Rekey vs. Replace: What’s the Best Choice for Your Home Security?

Have you ever rented a new house and then started wondering who else may possess a front door key? Kinda unsettling, right? That is why rekeying is of great importance; this is getting rid of your existing security system in your home. It does not require a lot of money to invest in getting your house a better security system. Let’s dive deep into the world of rekeying.

What Does It Mean to Rekey Locks?

Rekeying a lock means altering the mechanism inside the lock in a way that the existing key no longer operates the lock. This process doesn’t involve substitution of the lock—merely fine-tuning to accept a new key.

Why Consider Rekeying Your Locks?

• Enhancing Security: Rekeying means that the old keys are no longer usable; it therefore serves to minimize unauthorized entry.
• Cost-Effectiveness: In most cases, it will cost more to substitute a lock than it will to rekey it.
• Convenience: Some of the advantages that come with rekeying include the ability to set lock preferences, for example, having a single key open many locks.

Situations Ideal for Rekeying

• Moving into a New Home: You cannot tell who else out there could still possess spare keys from the former owner. Rekeying offers the convenience and assurance that is much needed. 
• Lost or Stolen Keys: When keys are lost, rekeying then ensures that such people are never able to use the keys to gain access.
• After a Break-In Attempt: Another reason why you may need to rekey is if someone attempted to fiddle with your locks with the intent of breaking in.

Rekeying vs. Replacing Locks

Pros of Rekeying

Rekeying is less expensive than installing new locks. And ergonomically preserves the current body and shape of the lock.

Cons of Rekeying

Rekeying doesn't upgrade the physical hardware. May not work well for damaged or old locks on the door.

Pros of Replacing Locks

Enables changes in the customary hardware, which improves security. The possibility of a style or surface of the lock to be altered.

Cons of Replacing Locks

In most cases, replacing locks is more costly than rekeying. It takes more time and Energy to change new locks.

How Does Rekeying Work?

Deeper within a standard lock cylinder, there are pins of different heights that are aligned with the grooves on your key. Rekeying is the process of replacing pins in a lock with new ones that are responsive to a new key; the lock is altered.

DIY Rekeying: Is It Feasible?

• Necessary Skills and Tools: You'll need a rekeying kit specific to your lock brand, a screwdriver, and patience.
• Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Unlock the door, then take off the lock.
2. To be able to attempt the bypassing, the following steps are done. In the first step, one is supposed to disassemble the lock cylinder.
3. Remove all the old pins by using the rekeying kit and get the new ones in place.
4. Put back the lock and put the newly made key into practice.

Remember, working with tiny pins has its challenges; one small mistake affects the lock’s security. 

When to Hire a Professional Locksmith

• Complex Lock Systems: Electronic systems or high-security locks in important buildings require expert handling.
• Ensuring Optimal Security: A professional ensures the job is done correctly, providing peace of mind and a sense of security.

Cost Implications of Rekeying

• Factors Influencing Cost: The Number of locks, lock complexity, and whether you do it yourself or hire a professional are a few of the factors that can influence the cost.
• Compared with Lock Replacement: Rekeying is typically more budget-friendly than replacing locks, especially when dealing with multiple doors.