As a homeowner, at one point or another, you’re going to have to decide between rekeying vs replacing your locks. Each option has its own pros and cons and your reasons for doing one or the other will differ.
This blog outlines the different processes and why you should consider one over the other.
Rekeying vs Replacing Locks: The Process
Let’s start by looking at what happens when rekeying vs replacing locks.
Rekeying Process
Rekeying a lock involves using the existing lock but ensuring that any existing keys no longer work. To do this, your locksmith replaces the tumblers and pins so that your locks work with new keys. During this process, your locksmith will also check the general condition of the lock and lubricate it if necessary.
Rekeying a lock is more affordable because you are mostly paying for the labor and not new parts. You can expect to pay up to $50 to rekey a lock. It also helps if you have the existing key. A locksmith can rekey a lock without the original key, but it takes longer.
Lock Replacement Process
As the name suggests, replacing a lock means removing the entire lock mechanism and replacing it with a new one. Since this is more labor intensive and it requires new parts, you can expect to pay slightly more to replace your locks, up to $80.
Rekeying vs Replacing Locks: Which Option is Right for You?
Next, let’s look at why you would consider either rekeying vs replacing your locks.
Why Rekey
- You want one key for all locks. If you are tired of having to find the right key for one of your doors, you could rekey your locks so that they all work with the same key. Just keep in mind that the locks need to be the same brand or at least have the same type of keyhole. Basically, if you can slide the same key, but not necessarily turn it, into each lock, you can rekey them all.
- You’ve misplaced a key. Losing a key is another reason to consider rekeying. Even more so if you feel the key might be with someone who shouldn’t have it.
- You’ve recently moved. Just moved into a new home? You never quite know who has a copy of one of your keys. It’s best to have your external door locks rekeyed. The same applies if you are changing services such as cleaning or pet sitting.
Why Replace
- Your locks are old or damaged. Outdated or damaged locks are a security risk and should be replaced instead of rekeyed.
- You want to upgrade. If there is nothing wrong with your locks but you want more security, replacing your locks means you get to upgrade.
- The locks are different brands/makes. If you want to have one key for all of your external doors but the locks are different brands or models, you will need to replace them.
- You’ve lost the original key. If you no longer have the original key for a lock and picking the lock to rekey it costs more than replacing it, replacement is the better choice.
Now that you have a better understanding of rekeying vs replacing locks, you can contact Cape Coral Locksmith on +1 239 349 2245 for assistance.
