fixture shut-offs.

Comparison

Ball: quarter-turn, full flow, reliable, modern standard, $5-15

Gate: multi-turn, seizes over time, found in older homes, replace on sight

Globe: multi-turn, for flow regulation, not for shut-off, hose bibs

Buying Tips

Replace every gate valve with a ball valve when you get the chance.
Exercise shut-off valves annually to prevent seizing.
Full-port ball valves for main shut-offs. Standard-port fine for fixtures.
Push-fit ball valves are fastest for adding shut-offs anywhere.

Common Mistakes

Leaving gate valves assuming they work. Test every valve before an emergency.
Using a globe valve as a shut-off.
Overtightening ball valve connections.
Not knowing where the main shut-off is.

Bottom Line

Ball valves for everything. Replace gate valves on sight. Test all shut-offs annually. Your main shut-off is the most important valve in the house.