Rekeying a lock lets you change the key needed to open it without buying new hardware. You will need a lock-specific rekeying kit (e.g., Kwikset or Schlage) matching your lock’s brand, basic hand tools, and the new key.
Yes, you can absolutely rekey your own locks. Doing it yourself is a highly approachable DIY project that allows you to keep your existing hardware while changing the key, saving you the cost of hiring a professional locksmith.
When you change a lock, you or a locksmith will replace the old locking door hardware, giving you all new locks and all new keys. But changing your locks is usually more expensive than rekeying, and it isn't always necessary. You should only change your locks if: You need new ones—your locks are old and wearing out.
You can get locks professionally rekeyed.
Home Depot generally charges about $𝟓 to $𝟐𝟎 per lock cylinder to rekey a lock. However, pricing and availability are determined on a store-by-store basis. Many locations perform the service entirely for free if you buy the new lock in-store.
Bring in your deadbolt or door knob for repair, replacement, or re-keying service. Get new keys made for your home, car or truck. Purchase pre-cut lumber for projects, saving time and money. Choose the perfect colors to match your style and decor.
Rekeying is generally the lowest-cost way to secure your home. Most lock-updating services cost around $15–$50 per cylinder, depending on the number of locks and whether you already have an existing key.
It typically takes a professional locksmith 10 to 30 minutes to rekey a single standard lock. If you are having a full house done, expect the entire appointment to take about an hour or more, as the per-lock time usually improves due to efficiency.
WHAT KEYS CANNOT BE COPIED?
The benefits of creating your spare key using one of these convenient kiosks are: 50% cheaper than a dealership key costs. Works to create spare keys, not replacement keys, for most major car brands. Conveniently located at your local Lowe's store.
Most standard locks can be rekeyed, but not all of them. Locks with pin-and-tumbler cylinders, deadbolts, and knob locks are commonly rekeyed. However, keyless locks, damaged locks, and those without removable cylinders cannot be rekeyed.
Rekeying locks may be covered only if the rekeying is required after a covered incident, such as a burglary or theft. For example: If thieves steal your keys during a break-in, insurance may pay to rekey or replace the locks to restore security.
A traditional pin tumbler lock can be rekeyed multiple times, practically as long as the internal components remain in good working condition. There is no strict numerical limit; it is limited by the physical wear of the lock cylinder itself, not the act of rekeying. Special "SmartKey" locks can be rekeyed an unlimited number of times.
Yes, you can rekey a lock without the original key, but the process depends entirely on the type of lock you have.
The easiest locks to rekey yourself feature specialized cylinders that let you change keys in seconds using a special tool, completely eliminating the need for a locksmith or taking the lock apart.
You should rekey a lock whenever its current security is compromised or when you want to update who has access without paying for entirely new hardware. Rekeying involves changing the internal pins so old keys no longer work, while keeping your existing, functioning lock on the door.
Home Depot offers key duplication services for a range of standard keys, with prices typically between $4 and $10 depending on the key blank. They can duplicate house keys, business keys, and padlock keys from popular brands like Yale, Master Lock, and American Lock.
Yes, Lowe's does offer lock rekeying services both in-store and, depending on your location, via onsite locksmith partners. If you purchase compatible lock brands, such as Kwikset and Schlage, the store's key cutting and rekeying service can often be done on the same day.
Minute Key is an automated, self-service kiosk that duplicates house, office, and padlock keys. It uses robotics and laser scanning to cut precision duplicates. You can find these kiosks at major retailers like Walmart, Lowe's, and The Home Depot.
The law permits ownership of skeleton keys; however, using them to access properties without consent is unlawful. Professional locksmiths in Morrow, GA need skeleton keys to work on certain locks, such as old wedged locks, remodel homes, or fix locks when keys get lost or damaged.
The engraved message found on many business keys is not legally binding – it's just a recommendation. Though many chain hardware stores, such as Ace, may refuse to cut a copy of these keys, a locksmith can easily duplicate them.
The basic types of keys include primary keys, foreign keys, candidate keys, super keys, alternate keys, composite keys, unique keys, and secondary keys. Each key has a specific function for data relationships and data integrity.
Key bumping (or lock bumping) is a covert lock-picking technique that uses a specially modified key (a "bump key") to quickly unlock standard pin-tumbler locks. It relies on kinetic energy to force the lock's internal pins to jump out of the way, allowing the door to open in seconds.
Lock Mechanism Failed – If the lock has failed or attacked & is fully locked or doubled locked, the locksmith may need to drill to open the lock. Last Resort – If the locksmith has tried to pick, bump, rake, bypass and all has failed then drilling the lock is a last resort normally.
Lockpicking is generally legal in the US as a hobby or profession, but possession of lockpicks can become illegal if you have criminal intent or cannot prove lawful purpose. It is legal to own tools and practice on your own locks, but carrying them in public, particularly in a car, can be classified as possession of "burglary tools".