When securing your home, understanding whether to rekey or change your door locks is essential. Both options provide peace of mind, but each serves a specific purpose. In this blog, we’ll break down rekeying and changing locks and help you choose the best option for your situation.
What is Rekeying?
Rekeying involves modifying the lock cylinder so it works with a new key. A professional locksmith replaces the pins inside the cylinder, rendering old keys useless. If you’ve recently moved into a new home, rekeying is a smart choice to ensure no one else has access. Some home warranty plans even include rekey services, so check your coverage to potentially save money.
For those who enjoy DIY projects, a rekeying kit may be a convenient option. These kits are designed for specific brands of locks, so ensure compatibility with your existing door locks. However, for the best results and guaranteed security, hiring a professional locksmith is recommended.
Rekeying is a cost-effective solution, especially when:
- You’ve misplaced your keys or suspect they’re in the wrong hands.
- You want to ensure previous occupants can’t access your property.
- You’re satisfied with the appearance and functionality of your current locks.
What Does Changing Locks Involve?
Changing locks, often called “lock and replace,” requires removing the entire lock mechanism and installing a new one. This option is ideal if your locks are outdated, damaged, or no longer meet your security needs. Additionally, upgrading to high-security locks, smart locks, or modern styles can enhance both your home’s protection and curb appeal.
If you’ve moved into a new home and want a fresh start with brands of locks that offer advanced features, changing locks is the way to go. While it may be more expensive than rekeying, it offers long-term benefits, including improved durability, functionality, and aesthetics.
Changing locks is especially useful if:
- Your current locks are worn or unreliable.
- You want to upgrade to a stronger lock or add keyless entry options.
- You’re remodeling and want a new style to match your doors.
Rekeying vs Changing Locks: How Does it Compare?
When choosing between rekeying and changing locks, consider factors like your budget, security needs, and the condition of your existing locks.
- Cost: Rekeying is often the more budget-friendly option, especially if you’re using a rekeying kit. Changing locks requires purchasing new locks, which can vary in price depending on the brand of lock you choose.
- Convenience: Rekeying is a quicker process because it doesn’t involve removing hardware. However, changing locks may be necessary for a complete upgrade or if the current locks are beyond repair.
- Security Enhancements: Rekeying maintains the same lock mechanism while changing locks allows you to select more advanced or secure options.
For minor security concerns, our professional rekey service at Dr. Lockaroo can be a quick and affordable fix. If your door locks are damaged or outdated, replacing them entirely is the better choice.
Why Choose Dr. Lockaroo for Rekeying and Lock Replacement?
At Dr. Lockaroo, we specialize in rekeying and changing locks, helping you secure your home or business with solutions tailored to your needs. Whether you’ve recently moved into a new home or want to upgrade your security, our experienced locksmiths are here to help. We work with top brands of locks to ensure quality and reliability in every job.
