A sturdy lock is the first line of defense and, as a homeowner, provides you with the ultimate peace of mind – However, what if your locks are older or failing, or you have recently been the victim of a burglary?
Changing your locks is a huge undertaking, and unfortunately, if you are replacing several locks across your property, it can get pretty expensive.
There has to be a cheaper solution, right – Did you know there is another option that is more cost-effective than a total lock change and, in many cases, just as safe and secure?
Rekeying involves swapping out specific vital components inside the lock and, in most cases, is far less expensive than completely swapping out your locks.
However, is it always appropriate or safe to rekey locks- Before you contact a McKinney locksmith or Fairview locksmith, here is some information about the difference between rekeying and replacing locks and which is the right option for you in your unique situation:
Rekeying Vs. Changing Locks: What’s the Difference?
If you have ever called locksmith companies in the past, chances are you were either changing your locks or needed to regain entry into your home or vehicle after locking yourself out.
You’re familiar with changing locks, but what exactly does lock rekeying entail – Changing your locks involves completely removing the entire lock and replacing it with a new model.
When you rekey locks, you are only replacing critical components of the lock, namely the pins or the cylinders – The main body of the existing lock remains intact, but your old key will no longer work on the lock.
Pros and Cons of Rekeying Locks
Replacing critical components of the lock mechanism can save you money, but what are the other pros and cons of rekeying locks rather than having the entire lock replaced?
- Rekeying your locks is a very quick and easy process: In comparison to a complete replacement, rekeying can be accomplished in a matter of minutes.
- Rekeying is not appropriate if the lock is broken: Unfortunately, if several internal components are damaged, rekeying will fix the issue, and you will still have a broken lock.
- Your security might be compromised: The average life of a traditional house lock is around seven years, and if the locks are older, having them rekeyed is not appropriate if the door lock is much older.
- Avoid rekeying your own locks: Rekeying kits are available at your local hardware or home improvement store, but they should be avoided because it takes the right skills, tools, and experience to determine if rekeying is not only appropriate but also completes the job successfully.
Having trouble deciding if you should replace or rekey a lock – A locksmith in Frisco, TX, or a Plano locksmith are the most significant sources of information and tips about protecting your home and family.
When Does It Make Sense to Rekey and Keep the Same Lock?
You would be amazed at how many people assume that changing the locks is the only option available.
In most cases, it is actually safe and economically prudent to choose to rekey your locks over a total replacement, including:
- You lost your keys: Mistakes happen, and if you lose your house keys, it is better to err on the side of caution and have a professional Allen locksmith rekey your locks.
- Your keys were stolen: Theft happens, and if your keys are stolen, don’t assume the burglars don’t know where you live – air on the side of caution and have your doors rekeyed.
- You recently moved into a new home: The former owners have seemingly handed over every working key to your new house – but this isn’t always the case because they still may have a current matching key.
- You are a landlord, and your tenant recently moved: Always have the locks rekeyed on your rental property after the tenant moves out.
- You broke up with your boyfriend/girlfriend: Breakups are never easy, especially if you live together. Protect yourself from a vengeful ex-partner and rekey your locks.
- You own Airbnb and Vrbo rental properties: Did a recent renter leave with a key – Save money and preserve your peace of mind by hiring a locksmith.
Did you recently move into a new home that requires multiple keys – Rekeying the locks throughout your property will literally lighten the load on your keychain and allow you to access every door with the same key.
What Is Involved in Rekeying Locks?
Did you know the average cost to re-key a single lock is between $35 to $65, according to this comprehensive and helpful rekeying cost guide?
Once again, rekeying involves replacing crucial parts inside the lock rather than the entire lock itself -For most people and in most circumstances, rekeying is the better option – but what exactly is involved?
The Lock Cylinder is Removed
With the lock rekeying kit in hand, your locksmith will begin by removing the knob and pulling out the lock cylinder. Next, a specialized device is used to push the key plug out of the housing.
The Tumblers and Key Pins Are Replaced
The old pins are removed before a new key is inserted into the lock. The locksmith swaps out the old pins for a new set and installs them according to a chart that came with the rekeying kit.
