Importance Of Home Security: Lock Change Or A Lock Rekey As A Solution

Home security is a top priority for many homeowners. From alarm systems to motion-sensor lights, there are many ways to keep your house safe and secure from potential intruders. But one of the most effective measures you can take is with a lock change or a lock rekey.

When you do a lock rekey, it involves replacing the tumblers inside the cylinder while changing a lock means installing an entirely new locking mechanism in place of an existing one. Both processes provide enhanced home security and peace of mind, but they have slightly different benefits that should be considered when deciding which option is best for you.

In this blog post, we will discuss the differences between doing a lock change and a lock rekey so that you can make an informed decision about how best to protect your home.

Let’s dive in!

What Is A Lock Rekey?

Rekeying is the process of altering the inner workings of a lock so that a different key can operate it. Instead of replacing the entire lock, only the part that the key turns, known as the cylinder or core, is changed. This leaves the outer hardware like the door knob or deadbolt intact.

Rekeying a lock involves removing the cylinder from the lock casing and replacing the existing pins and springs with new ones that work with a different key. The locksmith then cuts a new key to match the new pin combination. This renders the old key useless, and the lock is now operable with the new key.

Benefits Of Doing A Lock Rekey

The primary benefit of rekeying your lock is added security. If you’ve lost your keys or suspect someone you don’t trust has a copy of them, rekeying is a less expensive option to ensure that only those with authorized access have a key that can open the lock.

Rekeying also saves time and money compared to changing a lock entirely. Lock changes often require costly new hardware and professional installation, whereas rekeying can be done at a lower cost and with minimal hardware changes.

When To Do A Lock Rekey

Rekeying can be done at any time you feel like you need to update the security of your home. In addition to lost keys and suspicious activity, you should also consider rekeying when moving into a new home, as you never know who may have had access to the old key.

Additionally, if you have a business with a high turnover or many employees, rekeying can be a convenient and cost-effective way to keep your business secure while limiting access to authorized personnel.

In conclusion, rekeying and changing a lock are both valuable for enhancing home security. Rekeying allows you to keep the existing hardware, change the keys, and save time and money. Determine what works best for you by considering the situation, the cost, and level of security you need.

What Is A Lock Change?

Changing a lock involves completely replacing the entire lock set, including the cylinder, the housing, and any related hardware (like the deadbolt, latch, or strike plate). This means you will have an entirely new key that operates the locking mechanism.

Changing a lock requires the complete removal of the old lock mechanism and the installation of a new one. This often involves drilling new holes in the door and frame to accommodate the new hardware. A new set of keys is also provided, which ensures that only authorized individuals can gain access to your home.

Benefits Of Doing A Lock Change

One of the main benefits of changing the lock is that it provides maximum security. By replacing the entire lock set, you eliminate the possibility of anyone having a duplicate key or being able to pick the lock with specialized tools. This is especially important if you have had a break-in or if your lock is damaged, as criminals may be able to bypass the lock and gain entry to your home.

Another benefit of changing the lock is that it allows you to upgrade to newer, more secure technology. For example, you could replace an old pin-and-tumbler lock with a keypad or smart lock, which can be controlled from your smartphone and provide an extra layer of security.

When To Do A Lock Change

There are several situations where changing the lock is necessary. If you have recently experienced a break-in, changing the lock should be done immediately. This will prevent the burglar from returning and being able to gain entry easily with a key they may have taken during the initial burglary.

Another reason to change the lock is if your lock is old or worn out. Over time, the pins and springs inside the lock can become damaged or weakened, making it easier to pick or bypass the lock. Changing the lock ensures that the entire mechanism is up-to-date and in good working order.

Finally, you should consider changing the lock if you have recently purchased a new home or if you have lost or given out a key to someone you no longer trust. This will provide an added layer of security and peace of mind.

Key Differences Between A Lock Change & A Lock Rekey

When it comes to enhancing the security of your home or business, there are two options available: lock change or a lock rekey. While both options have their advantages and disadvantages, understanding the key differences between them can help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and situation.

Costs

One of the main differences between rekeying and changing the lock is the cost. To do a lock rekey is generally less expensive than changing the lock, as it only requires changing the pins inside the cylinder and the corresponding keys. Doing a lock change, on the other hand, involves replacing the entire locking mechanism, which can be more costly due to the additional hardware and installation fees.

