Whether you’ve just moved homes, experienced a break-in, or have lost your keys, it appears that new locks are in order. Deciding on the path forward can be confusing, as choosing whether to rekey locks or change locks isn’t always clear. Let’s explore the pros and cons of each option to ensure that you’re selecting the choice that best fits your needs.
What Is Rekeying a Lock?
As opposed to completely changing out a lock system, rekeying allows you to alter the lock mechanism so that a newly cut key can be used to lock and unlock it. The process involves taking the lock you already have, opening it up, and replacing the key pins inside – it’s these pins that determine which keys can and can’t access it. Once reset, the lock can be put back into place and new keys cut.
The process of rekeying becomes easier for a locksmith if the original keys are available, as they will allow for easy access. If the original keys are not available, potentially because they are lost, the locksmith will have to gain entry to the lock by picking it. Although not incredibly difficult for a well-trained locksmith, the additional work involved will often increase the cost associated with the lock rekeying. This is important to consider when comparing the options to rekey a lock or have it changed.
Is It Better to Rekey or Change Locks?
Deciding whether to rekey a lock or have it changed depends on a few different variables. To start, the possibility of rekeying is only available if your lock is in working order and hasn’t sustained any major damage. Because rekeying is typically going to be the more affordable option, individuals with good quality lock systems should lean towards rekeying as their primary solution. In instances where the lock is not of high enough quality to rekey, however, changing the locks will be the go-to method. Changing locks is the more expensive option of the two, as it requires the installation of a completely new system. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, as it will ensure high quality security for years to come. That said, it is a solution that should primarily be depended on only after a lock has been deemed as being beyond repair.
When to Change a Lock
You’ll be required to change your locks whenever they have aged or been damaged beyond repair. Changing locks is a very standard practice for homeowners, and it will be done several times over the life of your ownership. Various reasons can lead to a need for lock changes, including break-ins, material wear, the loss of keys, and more. A trained locksmith will be able to quickly assess the system needed, have it installed, and ensure that you have the keys needed for access.
When to Rekey Locks
Rekeying locks is the affordable alternative to complete lock changes, and it should be used in cases where your current lock setup remains in good shape but requires the security component to be reset. In most instances, you’ll want to have locks rekeyed if you’re moving homes, having a tenant or roommate enter or exit a property, or have lost your keys. Having a professional locksmith rekey your locks, especially if you have possession of the keys used to access it originally, is a quick and affordable way to ensure that your home is secure. If you don’t have possession of the original keys, it’s important to compare the prices between a lock change and lock rekeying.
How to Rekey a Lock
Having a lock rekeyed is as simple as picking up the phone and calling the Rapid Locksmith team. The actual process of rekeying a lock involves opening the lock mechanism, resetting the pin function that allows it to accept or deny an inserted key, putting the lock mechanism back together, and then cutting you the keys necessary to access it. Because the process is virtually the same for any lock rekeying, trained locksmith professionals can complete the job efficiently and affordably, which is why it often presents a more affordable solution than complete changes.
If you’re in need of a lock change or rekeying in the Ottawa area, our team is ready to help. Contact Rapid today and ensure that your home is secure!
