Is it hard to rekey a lock yourself?

Author: Dr. Kris McCullough  |  Last update: Wednesday, January 10, 2024

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.

Can I rekey a lock myself?

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.

Can I rekey a lock without the original 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.

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.

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?

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

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 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 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.

What do I do if I lost the key to my door lock?

Contact a locksmith. If you have lost your only set of house keys, key replacement is your only option. You will need to get in touch with a reputable and experienced local locksmith who will be able to make you a new key. A skilled locksmith will create a key to lock by hand, without needing the original key.

What is a rekeying kit?

A lock rekey kit is exactly what you might imagine. It is a kit that can be used to change the locks in an organization, without having to call a locksmith. There are no tools required, no hardware removal, and you do not have to have the expertise of a locksmith to perform a rekey.

Are all locks able to be rekeyed?

To rekey locks to use the same key, all of them must be from the same manufacturer. You can't rekey a Kwikset lock to use a Schlage key because each maker's locks have different size holes that will only accept their own keys.

What is a 999 key?

Bump keys are specially cut keys that can bypass the security mechanisms built into traditional pin and tumbler locks. Bump keys are also referred to as “999 keys” because all of their ridges are cut to the maximum depth (999) in a key-making machine.

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!

Can Lowes make a key from a lock?

The answer to the question of does Lowes make keys is a resounding yes. That being said, there are a few things to bear in mind before you head out to the store. Lowe's will do them quickly and cheaply if you want simple keys copied. The process will be a little longer and more costly for more complicated keys.

What is the difference between rekeying and changing 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”).

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 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.

Is it illegal to have a double keyed deadbolt?

Fire codes in some homes prohibit the use of double-keyed deadbolts on egress doors. In rental houses, it's crucial to take into account the liability of using double-keyed deadbolts. Before installing such a lock, be sure to check local laws.

Why use a double keyed deadbolt?

Businesses often use double-cylinder deadbolt locks because they provide more security on exterior doors that have windows. When intruders attempt to break into a building through a window, the key lock on the inside of the door will stop them from entering.

Can you just change the deadbolt?

In most cases, all you need to replace a deadbolt is a Philips head screw driver. If you are trying to install a deadbolt in a door that does not already have one, the process is more complicated, and requires the use of drills, chisels or other tools.

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