The main water supply line shut off value is located in our basement. I've already changed it once. The problem is water is getting through the value even when it's tightly shut off. So in the winter, after draining the pipes, water continues to seep through, then I have a problem with freezing / bursting pipes. I don't exactly know what type of value it is... but it's brass with a round blue handle which is turned several rotations to turn the water either on or off... Can anyone help with determining why a new valve of this type wouldn't shut the flow off completely... and is there a better type value that would be more efficient and maybe better for colder climates.

Thanks,

HR

There is normally a second main shut off, one on each side of the meter. Try locating the other shut off, could even be outside. Sounds like you have a gate valve with a bad seat ot washer, both are repairable but I'd install a ball valve and be done with this problem for good. http://www.grainger.com/Grainger/wwg/guideBrowse.shtml