The Lock Cylinder is Reinstalled, and You Are Handed A New Key!
The last step is to reinstall the cylinder, reassemble the rest of the lock, and hand you the one key that will work with the lock.
Remember, the original key will no longer work. If you require different keys for the rest of your family, our residential locksmith in McKinney can easily make you several duplicates!
Under What Circumstances Should I Change the Door Locks?
The rekeying process is safe, straightforward, fast, and affordable – but is it the right option in every circumstance?
There are several times when it is the better option to change your locks completely:
- Aesthetics are essential: Why spend the money on a whole-home renovation if you are going to keep the same outdated, ugly exterior locks?
- You’re upgrading your security system: Electronic locks are convenient, add additional security, and are great if several people are accessing your home and don’t want to make several sets of keys.
- The old lock simply doesn’t work anymore: Remember, exterior locks don’t even last a decade, so if the current lock is older and damaged, it makes more sense to change locks rather than re-keying them.
- You’re upgrading to a new master key system: As a landlord or property manager, a master key system is a must-have and a great way to ensure your one key works on every property.
- The metal is severely corroded: The arid temperatures in Texas can wreak havoc on your metal locks, so if the elements cause any severe damage or corrosion, replace the locks immediately.
Seeking professional locksmith services is a small price to pay for your peace of mind – If you are concerned about the age and integrity of your current residential locks, learn more about the lock change benefits.
All Brands Aren’t Created Equal: How Do I Choose a Quality Lock Brand For My Home?
Are you ready to upgrade the locks throughout your Texas property but instantly feel overwhelmed with all the available choices – There are several different brands of door hardware available, both at your local home improvement store or your trusted Texas locksmith.
If you are happy with the same brand and its high quality, this is an excellent option because the same type of lock means one key can open all.
Here are the signs of high-quality residential locks:
- Premium materials: Look for locks with an internal mechanism made from die-cast zinc or brass and an outer casing manufactured from steel, nickel, brass, chrome, or another type of sturdy alloy – The type of metal will impact the look of the lock, so keep that in mind.
- Top brands. Choose a new residential lock or security system manufactured by some of the top brands in the industry – including Kwikset, Yale, Corbin Russwin, and Schlage.
- Quality strike pad. The strike pad is the metal component that attaches to your frame, and many homeowners overlook the importance of choosing a replacement lock with a strong strike pad.
- Check the warranty. Different manufacturers offer different warranties on both the internal and external structure – Read the warranties carefully and choose a product with a robust and comprehensive warranty on each component.
What about Features and Technology?
Upgrading to the latest smart technologies – including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi-enabled locks is convenient, safe, and will even raise the value of your property.
Here is a guide to 2023 best locks to secure your home and some of the latest and greatest exterior door technologies to consider:
- Cellphone capabilities: Want the convenience of opening and locking a door with your smartphone? Smartphone-enabled locks are great for almost anyone, especially if you have an Airbnb and want to ensure your doors are locked when the tenants are away.
- Fingerprint readers: Perfect for both residential and commercial properties; fingerprint readers are ideal if you have several people with access to a property and you don’t want to duplicate and potentially lose several sets of keys.
- Keypads: Another solution for heavy-traffic properties, the combination on a keypad can quickly and easily be changed by the owner or a qualified locksmith.
- RFID cards: Radio frequency identification technology is perfect for offices and other commercial properties.
Lock Maintenance Basics
Lock maintenance for extended lifespan is crucial to protect your investment and the people you love – Luckily, keeping your locks in tip-top condition isn’t tricky:
- Lubricate the locks at least once a year: Use a silicon-based lubricant and spray it inside the lock at least once a year – wipe off the excess with a rag and make sure the key is not damaged, as a broken key can get jammed in the lock.
- Tighten the hinges when appropriate: Watch the door hinges, and if they begin to sag or the screws are loose, use the proper screwdriver to tighten the hinges.
- Avoid putting unnecessary stress on the lock and key: Never jab the key into the lock. If you accidentally break the key in the lock, contact a pro immediately to have it extracted.
