Re Keying & Changing Locks

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When it comes to securing your home or business, one of the most important decisions you can make is whether to rekey your locks or change them entirely. Both options have their advantages, but understanding the differences can help you make an informed decision about which one suits your needs. As a trusted locksmith, we often get asked by homeowners, business owners, and property managers about the benefits of rekeying versus changing locks, especially when it comes to cost-effectiveness and convenience. Let’s break it down to see how these two options compare.

Rekeying a lock involves altering the internal mechanism of the lock so that it works with a new key. This means the old key will no longer open the lock, but the lock itself stays in place. Essentially, a locksmith will replace the pins inside the lock cylinder to match a new key, rendering the old key useless. Rekeying is often a quick and inexpensive solution when you want to secure your property but don’t want to go through the hassle or expense of a full lock change.

A lock change, on the other hand, is a more extensive procedure. When you change a lock, the entire locking mechanism is replaced, including the lock hardware and the cylinder. This typically involves installing a completely new lock and set of keys, ensuring that no one can use the old key to gain access to your property. A lock change can provide an extra level of security, especially if the existing lock is outdated or damaged.

1. Cost-Effective Solution: One of the most significant benefits of rekeying is the cost savings. A rekey typically costs much less than a full lock change, making it an ideal solution for individuals or businesses on a budget. Instead of purchasing new locks and paying for installation, you only need to pay for the rekeying service itself, which is cheaper and faster. If you're looking for a cheap yet effective security option, rekeying is often the best choice.
2. Time-Saving: Rekeying is generally a much quicker process than changing locks. A professional locksmith can often rekey a lock in just a few minutes, whereas changing a lock requires removing the old hardware, installing the new one, and ensuring everything is properly aligned and functioning. If you need to secure your property quickly, rekeying is a time-efficient solution that gets the job done in a fraction of the time.
3. Preserving Existing Hardware: If your current locks are in good condition and still function properly, rekeying allows you to keep the existing hardware. This can be especially beneficial if you have high-quality or expensive locks that you don't want to replace unnecessarily. Rekeying enables you to maintain the integrity of your existing security system while still ensuring that only authorized individuals have access to your property.
4. Ideal for Lost or Stolen Keys: If your keys are lost, stolen, or if you suspect that someone has unauthorized access to them, rekeying is a smart solution. Rather than worrying about who might have a copy of your old key, rekeying ensures that no one can use the lost or stolen key to enter your property. This added peace of mind is invaluable when it comes to protecting your home or business.
5. Convenience: For those who are moving into a new home or office, rekeying provides a quick way to ensure that you have full control over who has access to your space. You can have all the locks in your building rekeyed to a single key, making it more convenient to carry fewer keys while still maintaining security.

1. Enhanced Security: Changing locks is a great option if you want to upgrade the security of your property. If your current locks are old, worn out, or compromised in any way, a lock change will provide you with a brand-new, secure locking system. Newer locks often come with advanced security features, such as anti-picking mechanisms, that make them harder for burglars to bypass.
2. Better Protection After Break-Ins: If you’ve experienced a break-in or attempted burglary, changing locks is often recommended. Even if the intruder didn’t manage to enter your property, you can’t be sure if they’ve made copies of your keys or tampered with your locks in any way. A complete lock change gives you the assurance that your security system has not been compromised and that your property is fully protected.
3. Customization and Upgrades: A lock change is also an opportunity to upgrade your security system. You can choose from a variety of modern lock options, such as smart locks, keyless entry systems, or high-security deadbolts. These upgrades offer enhanced features, such as remote access, audit trails, and additional layers of security that rekeying simply cannot provide.
4. Durability: While rekeying is an excellent solution for many situations, changing the lock ensures that you have a new locking mechanism that is likely to be more durable and secure. If your locks are old or showing signs of wear and tear, a lock change can provide a fresh start and extend the lifespan of your security system.

Rekeying is typically the best option when:

• You need to secure your property on a budget.
• Your locks are still in good condition but you want to prevent unauthorized access.
• You’ve lost your keys, had them stolen, or had a tenant move out and want to limit access.
• You don’t want to replace the hardware but need a new key for your existing locks.

Changing locks may be the better option when:

• Your locks are outdated, damaged, or compromised.
• You want to upgrade your security with advanced features.
• You’ve experienced a break-in or suspect a serious security threat.
• You want a fresh start with new hardware.

Choosing between rekeying and changing locks ultimately depends on your specific situation. If you’re looking for a cheap and effective way to secure your home or business without the need to replace all your hardware, rekeying is a fast, cost-effective solution that offers peace of mind. However, if you’re looking for a more long-term option, or if your existing locks are old or damaged, a full lock change may be the best choice.

As an experienced locksmith, we understand that security is a top priority, and we’re here to help you assess your needs and provide the best solution. Whether you choose to rekey or change locks, we can guide you through the process and ensure that your property is protected with the right security measures.

Don’t hesitate to contact us for expert advice or service on rekeying, lock changes, or any other locksmith needs!