While the process of changing a door lock is relatively simple, there are few tips and tricks that will ensure your new front door lock works like a charm for years to come. We've laid out a step-by-step guide to changing your door lock, with all the tools and materials you'll need to get the job done right.
Changing your locks is an easy DIY project. This home improvement project doesn't take very long and only requires a handful of tools.
Rekeying a lock is a common task for a locksmith, and this simple project only takes about 30 minutes to complete. The only tools you'll need to rekey your lock yourself are a rekey kit and the current key to the lock. This saves considerable money, especially when you need to access multiple locks with the same key.
New, upgraded locks provide extra safety and comfort by knowing your home is protected. It costs between $45 and $500 to change a door lock, including the door hardware and labor. However, specific costs will vary based on door type, the number of locks installed, and additional lock features.
Rekeying is usually cheaper, and it still provides you with a renewed sense of security. If you move into a new home or if your key is lost or stolen, rekeying your lock will almost always suffice. If your lock mechanism is beginning to deteriorate, however, consider changing the lock.
How long does it take to change a lock on a door? On average changing one lock takes around 30 minutes, but this time may change depending on the type of door, make of lock, condition of your door and other variables. A reputable Locksmith will discuss how long they think the job should take before starting any work.
We rekey Kwikset and Schlage locks at a fraction of the price of having to replace your locksets. We can also create a 'master key' for superintendents or landlords that need access to multiple units without carrying a hundred keys. We also key Masterlock padlocks to an existing Masterlock key.
Replacing a lock is self-explanatory: the locksmith changes your old lock with a new one. Rekeying, on the other hand, is a bit different – the locksmith replaces the working key of the lock but keeps the same lock. The lock is, however, taken apart and some parts inside are replaced (the “key pins” or “tumblers”).
You must buy a kit for each brand of lock in your home. (If you're lucky, they'll all be the same brand!) Each kit will re-key six locks, but you can order extra pins if you need to do more. The kit will work on entrance and deadbolt locks, and it comes with two keys and all the tools you'll need except a screwdriver.
While you get the keys to your new home at the closing, you can't know how many copies of the keys the previous owners had made and how many might still be floating around. That's why it's important to have the locks changed out.
Most locksmiths advise that a door lock should be changed once every seven years.
Any time you replace exterior door hardware, it is helpful to know your keying options. Most exterior locks purchased in-store come with a unique key. That means if you purchase multiple exterior locks at once, they will each have a different key required for access.
Yes, it is possible for you to rekey a lock without the original key. A locksmith can change your locks even if you have lost or misplaced the original key. In general, it is possible to pick or shim the lock and unlock the door. Then, the locksmith will have a much easier time removing the lock cylinder.
If your deadbolt requires a separate key from your entry doorknob, you can rekey it if they are the same brand. To rekey the deadbolt, remove it from the door and repin as you do a doorknob. Make sure the bolt is out and remove the screws holding the deadbolt to the door.
Over time, they will need replacing so that they can function correctly, without any problems and to the latest home security standards. It is recommended that you change your locks at least every 7 years, however, you can change them more frequently for your peace of mind or to simply upgrade.
Although there are many different types of locks, today we're going to talk about rekeying a pin and tumbler lock. This is the most common and one of the easiest types of locks to rekey aside from old-school locks.
Pick the key you like the best (or have the most of) and have all the other knobs keyed to it. Remove the locks that need to be rekeyed and take them to a locksmith or a hardware store. Bring a key that works each of the locks and the key you want all the locks keyed to and give us five minutes a lock.
It's a good idea to change the door locks when you move into a new home – even if the house is new construction. You never know who had access to the home before you and whether they made a spare key.
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Deadbolt Lock? Deadbolt installation typically costs between $40 and $200, including the lock and installation equipment, but the price varies by several factors.