When it comes to your security, making the wrong decision could leave your home or business vulnerable. So, what’s the difference between lock rekey and lock change, and which is the best choice for you? Here’s a look at both locksmith services and when you might want to use them.
What is Rekeying a lock?
Rekeying a lock is the process of changing the key that works in a lock from one key to another. The lock itself is not replaced, and cannot be replaced either. However, the original key can still be used.
A current fitting key is required for a locksmith to begin the rekeying process. If the lock is not picked, it will be charged to you more and may cost more than the cost of changing it.
Locksmiths can rekey locks by taking apart and reassembling them with different parts. These parts are known as the key pints and tumblers. Locks that are rekeyed do not lose their security.
The number of pins within it determines the level of security of a lock. Therefore, if the locksmith replaces five of the five existing pins with five new ones, the lock will still be as secure as before the rekeying.
Rekeying locks is usually a cheaper option than changing them. It is more cost-effective than changing it. It’s reusing an existing lock structure.
Rekeying is an option for most residential and commercial locks. It’s up to you and your locksmith whether they have the equipment.
Rekeying your locks can be a practical option for many reasons. The locks must be of the same brand. You may want to rekey your locks if you have different keys for your front and back doors.
It is important to hire a locksmith if you need to rekey locks. You could endanger your home’s security by making an error in rekeying.
When Should You Rekey Locks?
Rekeying locks means modifying the lock mechanism to make it impossible for the old key to open. A new key will be required. Rekeying locks is more cost-effective than changing them. If your locks have the same brand, have the same keyhole, but have different keys, you may be able to have them rekeyed to operate with the same key.
You can rekey locks to ensure the old key does not work if you have lost it. Rekeying your locks is a cost-effective way to ensure that you and your family have access to your new home.
Benefits of Rekeying Your Locks
Cost-Effectiveness
Keep costs down by changing only the key pins of a lock cylinder. The key pins are cheap and require no labor. Rekeying locks can be a great way to save money and keep your home secure.
Security
Rekeying locks can increase your security as you make all your old keys obsolete. For homeowners with tight budgets, rekeying their locks is a great option. A new homeowner can have the locks rekeyed to ensure that only their keys work with the locks. The new homeowners will feel more secure and safe in their new homes if the locks are rekeyed.
Aesthetics
You should not replace locks if you love the brand of your locks and how they look. You may need to repair your locks instead of replacing them. This depends on how large or small the lock was.
Rekeying locks will keep your locks in their current footprint. This is good news if your brand and shape are still strong.
The Quick Solution
You can call a locksmith to quickly rekey your locks if you have concerns about your home’s security.
Locksmiths can quickly and easily rekey locks. The rekeying process is quick and requires only a few tools. It is the faster process if time is an issue when choosing between changing locks and rekeying.
When To Change A Lock
You or a locksmith will remove the old lock hardware and install new hardware when you replace it. All new locks will be provided along with all the keys. However, changing locks is not always an option.
It’s better to change locks when you need them. This is usually more costly than having your locks rekeyed. If your locks are worn out and damaged, it’s better to change them than rekey them. You can also replace older, less secure locks with modern electronic locks. You may have to replace all the locks on your house that are different in the brand.
Benefits of Changing The Lock
Here are the benefits of changing your locks if you are unsure when it is the right time.
The solution for lost keys
It is something that everyone has experienced at one time or another. It’s that feeling of terror as you look around in your pockets in despair, saying, “I could swear I had my keys with me!” The good news is most keys are misplaced and can be found quickly.
Sometimes, however, keys can be lost in the abyss. It is frustrating and annoying. This is all obvious. It is advisable to change your locks immediately. Your keys could have fallen a drain or made their way to the skip. There is also the possibility that your keys may have fallen into a water drain.
You could lose a lot more if someone has dark motives and knows your location. It’s better to be safe than sorry in such situations.
Keeping The Previous Occupants Out.
It is an excellent idea to change the locks on a house you just purchased if it was occupied in the past. The previous resident may return and use their old keys to enter your home. A spare key could also have been given to relatives or friends of the former owner. If you do not change the locks, they could enter your home at will.
Protected Against Any Future Burglary Attempts.
Any attempted or actual burglary is a sign that you should change your locks immediately. Unsurprisingly, many people ignore this warning sign and do not think about calling a locksmith. Although they may have a million thoughts in their heads after a burglary, it is essential to be more secure to prevent future ones.
Even if they have only attempted a break-in, they wanted to enter your home. Imagine if they managed to get a key. Now, they can walk through the front door with no resistance.
Old & Deteriorated Locks
You may have ever tried to turn a lock by inserting your key into a lock and encountered resistance. It could be that you used the wrong key or tried to enter the wrong door. It is possible that the lock is faulty or stuck because it has aged.
If the lock is left to deteriorate, it may eventually jam to the point that it cannot be fixed. You should replace the lock rather than allow this problem to get worse. You are left outside locked and will need an emergency locksmith.
Latest Technological Advancements
Even though your locks may be old, they might still work as expected. It is always a good idea to check out alternative locks, even though your lock may be years old. There have been technological advancements in the lock industry, as with almost any other sector. You can now buy stronger, more secure locks and include digital elements.
Which One Should You Choose
You may need to change your locks in many situations. If your locks have been damaged by a burglary, or you need a stronger locking system, you can change them.
In many cases, a simple rekeying is cheaper than changing locks. It is important to compare the price of rekeying locks to changing them before you decide on a new lock. In the end, you should choose the option that best suits your needs.
Lock Rekey in Toronto, Ontario
In case you are still unsure which service is best for you, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our extremely experienced team, at GR Locksmith, would be more than happy to help you choose the lock to rekey or lock change services that will work best for your needs and budget. Contact us at 647-559-2255 today to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment!