It is important to secure your home in order to protect yourself and your loved ones. It doesn’t matter if you just moved in or have lived there for many years. Evaluating the security and condition of your locks will be a wise move. Should you rekey your locks or change them completely? Understanding the differences can help you decide which option is best for the safety of your home and your budget.
Get Consultation
Why you should consider changing your locks
This involves changing the locking mechanism and getting a new lock. This option has certain benefits, but it is more expensive and not always necessary. Here are some situations when changing locks is the best option:
- You Have Old or Damaged Locks: If you have locks that are old, damaged, or corroded or do not function properly, it is best to replace them.
- Upgrade to high-security locks and electronic locks if you want better security:
- You need uniformity across all doors: If you have different locks on your home, it is possible to change them and standardize the locks. This will allow you to use one key for each door.
- If you’ve lost your key: In certain cases, it may be cheaper to replace the lock than rekey, especially if rekeying is not possible without the original keys.
When to Rekey Locks
Rekeying is the process of altering internal components in a lock to make it operate with a new, non-functional key. It is more practical and cost-effective to rekey locks than change them. Rekeying is a good option in the following situations:
- All Locks Require Different Keys. If you have locks of the same type and brand, but they require different keys, rekeying will allow you to combine them into a single key.
- Rekeying is the best solution if you have lost a key. If you are worried that someone could find it and gain access to your home, this will ensure that an old key can’t be used.
- If you’ve moved into a new home, the previous owners or tenants might still have copies. You can have peace of mind knowing that your property is protected from unauthorized entry by rekeying.
How to Rekey Locks
You can buy a rekeying set if you are handy with tools. These kits can be purchased at most hardware stores. They include instructions and all the necessary tools. This is a step by step guide on how to rekey your lock and key system.
- Insert the key into the exterior knob and turn it to the right. Remove the knob using the remover tool provided.
- Remove the Cylinder Lock. Turn the key to its original position, and remove the key as well as the cylinder.
- Remove the Clip Ring: Remove the clip shaped like a c from the cylinder lock using the tool included in the kit.
- Remove the Key Plug: Use the pusher tool to remove the key plug from the cylinder housing.
- Replace the Pins. Remove the old pins and replace them with the new ones according to the instructions included in the kit. For precision, use the included tweezers.
- Reassemble the lock: Place the pins into the key plug and slide it back into the housing. Attach the clip ring. Then, integrate the cylinder into the knob.
- Reattach the Knob. Secure the knob onto the shank to ensure the lock works smoothly with the key.
Rekeying your own lock and key system can be a cost-effective option, but it is a process that requires precision. When you are unsure about your ability or if the locks on your system are of different brands, it is best to hire a professional locksmith. If you try to rekey your locks without the right expertise, it can lead to damaged locks.
Get Consultation
Rekeying vs. Changing Locks: Key Differences
Cost:
Rekeying can be more cost-effective than changing locks, as it involves fewer materials and labor. The cost of changing locks can be high because you have to buy new locksets.
Convenience:
In most cases, rekeying is quicker and easier. Rekeying is possible if your locks are in good shape and can be rekeyed.
Security:
Both options increase security. However, upgrading to electronic or advanced locks can provide an even higher level of protection. Rekeying keeps the lock in place but makes old keys useless.
Professional Locksmith Services
A professional locksmith can assist you if you are unsure whether to change or rekey your locks. A locksmith will evaluate your current lock and key system, make recommendations for the best solution, and provide the service quickly. Locksmiths are equipped with the right tools to work on locks of all types and complexity. They can also handle locks from different brands.
Final Thoughts
Rekeying or changing your locks depends entirely on your situation, your budget and your security requirements. Rekeying can be a cost-effective way to increase security, particularly when you move into a new house or want to standardize keys. Change locks is a great way to upgrade old hardware or replace it with newer, more secure hardware.
One of the best investments you can ever make is to take steps to protect your home. Understanding the benefits of changing and rekeying locks will help you make an informed choice to protect your home and family.
