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Main water shut-off valves last 10 to 20 years on average, though they can sometimes last longer. This depends in part on the material you choose. Brass valves are very durable, but more expensive bronze or stainless steel valves may last even longer. Main water shut-off valves often fail due to aging internal parts, such as rubber washers. However, corrosion and sediment buildup also contribute to valve failure. If purchasing a home at least 10 years old, you may want to replace the main water shut-off valve soon to avoid potential problems.

The most common situation in which you should turn off the main water shut-off valve is if there’s a leak in your home, such as in the kitchen or bathroom. Turning off the water supply can prevent further water damage.

You may want to turn off the valve before leaving for an extended period, in case of leaks or pipe bursts while you’re gone. If you’re going to work on plumbing fixtures or appliances, it’s also a good idea to shut off the main valve to ensure no water flow during repairs or installation.

As far as plumbing goes, replacing a kitchen faucet is an entry-level project. That said, you may run into complications. If your faucet is incompatible with your countertop or you have to alter your plumbing, you may want to hire a pro.

To measure pipe size, you can use a ruler, a soft tape measure, or a caliper. You can find a special pipe caliper that has iron or copper pipe sizes already marked. Rulers work if the end of the pipe is exposed. If your pipe is still attached to the plumbing, you’ll need to go for a soft tape measure or caliper.