Time

Another factor to consider is the time required for each process. Rekeying is typically faster than changing the lock, as it only involves changing the internal components of the lock and cutting new keys. Changing the lock, on the other hand, may require drilling new holes and making additional hardware changes, which can take more time.

Level of security

When it comes to security, changing the lock provides a higher level of protection than rekeying. With rekeying, the same hardware is used, and only the key is changed, meaning that someone with a copy of the old key can still gain access. Changing the lock, on the other hand, completely replaces the hardware, preventing anyone with an old key from being able to unlock the door.

Key control

Another advantage when you do a lock change is that it provides better key control. With rekeying, an individual in possession of a previous key could potentially make a copy, granting unauthorized access. By changing the lock, you regain control of who has access and prevent unauthorized duplication of keys.

Compatibility

Compatibility is another aspect to consider when deciding between rekeying and changing the lock. If you have a unique or custom lock, or if the hardware is old or obsolete, it may be difficult or impossible to rekey. In this case, changing the lock may be the only option to achieve the desired level of security.

In conclusion, both rekeying and changing the lock offer advantages and disadvantages for enhancing the security of your home or business. Rekeying is cost-effective and convenient while changing the lock provides maximum security and better key control. Ultimately, the decision between rekeying and changing the lock should be based on your specific needs and situation, taking into account factors such as cost, time, and level of security required.

How To Decide Whether To Rekey Or Change Lock

When it comes to securing your property, choosing between rekeying and changing the lock can be a tough decision. To make an informed choice, you need to weigh in several factors, including the cost, time, level of security needed, key control concerns, and compatibility issues. Below we cover these factors in more detail to help you determine when to rekey and when to change the lock.

Factors To Consider

Cost: As we mentioned earlier, rekeying is often less expensive than changing the lock. However, it’s essential to note that depending on the type of lock, rekeying may not be the most cost-effective option in the long-term. If your lock is old or damaged, you may need to replace it entirely sooner rather than later. Additionally, if you want to upgrade to a more secure lock, rekeying may not be enough.
Time: Rekeying is relatively faster than replacing the lock, usually taking less than an hour. However, if the lock is heavily corroded or damaged, rekeying may not be a practical solution. Changing the lock requires more time, especially if the door hardware is incompatible with the new lock.
Level of Security: If you are seeking maximum protection, changing the lock is always the best option. Rekeying ensures that the old key will no longer work, but it does not prevent someone with mechanical or technical skills from picking the lock. New locks come with the latest security features, making them substantially harder to break or compromise.
Key Control: With rekeying, you can limit the number of keys in circulation and prevent unauthorized copying. However, if you believe that a previous key holder could have duplicated the key or that the keys are lost or stolen, changing the lock is the way to go.
Compatibility: As locks come in various shapes and sizes, rekeying may not always be feasible. For instance, some locks can’t be rekeyed because they have no removable cylinder, while others may be too old or too complicated to rekey. In such cases, changing the lock is the only viable option.

When To Rekey

Rekeying is an excellent option if you lose your keys or need to revoke access to a former employee, tenant, or roommate. Rekeying allows you to keep the existing lock but replace the pins and tumblers to ensure that only new keys can unlock the door. As long as the lock is in good condition, rekeying can provide reliable security at a fraction of the cost of changing the lock.

When To Change The Lock

Changing the lock is the best option if the lock is damaged, or old, or you need to upgrade to a more secure lock. Additionally, if you’re moving into a new home or office, or you’re not sure who has a copy of your keys, it’s essential to change the lock. Doing so ensures that you have complete control over who has access to your property, keeping your family or business safe from intruders.

Choosing between rekeying and changing the lock is an essential part of securing your property. If you’re still unsure which option is right for you, consult a professional locksmith from Locksmith Atlanta. We can evaluate your lock, discuss your security needs, and recommend the best solution based on your budget, timeline, and security requirements.

Have A Lock That You Want To Change Or Rekey? Let Locksmith Atlanta Handle It!

At Locksmith Atlanta, we understand that deciding between changing and rekeying a lock can be difficult. We have the expertise, experience, and tools to help you make an informed decision on what is best for your property’s security needs.

Whether it’s upgrading to a more secure lock or simply rekeying a lock to limit the number of keys in circulation, our team of certified locksmiths can handle all your residential and commercial locksmithing needs.

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