Rekey or Replace Your Locks: Which One Do You Need?

People often say “I need my locks changed” when what they really need is a rekey. The two solve the same worry, which is making sure old keys no longer work, but they do it in different ways and at very different costs. Knowing the difference can save you a lot of money.

What rekeying actually means

Rekeying keeps your existing lock on the door. A locksmith opens the lock cylinder and swaps the small internal pins so it answers to a brand new key. The moment that is done, every old key stops working. The lock looks and functions exactly as before, you just have a different key.

It is quick, it is inexpensive, and you can even have several locks rekeyed to match a single key so one key opens your whole home.

What replacing a lock means

Replacing removes the entire lock and installs a new one. You are paying for new hardware plus the labor to fit it. That makes it the pricier option, but sometimes it is the right call.

Choose rekeying when

• You just moved into a new home and have no idea how many old keys exist.
• You lost a key or had one stolen and want the old one made useless.
• A roommate, tenant, contractor, or ex moved out.
• You want several doors to open with one key.

Choose replacing when

• The lock is sticking, loose, or failing, so no key feels reliable.
• You want to upgrade to a higher security deadbolt or a keypad or smart lock.
• The finish or style no longer matches a renovated door.
• The lock was damaged in a break in attempt.

For new homeowners, rekey first

If you have just bought or rented in Billings, rekeying every exterior lock should be near the top of your list. Builders, previous owners, agents, cleaners and neighbors may all have held a key at some point. Rekeying closes that door for a fraction of the cost of new hardware. It is one of the most common jobs our residential locksmith service handles, and it takes very little time.

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