Stop Cock Will Not Close Completely

[johnny37]

In the process of fitting a new kitchen mixer tap I found the stop cock very stiff and will not close completey. Fitting the tap is relatively simple if i can turn off the water. I know the stop cock needs taking apart. again i need to stop the water to do this. I recall a plumber some time ago turning the water off at the mains where the meter is. How is this done? Alternatively, would freezing the pipe work, long enough for me to fit the new mixer?

Thaanks

[ummmm]

Our water is turned off in the street.

[MichaelZZ]

Although the pipe freezing stuff is sold at e.g. B&Q I still think it is not something for the amateur to attempt.

[The Builder]

Probably in the pavement outside your house, Johnny. Likely to be a normal stopcok if you're unmetered, If metered, then probably a quarter-turn valve.

Failing that, then freezing is a good option. Either a rented professional kit, or a simple DIY set ............

http://www.screwfix.com/p/rothenberger-tradesmans-pipe-freezing-kit/95208

Freezing gives around 20-30 mins work time. Either fit the mixer, or, much quicker, time enough to fit a simple shut-off valve between the frozen plug, and the mixer. I guess this is for the cold only?

[The Builder]

When they were first around, MichaelZZ, I had to learn it as an "amateur". Nothing to it, I can assure you.

The instructions are usually pretty good.

[johnny37]

Another solution occurs to me. What about one of those on/off taps that you clamp around the supply pipe and screw into the pipe. Normally used for plumbing in a washing machine I think.

[ummmm]

Have you checked outside yet?

[RATTER15]

Johnny, the on off tap you are referring to does not shut off the supply, only the supply to the washing machine, that wont work. I am no plumber but the freezing kit is easy to use, no problem at all when I used.

[SlackAlice]

johnny37

Your post at 10.00 sounds like a 'bodge' job!

Your new kitchen tap is a replacement, so how are you going to stop up the old piping if you fit something else?

[RATTER15]

You could also oil the stem of the stop cock and just wind it up and down a few times, it may free up a little and allow you to close it completely.