Lock Change or Rekeying: Making the Best Choice for Property's Safety
- alvishgajera
- 2 days ago
- 7 min read
Your door locks are the most basic crucial element. Your locks are essential whether you are moving to a new home, just want to upgrade your home security system or lose your keys. Lock changes and rekeying a lock service restricted any unauthorized access to your property. By searching for "lock rekeying near me" you will find the nearest locksmith services in Pittsburgh.
In this detailed guide, you will get complete guidance regarding lock changes and rekeying. We explore all the important points regarding lock change. There are many costs involved with these two services. Let’s discuss how to keep your property safe while performing a lock change and rekeying.
Why Locks Matter For Safety
Locks are the first line of defense against any forced break-ins and unauthorized access. A strong and well-maintained lock system.
Locks protect your family, property, and belongings from theft or unauthorized access.
Smart locks can detect burglars who look for easy entry points.
Locks provide a peace of mind when you are away from your home or office.
Most durable locks are becoming less effective. If someone else has a copy of your keys then rekeying and replacing become necessary. Locks matter for protecting your property and belongings from unnecessary burglary and theft.
What is Rekeying a Lock?
Lock rekeying is the process of changing the internal pins and tumblers of a lock so that it can work with a new key. The lock itself stays in place and old keys will no longer function. Lock rekeying is required for the following circumstances.
You are moving into a new home or shift in a rental property.
Lost and stolen keys or experiencing recent break-ins.
Tenants and roommates are moving out.
To create a master key system with one key for multiple locks.
Pros of Rekeying | Cons of Rekeying |
Rekeying is much cheaper than buying a new lock. | Rekeying doesn't improve the lock’s physical strength and designs. |
Old keys become useless. | If your locks are old and damaged, simply rekeying the key is not going to solve the lock’s issues. |
A locksmith can complete the job in minutes and quickly. | |
Rekeying is the best suitable option to match multiple locks to one key. |
Searching for the answer of "what is the cost of rekeying a lock?" Lock rekeying or replacement: there are various factors that are associated with the answer of the lost replacement cost. Factors such as the complexity, type of locks, and the work required for rekeying or replacement influence the cost.
What Does Changing Locks Involve?
The door lock change service means replacing the entire existing lock and installing a new one. These options are not only going to invalidate the old keys but also provide the brand-new hardware. Before exploring the answer of how to change a door lock, you have to know when a lock change is required.
Old and damaged locks don’t function properly.
Upgrading to high security and smart locks ensures better protection for your property.
You want to enhance property value and aesthetics.
You want to install specialized locks with electronic, keyless entry systems and deadbolts.
Pros of Lock Replacement | Cons of Lock Replacement |
You will be able to upgrade to smart advanced locks with better security. | Lock replacement is way more expensive than simple rekeying. |
All components of the lock replacement are new. | Require more time and need professional installation. |
You can choose the lock that suits your style and needs. | |
High-quality locks last longer. |
Search for "door lock change near me in Pittsburgh" and find the nearest service providers in Pittsburgh for taking services.
Rekeying vs Changing Locks
Let’s see four basic facts that are associated with "what is the difference between rekeying and changing locks?" These four are the major differences; apart from these, the price is also going to be different based on the work.
Rekeying | Lock Replacement |
Through rekeying, you can preserve the property's security, not just cancel the old keys. | Through lock replacement, you can upgrade to new lock features and hardware. |
Rekeying time is less than entire lock replacement. | Lock replacement needs more time to change the entire lock. |
This is the best option if you don't trust the person who has your keys or they lost them. | You want better hardware and locks that can secure your property. |
You can access more than one lock with a single key. | You can install modern high-security smart locks on your home or office. |
DIY Rekeying or Replacement: Are they Risk Free?
There are many Youtube tutorials regarding how to change locks on doors. Maybe DIY rekeying and lock replacement look like simple and cost-effective solutions, but are they actually worthy? For understanding, you have to know what the facts associated with DIY rekeying or lock replacement are.
DIY Lock Rekeying Service: Many property owners are asking about how to change door locks. Hardware stores sell DIY key rekeying kits. The kit's tools are made for pros, so they may be challenging for novices. Small mistakes can compromise overall property security. To avoid the mistakes, it’s better to call the professionals to complete the work unless you are experienced in using DIY key rekeying kits.
