To change a lock so that it fits an existing key, you simply work in the opposite direction: You change the pattern of the pins in the lock so that it matches the pattern of notches in the key. If the lock is designed with a universal keying system, any locksmith can re-key the lock in no time.
You can head to your local hardware store and buy all key 'keyed alike' locks where all you need is one key and you can open each lock you buy. While this is going to be the most expensive option, if you don't know much about rekeying locks or making new keys, this is going to be the easiest solution for you.
Lock rekeying is the process of altering a lock's internal components to work with a new key while keeping the existing lock hardware. This involves changing the pins or wafers inside the lock cylinder, which are the parts that interact with the key to allow it to, or prevent it from, turning.
If you're looking to get better security of your locks, changing them to new, higher security ones will be the way to go. Due to the extremely low price of the key pins in the locks, rekeying is almost always much cheaper than getting your locks changed.
You can rekey locks to match existing keys when the locks have the same keyway. To test if they are the same keyway, take the key you want to use, and see if it slides into the keyhole of the new lock. If it slides in, the new door lock can be rekeyed to use the same key.
To change a lock so that it fits an existing key, you simply work in the opposite direction: You change the pattern of the pins in the lock so that it matches the pattern of notches in the key. If the lock is designed with a universal keying system, any locksmith can re-key the lock in no time.
Can I have every lock in my home Keyed Alike? 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.
Changing a Yale lock typically costs around £100 during normal business hours. If it's an emergency, most locksmiths will charge a call-out fee ranging from £50 to £150. These figures represent typical costs, but the actual cost of your lock replacement project may vary based on several crucial factors.
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.
Lowes won't rekey an old lock you carry in, you have to buy it right there. ... unless you get an employee in a good mood that feels like helping. They use the 5 digit code on your key to know what pins to put in the lock.
If you know the brand or keyhole style of your locks, you may be able to buy a lock rekeying kit from your local home hardware store. But while you might have the tools to change locks, rekeying them can require special—and expensive—tools. You can buy them as a kit, then follow the instructions.
A rekey service can take between 10 and 40 minutes per lock. Rekeying only applied to keyed security locks, and not to privacy locks found on bathroom and bedroom doorknobs. New lock installation or replacement can take 30-60 minutes per lock, which is one reason that lock replacement is more expensive.
Find the key cut number on your new key, a series of numbers used to indicate the cuts or depth of your key. Insert the new key into the cylinder and locate the right pins of your lock using the rekey kit map, matching it to the key cut number. Insert the correct numbered pin into their corresponding holes.
Unlimited amount of times.
In a nutshell, “keyed alike” is the term used by locksmiths to describe multiple locks having the same internal pattern so that a single key can be used on them. You either purchase a set of door locks that are already keyed alike or have your current ones retrofitted and rekeyed.
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.
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.
Most Home Depot's have an associate on staff that can rekey door locks. Call your local Home Depot and make sure that the person that does the rekeying service is there before you arrive. Also there may be a charge for this service.
To rekey locks, you or a handyman professional have to remove the key cores from the locking hardware and replace them with lock patterns that match new keys. This sounds simple but actually is time-consuming and can get costly, as you have to pay for labor and buy new equipment.
Yes, with the right tools and this step-by-step guide, you can install a mortice lock yourself.
Banham security locks are made from trademarked cylinders and cannot be accessed by various keys. Banham locks are premium products that comply with BS3621 and the latest insurance and security regulations. Banham is made from 6 pin drill resistant cylinders and wholly different from other ordinary locks.
Specialized Training and Skills
Locksmiths undergo extensive training to learn their trade. They must be skilled in working with all these various types of locks and security systems, from traditional mechanical locks to modern electronic key systems.
The phrase “do not copy” or “do not duplicate” means the key is restricted, either fitted by a landlord or owner of the property and is to stop copies being reproduced. Only a key that has a patent can truly be said to be restricted.
However, the Yale uses the same key as kwikset, so you can use the key from the Yale lock you purchase and rekey your kwikset locks to match it.
The most common locks to key alike are the front door, back door, side door, and garage door. However, it is also possible to key alike the rest of the locks in your home as long as they are within the same brand.