Should You Have Your Lock ReKeyed?

If you've ever moved into a new place, misplaced your house keys, or had to dismiss an employee, you've definitely thought about changing your locks. Most individuals are unaware that re-keying their locks is a far better and frequently less expensive option than replacing them. In this essay, we'll explain what it means to re-key locks and, more significantly, when you should rekey rather than replace your locks. You may wonder why this is significant because it can help you save a huge amount of money. Some locksmiths take advantage of the fact that most people are unaware of the differences, and rather than explaining the differences to the customer, they choose the more expensive alternative.

Changing locks or rekeying locks 

While changing a lock, or replacing an old lock with a new one, is self-explanatory, rekeying locks requires a little more explanation. Rekeying a lock entails changing the lock's functioning key to a different key without replacing the lock. To put it another way, the lock remains the same, but the old key will no longer open it. This is accomplished by dismantling the lock and replacing some of the internal components (known as "tumblers" or "key pins"). Each key pin in your lock corresponds to a different key. When you replace those pins with new ones, you're effectively creating a new key that will operate the lock. Even while it may appear difficult, it's a simple technique that shouldn't take more than a few minutes if you have the necessary instruments.

Current keys are necessary

A locksmith must have the lock's current matching key to rekey it. The only method to rekey the lock without the corresponding key is to pick it open. Typically it is not a problem for experienced locksmiths but can result in additional fees that make it more expensive than replacing the lock entirely.

Rekeying a lock does not affect the lock's security or make it more secure. The number of pins inside a lock is one of the elements that determine its security. As long as the locksmith replaces the old 5 pins with 5 new ones, the lock will stay secure. Replacing your locks with new, higher-security locks is the way to go if you want to boost their security.

Cost 

Rekeying is almost always less expensive than having your locks changed due to the incredibly low cost of key pins in locks. You just pay for labor when you have your locks rekeyed; when you have your locks changed, you pay for both labor and parts. 

Keep in mind that all locks can be rekeyed built-in, so you won't have to worry about whether your locks are rekeyable or not. However, the procedure for rekeying various locks is not always the same and frequently necessitates the use of different instruments. Going for rekeying your locks instead of changing them is a better solution. 

How does rekeying work? 

Rekeying some high-security locks, such as "Medeco" and "Mul-T-Lock," for example, necessitates a specific set of tools and key pins.

Not only is rekeying used to replace an old key but it can also be used to match numerous locks using the same key. If your property has numerous locks, each with a different key, which can be inconvenient, you may wish to rekey locks so that they all match the same key. Keep in mind that two or more locks must be of the same brand or have the same sort of keyholes to match for one key. If your key fits in one lock but not the other, it means the keyholes (or "keyways") aren't the same, and you can't match them.

The following are the two most typical reasons for rekeying your locks:

1. If you like your locks but want to change the key so that the previous one no longer works. Consider the following scenario:

If you've recently moved into a new location and aren't sure who else has the key.

You've misplaced a duplicate of your key and are concerned that it will be discovered.

You don't want someone with the key to be able to get in.

2. When you have multiple keys for various locks and want them to all match the same key. 

Replacing locks 

1. You wish to change the color or pattern of your locks. If you recently moved into a new property and your locks are old and corroded, you may wish to replace them with newer, more attractive locks.

2. When you wish to improve your security by switching to high-security or electronic locks.

If you have one or more locks installed but don't have the keys, you'll need to weigh the cost of a new lock against the cost of rekeying them without a key (which involves additional labor) to determine which option is the most cost-effective. 

It's worth noting that if you have your locks replaced, the locksmith should be able to provide you with at least a couple of locks and keys. Most hardware retailers will also match your locks for free when you make a purchase.

Wrapping up

Some newer types of locks allow you to quickly rekey them yourself without having to disassemble them or call a locksmith. As technology advances, certain locks, such as the Kwikset SmartKey and Schlage SecureKey, are becoming more popular, but they still have problems. So, if rekeying a lock isn't something you do frequently, we recommend keeping your current locks on your door for the time being and calling professional locksmiths for the same. 

Rekey locks or replacing locks also depends on what kind of needs or security you want. Always take expert advice first before doing anything. The group of Desert Locksmith will help you with any lock-related problems at the best prices. They are best in their work and provide services 24*7, so you can call them out for any emergency lock services too.