Should You Rekey or Replace Your Locks?

If you are a new homeowner, you may have some concerns or questions about the locks on your new home. A lot of new homeowners will opt to change the locks, or at the very least, rekey the locks. How do you know which option will serve your safety needs the best? There are several key differences between rekeying one’s locks and replacing them entirely. One option over another may be best, depending on your circumstances. Keep reading to find out more about replacing your locks, as well as the option to rekey them. If you have trouble deciding, know that you can always consult a professional locksmith to take a look at your locks and have them offer a recommendation.

When to Rekey Your Locks

Rekeying one’s locks means that the inner mechanisms of the lock are changed in order to accommodate a new key. Rekeying is done by a professional locksmith and consists of rearranging the pins and springs inside of the lock so that a new key can be cut. After this procedure is performed, the old keys will no longer work.

Rekeying is great and recommended to new homeowners that want to make sure their homes are secure. Since you can never be too sure who may have a key to your new home, rekeying is necessary to make all other keys obsolete. Rekeying can be done quickly and easily by a professional.
Another great perk to rekeying your locks is that a professional locksmith will be able to perform other maintenance procedures during the rekeying process. For example, locks need to be lubricated periodically in order to keep working well. If you hire a locksmith to rekey your locks, they will also be able to lubricate your locks, check the alignment, and alert you to any potential problems that may need to be addressed.

Rekeying is non-invasive and does not require that any hardware be removed from the door. It does, however, allow your family to start fresh in your new home with a brand-new set of keys. If you are content with the style and look of the original locks that came with your home, then rekeying is recommended. The exterior look of the locks on your home will remain the same, but the interior is rearranged to accommodate a new key.

When to Replace Your Locks

Replacing one’s locks is much different than rekeying them. Rekeying one’s locks only achieves one purpose. It changes the key that can be used for that particular lock. Replacing one’s locks, however, achieves two purposes. Not only is a brand-new set of keys now able to be used by homeowners, but the entire look of the lock itself can change.

Replacing a lock means that the door lock itself, as well as any other associated parts, are removed from the door and door frame and replaced with new hardware entirely. Some new homeowners will find this option appealing because they intend to update the exterior of their home, or at the very least, the look of the locks.

If you want to replace your front door’s deadbolt lock with a handle set or an electronic lock, a replacement will be necessary. A replacement of any kind will require a locksmith, since placement and set-up of any kind of lock on one’s front door are critical. You would not want to try and replace or install a lock yourself that is meant to be the first line of defense to protect your family.

Having a professional locksmith replace your locks is always recommended. This is especially true if you plan on upgrading to electronic or smart locks. Upgrading is another great reason why homeowners may choose to replace their home locks entirely instead of just rekeying them. Smart and electronic lock models for homeowners have become extremely popular in recent years. Electronic lock models may sometimes work in conjunction with one’s current locks, but it is most common to need a complete replacement or new installation to accommodate electronic locks.

Hire an Expert for Personal Recommendations

Replacing or upgrading your locks will inevitably cost more than a simple rekeying. Working with a locksmith though right from the start can help you make the right choices in order to protect your home, but stay within your budget. If you are a new homeowner, it is recommended that you have your new locks rekeyed, at the very least, even if you do not replace them. If upgrading to electronic locks does not appeal to you or is not within your budget at this point in time, be sure to at least rekey your locks and receive a new set of keys from a locksmith.

Whether you need your locks replaced or rekeyed, it is best to rely on a professional either way. You may even be unsure as to which service you need. Hiring a locksmith can help you make the right choice, as well as receive proper replacements or installations. Locksmiths are trained to make sure new locks are placed properly and they work as they are intended to in order to keep you and your loved ones secure. Call a locksmith in your area that can address your concerns, as well as advise you on the next steps you should take to help secure your property.