What is the cheapest way to change locks on a house?

Author: Prof. Harrison Konopelski  |  Last update: Friday, May 29, 2026

One of the major benefits of rekeying a lock is that it is much cheaper than replacing the entire lock. The cost of rekeying a basic lock ranges from $20-$60. More complex locks might cost a bit more to rekey, but it's still a reasonably small price to pay for home security and peace of mind.

Is it cheaper to rekey or buy new locks?

Due to the extremely low price of the key pins in the locks, rekeying is almost always much cheaper than getting your locks changed.

Do I need a locksmith to change my locks?

Replacing locks can be simple, but with so many different types of locks and doors out there, it can be difficult to know what to purchase. Many homeowners choose to call a locksmith to make sure the job is done correctly.

Will 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.

Can a handyman rekey a lock?

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.

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

Does Home Depot rekey locks?

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.

Can you change the locks on your house yourself?

As it turns out, changing locks is an easy DIY project that can take less than a day to complete. Moreover, if safety is a concern, but you're limited on time, you could hire a professional locksmith to replace the locks.

How much should it cost to replace locks?

It costs around £35-£45 to replace a lock on a door, plus the price of labor. It usually costs around £350 to change all the locks in a new property, depending on how many locks there are and what type they are. Replacing a Euro Cylinder in a uPVC Door usually costs from £100-£150.

Does Lowes rekey locks?

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.

Why are locksmiths so expensive?

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.

Do you tip a locksmith?

The short answer to whether you should tip a locksmith is that it is not required, but it is appreciated. Unlike restaurant staff, locksmiths don't rely on tips to make up a bulk of their pay.

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

Changing a door lock is a relatively simple DIY project for the average homeowner. Only a couple of tools are needed, and it can be done in about 30 minutes. The cost to change a lock depends on the hardware you purchase.

Do you get a new key when you rekey a lock?

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.

What is the cheapest way to change locks?

Rekeying is less expensive than replacing a lock, but rekeying a damaged or worn lock won't solve the issue; the failing mechanism will still be there. In this situation, it's best to bite the bullet and replace the entire lock.

Can you replace a door knob and keep the same key?

Can i buy a new door knob and program it to use my existing key so I don't have to get new keys? It used to be that, if you owned a certain brand of knob, you could remove the lock cylinder from the old one and insert in the new one. But this is likely no longer possible, without special tools.

Does homeowners insurance cover replacement locks?

Yes, a home insurance policy will normally cover the cost of repairing or replacing your locks to secure your home – you'll have to pay the excess on your policy. Sometimes, dedicated key cover policies won't charge an excess, though.

Is it better to rekey or change locks?

Rekeying makes more sense than a lock change if: All your locks are the same brand or have the same type of keyhole, but use different keys. Rekeying your locks will make them all operate from the same key. You've lost a copy of your old key, and you're afraid someone will find it and get into your home.

Can a handyman change locks?

Replacing Locks

Hiring a skilled handyman for door repair and installation services like painting, lock replacement, door frame repair, screen replacement, handle repair, and more will ensure your home's security, comfort, and energy efficiency.

Is it common to change locks after buying a house?

The Previous Owners Did Not Hand Over All the Keys

There is no telling how many keys to your new home are floating around out there. The best way to protect your house, family, and belongings is by changing the locks as soon as possible after you take possession.

Do you need a locksmith to change house locks?

Attempting a DIY lock change can result in damage to both the door and the lock mechanism, compromising your home's security and potentially leading to costly repairs. A professional locksmith will have the tools and expertise to ensure everything is done correctly and efficiently.

How much does it cost to clone a key at Home Depot?

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.

Previous article
Can I rake my lawn in summer?
Next article
How do you calculate pipe line capacity?