DIY Lock Replacement: Replacing the existing lock looks simple, especially when instructions are included in the package. Advanced locks, like deadbolts, smart locks, and high-security lock systems, need a professional touch. Without professional help, lock replacement not only looks complicated but also ensures proper alignment and performance.
If you desire to depart with the utmost security and peace of mind, professional assistance is essential. It’s always better to hire a locksmith, especially for multiple locks or having a high-security system.
Situations Where Rekeying Is the Smarter Choice
Here are the situations where rekeying is the smart choice.
You are moving into a new house and you are not sure who else has keys.
You lost your keys and don’t want to invest in new locks.
You want one key for accessing multiple locks for convenience.
You are a landlord who wants to secure the property between tenants.
Situations Where Changing Locks Is the Smarter Choice
Here are the situations when changing locks is the smarter choice.
Your locks are damaged and rusted; you want to install a new one.
You experienced recent breaking attempts so you want to upgrade to stronger protection.
You want to enhance your security by installing smart locks, keypads, and biometric systems.
You are remodeling your existing hardware and want to upgrade the property value.
Which is the Right Option for Businesses
Are you uncertain about the most suitable service for your needs? You may be considering either a door lock change service or rekeying. Here are a few factors to analyze to determine which option is best for your business property and commercial settings.
Rekeying is a useful process when employees leave or keys are unaccounted for. This procedure is a cost-effective solution for an office with multiple doors.
Changing locks may be necessary if the business handles sensitive information and valuable merchandise or wants compliance with advanced security standards through electronic access control.
A professional locksmith can install a master key system for your business and allow you to control access levels for managers, staff, and visitors.
Which are Better: Smart Locks & High-Security Systems
Before deciding whether smart locks with high security features are compatible for your property or not. Let’s check out some facts that will help you make a decision about your property.
Smart lock installations offer keyless entry through smartphones, codes, or biometric access.
High-security locks are resistant to picking, bumping and drilling.
Electronic access systems are the best option if you are managing a business with multiple employees.
These options will cost more upfront and offer better control and convenience over the property.
Useful Safety Tips for Rekeying and Replacement
Changing or rekeying locks is required after moving into a new place.
Share keys only with authorized people; keep fewer copies to preserve security.
Try to upgrade locks every seven to ten years or change them if they show signs of wear.
Always choose the certified locksmith for installation and rekeying.
Keep your spare keys secure, and don’t keep them in any insecure places.
In Conclusion
Both rekeying and lock replacement are important options for securing your property. Hence, key rekeying is a much more economical choice when your existing door lock is in excellent shape. If you need a new key just for security, then rekeying is a much more viable option. On the other side, altering the locks is the better solution if you want a much stronger lock.
To decide between rekeying or replacement, you have to analyze a few factors, like your property's unique needs, costs, and utility. But taking the right action at the right moments is the key for lasting security of your property.
FAQs
Is rekeying always much cheaper than changing locks?
Rekeying is much safer if your door locks are in good shape and condition. Therefore, if you are dealing with an already damaged-looking door, then replacing the entire door system will resolve your headache.
Can you rekey every lock?
We offer services for various types of locks. Usually standard pin and tumbler type locks can be rekeyed. For the best quotations and suitable service suggestions, contact the (412) 422-2004 number and share your problems to get complete ideas.
How often should I change or rekey my locks?
If your keys are lost or stolen, then rekeying is going to resolve your headaches. To change the locks every 7-10 years is better for upgraded security; other than this, if your locks are damaged, then replacing the locks will be a good option.
Do landlords have to change or rekey locks while changing the tenants?
Many landlords prefer to rekey or change the entire lock after a tenant moves out. The result is a safety concern, which landlords usually maintain for having peaceful sleep at night.
Which is cheaper, rekeying vs. replacing?
Rekeying is always much cheaper. Replacing the door lock system is always much costlier for long-term security and customizations. However, if your door lock sustains damage, rekeying won't fix the problem; you'll need to replace the entire locking system.
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