Rekeying Locks 101: FAQs From Curious Customers

When most people lose a key or want to change a lock, they will contact a locksmith to have the full setup replaced. However, you can also rekey locks so that old keys no longer work. Take a look at a few things you may want to know if you decide to have your home's locks rekeyed.

Why would you want to rekey a lock?

Rekeying a lock is most often done when a key to a specific lock has been lost. When you lose a key, anyone who finds that key and knows what door it belongs to could potentially gain access to your home. By rekeying the lock, the locking mechanism and door knob look the same, but the old key will no longer work. 

Wouldn't it be easier to simply replace the entire lock?

In some cases, no. It can actually be easier to rekey locks than replace the entire unit. When the full lock is replaced, the entire door knob and all of the inner components have to be removed and replaced. If you have a door knob that you prefer to keep or simply want to get the job done quicker, rekeying is a simpler solution. 

Can you rekey a lock on your own?

Rekeying a lock is not as simple as it sounds. You have to have a rekeying set with the appropriate tools for the process, which is something a locksmith normally has on hand and knows how to use. The rekeying process involves removing the cylinder from the locking setup, taking off the push pin, taking out old pins, inserting a new key, and then inserting the new pins. The lock then has to be reassembled. 

How long does it take to rekey a lock?

For a skilled locksmith, it only takes a few minutes to rekey a lock. In most cases, property owners will be rekeying several locks, which can naturally take a bit longer. The duration of the project can vary depending on the type of locks each known has and what tools the professional uses to tackle the process. 

Is it more costly to rekey the lock than to replace it?

It is more cost-effective in most cases to have the locks rekeyed than to replace the full lock. With rekeying, you are only changing or replacing smaller components within the lock instead of the full setup. Therefore, you can usually save money by opting for rekeying, even if you have to hire a locksmith to take care of the job. 

If you're ready to rekey locks, reach out to a locksmith near you.