You’ve probably given serious thought to changing your locks whenever you move into a new place, lose your house keys, or have to let go of an untrustworthy roommate or tenant.

Since many people are unaware of the difference between rekeying and replacing locks, some locksmiths decide that the more expensive option is better for their customers than explaining the choices to them.

When it comes to your home’s security, your lock is your first line of defense. However, whether you’ve just moved into a new house or have lived there for years, you may want to rekey your locks or replace them altogether. So, what’s the difference, and which is better?

What Is Rekeying?

Rekeying refers to changing the working key of a lock without having to replace the lock itself. To put it simply, it means retaining the lock, but the old key can’t open it anymore.

You can have your locks rekeyed by a locksmith who’ll replace the tumblers and pins, along with checking the lock’s condition and adding lubrication. You pay for the labor rather than replacement parts.

The procedure may sound complicated, but it’s simple. It should take only a few minutes if the locksmith is experienced and has the right tools like Flat Rate Locksmith - Atlanta or other reputable locksmiths in the area. 

When the locksmith swaps the five old pins inside the lock with five new ones, the lock will remain as secure as before. Rekeying locks neither hurts the lock’s security nor makes it more secure.

What About Replacing Locks?

There are situations where changing locks is the practical alternative. Such instances include upgrading your door security by replacing locks with the biometric or electronic type and having one key for several locks of different brands. 

Here are some tips when you’re in doubt about whether to rekey or replace your locks. 

1. Missing Or Unreturned Keys

It’s typical for homeowners and business owners to request rekeying services when they’ve lent out keys and they haven’t been returned, possibly by a house sitter or an old tenant. Likewise, a rekeying service is often considered if the keys were lost or misplaced by a contractor or employee. 

1. 2. When A Roommate Moves Out

Having the door rekeyed after someone leaves for good is a wise measure to ensure they cannot get back inside. Rekeying home locks after a roommate moves out often gives you peace of mind by guaranteeing that person can’t get back into your home without being invited in.

1. 3. To Maintain Security  

Some homeowners and businesses find it helpful to have their locks rekeyed every couple of years to make sure they are the only ones who have the working keys. While rekeying won’t change the lock’s security, it’ll give you control over key copies, particularly if copies have been provided to other people in the past.

1. 4. For Different Locks To Have The Same Key

With a rekeying service, homeowners and business owners can have their existing door locks rekeyed to operate using the same key. For example, if you have three doors, each would generally have a separate key. You could have the door locks rekeyed, meaning you could conveniently open all three doors using only one key.

1. 5. Different Contractors In And Out of Your Home

Rekeying your home or office is recommended after an extensive renovation project. In the course of the renovation, it’s common for homeowners or business owners to leave spare keys with different contractors or service providers. 

But once the renovation is completed, you become concerned about other people who had ready access to your home. To avoid worrying about your valuables going missing or any unauthorized entry, you’d better have the locks rekeyed as the cost of rekeying is relatively inexpensive. 

1. 6. Old And Stubborn Locks

Even the securest of locks get old after some time. Locks then become stubborn and difficult to operate. If you find that it takes a bit of a struggle to open the door, it makes sense to book an appointment with your locksmith to replace the locks.

1. 7. Upgrading A Deadbolt

If your door has a traditional deadbolt, you might want to upgrade to a keyless lock system for hassle-free locking and unlocking. In this instance, you’ll have to change the locks. 

1. 8. Personalizing Locks

Many homeowners may not be aware that installing new locks allows them to personalize their home security. By personalizing your locks, you can influence the way they look, feel, and function with the rest of your home security system.

In Conclusion

Depending on the situation, you could either rekey or replace your locks. As always, take time to identify what you need and then consider the above points to determine which service would be more suitable.

The best way to have your locks replaced or rekeyed is to hire a professional locksmith. A locksmith can provide a wide range of services, which contribute to the safety and security of your property. They not only install and repair locks but also offer expert recommendations on whether your locks should be replaced or rekeyed.