Can you rekey a door knob lock?

Author: Dr. Edgar Koepp  |  Last update: Saturday, September 23, 2023

Most common door locks can be rekeyed, but if you have lost the original key or the lock is broken, the lock will need to be replaced. Do you need the original key to rekey a lock? Yes, the original key is necessary to use a rekey kit when rekeying a lock.

Is it cheaper to replace door locks or rekey?

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.

Can existing door locks be rekeyed?

Rekeying Your Locks

Some locksmiths may tell you that you should change your locks. But in many cases, you can just rekey them, which means changing the existing lock system so a new key operates it. A locksmith simply replaces the tumblers and pins to create a lock that can be opened by a brand-new key.

Can Ace hardware rekey locks?

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.

Is it hard to rekey a lock yourself?

If you have a traditional pin and tumbler lock, rekeying isn't as difficult as it sounds. First, you'll need to purchase a rekey kit for the brand of lock you have. The kit should contain various tools to aid in the lock's removal and a set of different sized pins.

How to rekey a lock 101

How long does a rekey take?

You may choose this service for various reasons, like if you lose your house key and are worried about a stranger gaining entry. In any case, it will likely take the locksmith around 10 to 40 minutes to rekey each lock since they will be replacing the old lock pins with new ones.

What are the easiest locks to rekey?

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.

Can Kwikset door knobs be rekeyed?

Re-keying a new lock to match an existing Kwikset key is simple and easy. And all Kwikset pin & tumbler locks can be re-keyed to achieve convenient one-key operation across multiple locks. All you need is a Kwikset Re-keying Kit, a Kwikset key, and a pin & tumbler lock.

Can I get all my locks keyed the same?

As long every lock in your home is the same type then yes. If your locks are different, they will have to be changed in order to use the same keys for all of them.

What kind of door locks can be rekeyed?

Can all door locks be rekeyed? Most common door locks can be rekeyed, but if you have lost the original key or the lock is broken, the lock will need to be replaced.

Do you need the original key to rekey a lock?

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.

How do you rekey an old door lock?

How to Rekey Door Locks
  1. Remove the Door Knob. ...
  2. Remove the Cylinder Lock. ...
  3. Remove the Clip Ring. ...
  4. Remove the Key Plug. ...
  5. Remove the Old Pins. ...
  6. Insert the New Pins. ...
  7. Reinsert the Plug. ...
  8. Reattach the Clip Ring.

When should you rekey a lock?

These are a few situations where you should rekey your locks:
  1. Whenever a key has been lost.
  2. Whenever a key has been stolen.
  3. If you have moved recently into a new home or office space.
  4. If there's been a staffing change in your organization.
  5. If a house member or roommate has moved out.

How much does it cost to rekey a deadbolt lock?

In general, prices average between $20 and $50 for a single lock and can cost up to $130 for a house. However, if you call a locksmith out on an emergency you can expect it to cost an extra $100 to $150. If you need to rekey your vehicle the price ranges from $75 to $180 for most locksmith companies.

Should you change the locks after buying a house?

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.

Does Ace Hardware rekey deadbolts?

Do you have too many keys to get into your house? For $10.00 each, our qualified staff will rekey your Schlage, Kwikset, or Ace brand doorknob or deadbolt. If you have a newer Kwikset lock it may use SmartKey technology, which makes re-keying quick and easy. We'll gladly show you how to rekey those locks for free!

How safe are Kwikset SmartKey locks?

All SmartKey cylinders feature ANSI Grade 1 security, are bump-proof and highly pick resistant while also passing the most stringent security standards, UL 437, par 11.6 & 11.7.

Can you rekey a Kwikset lock more than once?

Unlimited amount of times. All you need is the Smarkey Security tool.

How long does a Kwikset lock last?

Replace batteries with new ones to ensure that lock is properly powered. Typical battery life based on 10 entries per day is 10-12 months if the door is properly aligned and the lock does not encounter interference in lock/unlocking the door.

What is the most common key lock?

Pin-and-tumbler locks are the most common type of lock used on most doors. This style of lock uses a stack of pins and springs to keep the door closed, so when you turn the key it pushes each pin up and out of the way in order to unlock it.

What is an alternative to key locks?

A convenient alternative is an electronic lock: In the middle ground between traditional keyed locks and fully connected smart locks, these keyless locks open with a code entered on a touchscreen or a keypad.

Can you buy multiple door knobs with same key?

Benefits of a Single Key

When purchasing more than one lock, look for packages that have the same “key alike” number on the package. Alternatively, our store associates can key all of your locks to work with the same key. You can also purchase a rekeying kit to swap out pins and springs yourself.

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