I need to replace an old gate valve that has a leaky stem. This valve is located about 3 to 4 inches off the floor and is the main cutoff for the house before the water meter. The copper coming into the old valve is 3/4 and I want to use a (Code required) ball valve. I'm concerned that the joint is too close to the floor for a decent sweat joint and was wondering if anyone has used compression-type 3/4 ball valves in this situation. My other thought was to use a 3/4 male adaptor and then a 3/4 ball valve with female threaded body.