Is it easier to rekey or change locks?

Author: Cleora Lowe V  |  Last update: Wednesday, August 9, 2023

But, while most homeowners already have the tools they need to change locks, rekeying them can require special tools, and those can be expensive. That's why it's easier for most homeowners to hire a locksmith to rekey their locks.

Is it cheaper to replace 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.

What is the difference between rekeying and replacing locks?

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”).

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.

Should I change my locks if I lost my house keys?

Your door needs to be as solid as your security system to work hand in hand. The final verdict in the argument of whether you should get your locks changed or not after losing your keys is this: yes, you should! That's what we as professionals recommend and that's what should be done, essentially.

Is it cheaper to rekey or replace locks? | Mr. Locksmith™ Video

How often should you change your house locks?

Most locksmiths advise that a door lock should be changed once every seven years.

Should I change all 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.

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.

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.

How long does it take to rekey a door lock?

Rekeying a lock generally takes about 15 minutes, but this depends on the type of lock as well as the skills of the person working on it. The most time-consuming part of the process is removing the lock from the door – the actual rekeying is much simpler. If it's simple, should you rekey your lock yourself?

What are the benefits of rekeying?

Here's a rundown of six benefits of rekeying your door locks.
  • Fixes a Security Breach Quickly. A security breach is one of the primary reasons you should consider rekeying your door locks. ...
  • Cost-Effective. ...
  • Allows for Master Key Option. ...
  • Ability to Change Locks Frequently. ...
  • Maintains Your Home's Aesthetics. ...
  • Customized Locks.

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.

Should all house locks be keyed alike?

Having your locks keyed alike is very beneficial if you want to open & close all your door locks with one key.

Can you rekey a lock without the key?

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.

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.

How much does it cost to change a set of locks?

Change your locks.

The price range for this service is significant—from $50 to $300 overall, depending on how many locks you need changed and what types of locks you want. On a per-lock basis, the cost is between $40 and $100 for the lock itself plus another $15 to $40 per lock for labor.

Can a locksmith make all my locks the same key?

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.

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.

Should I rekey my house?

If you've moved into a new home for the first time, rekeying your locks can be an affordable way to guarantee that no one but you and your family has keys to your new home. You never know who may have obtained keys to your home from the previous owner and how many copies of those keys have been made.

How do you change locks after buying a house?

Changing Locks on a New House in 5 Steps
  1. Take an inventory of all the doors with locks in the house.
  2. Purchase new door knob lock sets at a home center. ...
  3. To change the locks, unscrew the door knob from the inside and pull the knobs apart.
  4. Insert the new knobs into the door opening.
  5. Screw the new knobs into the door.

Can I change the locks on my house to keep my wife out?

Legally, can you change the locks to keep your spouse out of the house? Yes, you legally can change the locks. Of course, you're still married, so your spouse has just as much of a right to be in the house (or apartment, or condo) as you do. This means your spouse can get a locksmith to pick the lock and get back in.

How long does it take to change locks on a house?

Replacing door locks is a relatively simple DIY project. If you know your way around a basic screwdriver, you should be able to tackle it in under an hour. Full installation instructions come with the new locks and customer support hotlines are often available to answer any questions.

How long does it take to change locks on a house door?

Generally, it takes a professional locksmith between 10 and 40 minutes to rekey a lock. If you need multiple locks rekeyed, you'll want to plan accordingly as a locksmith is likely to require at least an hour for a job that requires more than one or two locks. The type of lock will impact the job.

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