Quarter Ball

Quarter Ball is a manufacturer of frost-proof ball valve sillcocks and gas valves for residential and commercial plumbing applications. Quarter Ball updated the traditional frost-proof sillcock by replacing compression washers and ceramic discs with a solid brass cartridge and chrome-plated solid brass ball, factory-tested to more than 290,000 on/off cycles with no leaks. Quarter Ball sillcocks are available in body lengths of 6", 8", 10", 12", and 14" to accommodate standard 2x4 framing, 2x6 framing, and insulated or double-stud wall assemblies. Every anti-siphon model includes dual backflow protection built in at the factory: a spring-loaded check valve at the inlet and an atmospheric vacuum breaker at the outlet. Plumbers and contractors specify Quarter Ball where exterior plumbing needs to perform through decades of freeze-thaw cycling without callbacks caused by worn washers or failed O-rings.

Quarter Ball Product Lines

Frost-Proof Ball Valve Sillcocks (Sweat and Threaded)

The Frost-Proof Ball Valve Sillcock is Quarter Ball's primary product line, built for exterior wall installation in any climate where protecting against freezing is required. The shut-off mechanism sits inside the wall so the exposed body drains each time the handle closes. Sweat-inlet and male-pipe-thread-inlet versions serve copper pipe systems and are available in 6", 8", 10", 12", and 14" body lengths to match the full range of residential wall thicknesses. Custom valve seats are rated to more than 290,000 cycles, documenting consistent shut-off performance over the full service life of the fitting. Female-pipe-thread inlet models are also available for installations requiring a threaded-female supply connection.

PEX Connection Frost-Proof Sillcocks

Quarter Ball PEX-connection sillcocks use a 1/2" PEX crimp inlet that accepts standard copper crimp rings, making them the direct choice for new construction and repipe projects using PEX tubing. The PEX connection series uses the same solid brass cartridge, chrome-plated ball, and dual backflow protection as the sweat and threaded models, keeping performance characteristics identical across connection types. Where the sweat-connection series requires open-flame soldering near exterior sheathing, the PEX connection series allows a cold-press connection that can simplify the rough-in sequence. Body lengths span 6" through 14" to match the same wall thickness range as the sweat-connection line.

Gas Valves

Quarter Ball gas valves provide 1/4-turn shut-off for residential and light commercial gas supply lines, with a clear visual distinction between open and closed position. The 1/4-turn ball valve mechanism requires less operating torque than multi-turn globe-style gas valves, which can reduce physical effort during service work in confined utility spaces. Quarter Ball gas valves are sized for standard residential gas line applications, including appliance hookup and HVAC fuel-supply service. Where the Quarter Ball sillcock line addresses exterior water shut-off, the gas valve line applies the same ball valve reliability principle to gas service.

Why Contractors Specify Quarter Ball

Contractors specify Quarter Ball sillcocks because the solid brass cartridge and chrome-plated ball eliminate the wear components responsible for most exterior faucet callbacks: no rubber washers, no ceramic discs, no O-rings. The custom valve seats are factory-rated to more than 290,000 on/off cycles, a figure that far exceeds the lifetime use pattern of a typical residential hose bib. Every anti-siphon Quarter Ball sillcock includes dual backflow protection built in from the factory, satisfying code requirements for hose bib installations without a separately purchased vacuum breaker device. The 1/4-turn handle operates comfortably in either hand, reducing occupant friction after installation. Quarter Ball sillcocks meet Low Lead requirements for potable water connections, simplifying specification in jurisdictions with lead-free mandates.

How to Choose a Quarter Ball Product

The primary selection variable for a Quarter Ball sillcock is body length. Measure from the exterior face of the siding to the interior stop point for the inlet fitting. Standard 2x4 framing typically fits a 6" or 8" body; 2x6 and insulated walls usually require an 8" to 12" body; double-stud or heavily insulated assemblies may need the 14" model. The correct body length ensures the shut-off mechanism sits fully inside the building's insulation plane, which is what delivers the freeze protection the product is designed for.

The second variable is inlet connection type. Sweat-inlet and MPT-inlet models are standard for existing copper systems. FPT-inlet models suit installations where the supply pipe is externally threaded. Quarter Ball PEX-connection sillcocks are the appropriate choice for new construction or repipe projects using PEX tubing, eliminating the need for a copper adapter at the wall penetration.

For gas valve selection, match the Quarter Ball gas valve connection size to the supply line diameter at the point of installation. Confirm the valve is rated for the gas type in service (natural gas or LP) and that inlet and outlet connections align with the supply line and appliance fitting dimensions. Consult the Quarter Ball specification sheet for pressure ratings before final specification in commercial applications.

FAQs

Where are Quarter Ball products manufactured?

Quarter Ball manufacturing location is not published on the official Quarter Ball website. For origin details, contact Quarter Ball directly or check the product packaging at delivery.

What warranty does Quarter Ball offer on its sillcocks and gas valves?

Quarter Ball warranty terms are not detailed on the official Quarter Ball website. Verify coverage with Quarter Ball or an authorized distributor before installation. The valve seats are factory-tested to more than 290,000 on/off cycles, which documents durability independent of stated warranty terms.

What is the difference between Quarter Ball sweat-connection and PEX-connection sillcocks?

The difference between Quarter Ball sweat-connection and PEX-connection sillcocks is the inlet fitting type. Sweat-connection models use a copper sweat inlet for soldered copper pipe systems. PEX-connection models use a 1/2" crimp inlet for PEX tubing. The brass ball cartridge, dual backflow protection, and available body lengths are identical across both.

How do I select the right Quarter Ball sillcock length?

Selecting the correct Quarter Ball sillcock body length requires measuring wall thickness from the exterior siding face to the interior inlet fitting stop point. Standard 2x4 framing typically fits a 6" or 8" body; 2x6 and insulated assemblies usually require 8" to 12"; double-stud construction may need the 14" body. The right length keeps the shut-off mechanism fully inside the insulation plane.

Are Quarter Ball anti-siphon sillcocks code-compliant for hose bib applications?

Quarter Ball anti-siphon sillcocks include an atmospheric vacuum breaker at the outlet and a spring-loaded check valve at the inlet, meeting the dual backflow protection requirement in most residential plumbing codes. Confirm compliance with the local jurisdiction's specific code before installation.

Which Quarter Ball sillcock is the right fit for a PEX rough-in?

The Quarter Ball PEX-connection frost-proof sillcock is designed for PEX rough-ins. The 1/2" crimp inlet accepts standard copper crimp rings and works with common PEX crimp tooling. It eliminates the need for a transition adapter at the exterior connection and is available in 6" through 14" body lengths.