When you move into an owned before home or misplace your home keys, perhaps you want to use one key for all your locks or aim to enhance the security of your door locks, your first thought might be to change the locks. However there’s an option that is overlooked – Rekeying.
Rekeying tends to be a common choice and also potentially more cost effective compared to completely replacing your lock system. Lets explore the differences between rekeying and replacing locks and when it might be more beneficial to go for lock rekey instead of lock replacement.
Rekeying vs. Changing Locks: Understanding the Distinction
When you decide to change the locks in your home it means that a locksmith will replace the lock and give you a new key. The cost of this process can vary depending on the type of locks as it includes both labor fees and the purchasing a new lock.
On the other hand rekeying locks is a technique where the lock keys are replaced while keeping the existing locking mechanism. In this case the technician take apart the lock, and replace its tumblers ( the pins ) inside the lock. These tumblers or key pins are parts inside the lock that align with the grooves on your key to lock and unlock the door. Essentially once these pins have been modified your old key will no longer work, and a new key will be made by the locksmith technician.
The Cost of Rekeying a Lock
Rekeying a lock is often a better cost effective option compared to replacing it, since there is no need to buy a new lock system. The only expenses involved are the locksmiths labor fees. Given that an experienced locksmith can rekey a lock within minutes the associated costs are relatively low.
Rekeying a Lock
Changing a lock requires the tools and expertise. A skilled locksmith uses a rekey-kit to replace the pins of a lock. It’s important to note that if you want a quick and efficient process you’ll need to provide a key to the locksmith, otherwise the locksmith will have to pick the lock, which may result in charges for their time and effort. In those cases its recommended to discuss with the locksmith whether it would be more cost effective to replace the lock instead of rekey it.
While it is possible for you to purchase a rekey-kit and attempt the task yourself, it’s crucial to consider that these kits can be quite expensive and cost over $200. Moreover if you make any mistakes during the rekeying process there is a risk of damaging the lock and needing a new one. If you don’t possess the expertise in rekeying locks it is highly advisable to rely on a certified locksmith who possesses both the appropriate tools and skills required for the task.
Changing Locks
When it comes to enhancing the security of your locks it makes sense to consider swapping them for superior options. Rekeying just changes the key while keeping the existing lock intact. However if you’re aiming to bolster your homes security it’s advisable to replace the locking mechanism.
There are situations where lock replacement becomes essential. For example when your locks start deteriorating due to wear and tear or following an attempted break-in. In both scenarios it is strongly recommended to replace the locks. Additionally you might also want to consider changing your locks as part of a home remodeling project to upgrade the appearance of your doors.
In Conclusion
If you feel confident in the security of your door locks but have quite few concerns about the key, rekeying is a cost solution. For example if you’re moving into an owned house and aren’t sure who might have keys or if you’ve misplaced a set of keys and worry they may have landed in the wrong hands rekeying is a sensible option. The same applies if you know someone has a key and no longer want to grant them access.