- Watch for a sagging door: A sagging door can put unnecessary strain on the lock, leading to damage and a complete replacement.
- You want the peace of mind of having new locks: If you have been the victim of a break-in before, having the locks replaced rather than opting for a re-key can often give you the sense of protection you need to feel safe again in your own home.
Watch Out For Common Locksmith Scams
Do you need a new lock or a different key? This might seem simple, but any decision that impacts the safety of your home and family must be taken very seriously.
This includes finding a reputable local locksmith that provides qualified, cost-effective options. Avoiding locksmith scams is critical and a lot easier than you might think.
Here are a few common red flags:
- They don’t come equipped with the right tools: From lock picks and plug spinners to tension wrenches and pliers – the locksmith kit should be filled with specialized equipment.
- Don’t overlook the importance of positive ratings and reviews: Check out popular rating websites – including the Better Business Bureau, Google Customer Reviews, and Thumbtack.
- The prices seem too good to be true: Be wary of extremely low prices because remember the old adage: If it’s too good to be true, it’s not!
- No physical address: Any reputable locksmith will work for a fully licensed, bonded, and heavily insured company. Be wary of fly-by-night, home-based locksmiths because they don’t have the tools, equipment, and expertise of a licensed locksmith.
- They don’t provide you with proper identification and licensing info: Don’t be afraid to ask for identification and licensing information, and be wary of any locksmith who is unwilling to provide both.
- We only accept cash upfront: Reputable locksmiths will ask for payment once the job is complete and allow you to pay in several different ways, whether it is cash, debit, credit, or by check.
Ready to Replace or Rekey Your Door Lock? Contact the Pros at Meyer’s Local Locksmith
Need the assistance of expert locksmiths in Melissa, TX? Require locksmith services in Anna, TX, to replace a single key to help you understand the difference between different brands and different locks.
In addition to residential locksmith services, we offer several other services as well, including:
- Emergency services: Are you locked out of your car in the convenience store parking lot off the 380 Bypass outside McKinney – one of our emergency locksmiths will be dispatched immediately to help you get back on the road!
- Car key replacement: From a traditional mechanical key to key fobs and transponder keys, one of our mobile locksmiths can quickly replace any type of key for far less than you would pay at the local dealership.
- Commercial services: From extracting keys from locks to replacing or upgrading your access control system – we can handle it all.
- Auto services: If your key is stuck in the ignition and you need it extracted or your ignition broke, we can help you out in both situations.
People also ask
Is it better to rekey or replace the locks?
The best answer is “It depends.” – For example, if you are moving into a new home or lost your key, rekey the lock – Changing locks is best for older locks or if you are upgrading your home’s security.
Should I rekey my new house?
Yes, you should always rekey the locks on your new home and don’t rely on the integrity of the former owners.
What are the benefits of rekeying?
The benefits to rekeying your locks are seemingly endless and include lower costs and potential time savings, and if you experience a security breach, it is a quick fix.
Contact an emergency locksmith immediately if your home or business is ever compromised and you need to rekey your locks quickly.
How often should you rekey your house?
There is no set timeline for how often you should rekey your home – instead, it should be performed on a situational basis – including when you are moving into a new home, you are a landlord and your tenant recently moved out, or if you have a separate entrance to your home office.
Should I key all my locks the same?
Yes, always rekey all locks at the same time. You don’t know who has or had a key to your new home previously.
How long does it take to rekey a lock?
The average time required to rekey a lock can vary; however, it should not take longer than 15 to 20 minutes for most locksmith companies to rekey a single lock.
Should I change all locks after buying a house?
Yes, always replace the locks or rekey your locks after purchasing a home – remember, there were 91,628 burglaries in Texas so far in 2023, and some of those can be avoided by rekeying your home after the closing costs are paid, and you take ownership of the house.
When should I change my locks in my new house?
Contact a lock and key expert immediately after you purchase your home to have the door locks changed or rekeyed.
You should be more concerned with your home’s safety – even over unpacking boxes or getting your home ready for guests.
Conversely, if you are selling your home, here are some tips for home security during property showings.
