Rekeying or Changing the Lock: What You Should Know
When you move into a new home, lose a set of keys, or are looking to have the keys for your home’s locks match, your first instinct is likely to change the locks. However, many people don’t realize that they have another option available: rekeying. Rekeying can be an economically and practically advantageous alternative to changing your locks altogether. Here we’ll explore the differences between rekeying and changing locks and provide advice as to when it would make more sense for you to rekey rather than completely replace the lock.nstraints.
Rekeying vs. Changing Locks: What’s The Difference?
Changing locks involves replacing the entire locking mechanism with all new pieces. This means that a locksmith will remove the entire lock from a door and substitute it with an entirely new one that comes with its own unique set of keys. Depending on what type of lock you have, this can often become quite expensive due to both labor costs as well as purchasing a brand-new lock.
On the other hand, rekeying involves taking apart your current lock without having to remove it from its place on the door. A locksmith then replaces only the tumblers or key pins inside -these are the tiny parts inside of each lock that align with grooves in each key in order for it to unlock the door- instead of replacing everything else around them. In essence, after replacing these pins, any old keys won’t work anymore as you will be provided with a new set matching only this latest combination of tumblers/key pins.
How Much Does It Cost To Rekey a Lock?
Given that there is no need for purchasing an entirely new locking mechanism as is required when changing locks, rekeying is much cheaper in comparison. All that will be necessary are some replacement pins (which tend not to be costly) along with a brand-new set of keys and labor charges. As professional locksmiths can usually finish up their work within minutes, costs won’t add up too quickly either! To get an idea on pricing for any given service by professional locksmiths including rekeying services check here for more details.
How To Rekey A Lock?
In order for someone (or yourself) to successfully rekey a lock all that’s needed are some specific tools and expertise which may come from sources such as information from reliable websites like this one here as well as professional help like trusty local locksmiths who know exactly what they’re doing! Most commonly used tools include something known as a pinning kit which helps change those aforementioned tumblers/pins inside your current lock enabling you to receive a totally new set of matched up keys in return!
If this is the case it’s always best to compare prices for changing locks versus rekeying -you may find out that purchasing a rekeying kit and doing it yourself could end up costing more than hiring a professional to do it! Not only that but there’s also a risk of permanently damaging the lock when attempting to rekey it incorrectly which would mean needing to completely replace your existing lock! Ultimately, if you don’t have any experience with rekeying locks its best left to those who do.
Changing Locks vs. Rekeying: When to Do Each?
Change Lock
When looking to upgrade your property’s level of security, changing locks is often the most effective solution. Additionally, if your locks are old or damaged, rust or tampered from a burglary attempt, it’s wise to replace the entire mechanism rather than rekey them.
Rekeying Locks
If you are satisfied with the current security of your locks but concerned about who has access to keys, rekeying is usually an easier and cost-effective alternative. This might be the case if you move into a new home and don’t know who else may have a copy of the key or if you have recently lost one set of keys and fear someone could have found it. Rekeying can also come in handy if you want all your doors to open with just one key, it requires that all lock cylinders be compatible in order for this to work successfully.
It’s important to note that rekeying does not alter any aspect of the locking mechanism itself – only its corresponding key changes. If you are looking for increased security options then changing out all existing locks would make sense over rekeying them. Consider carefully what level of protection and convenience you need before making any decisions regarding lock replacement or rekeying. If unsure what route to take then consulting with a certified locksmith will help clarify which approach will benefit you best and fit into your budget constraints.
