Many homeowners, when faced with the option to rekey or fully replace their locks surprisingly choose to totally change their locks. Sometimes, however, rekeying is a better option. Should you choose to rekey your locks, you can always count on a reputable locksmith to help you out. But does a locksmith know how to rekey a lock without the original key?
How to Rekey a Lock Without the Original Key
In this guide, we’ll consider the options available when you need to rekey a lock. We’ll also compare rekeying vs buying a new lock for different types of locking mechanisms.
In most cases, a locksmith can rekey your locks even if you’ve lost or misplaced the original key. He/she can either shim or pick the lock in order to unlock the door. When rekeying a lock cylinder, the locksmith will have an easier time removing the lock cylinder after bringing the lock to the “unlock” position. However, locks come in all types, shapes and sizes and not all of them can be rekeyed without a key.
Rekeying a Smart Lock Without a Key
If you have access to the smart lock and you can remove it from the door without causing damage to the lock, then all you need to do is remove the cylinder and use a Kwikset smart key reset cradle to fit a new lock to the lock.
Lost Keys
If you’ve lost your set of keys, your doors are going to be compromised as someone else can gain access if they have the keys. If you want to handle the issue quickly, then rekeying is your best option. As a result, nobody can use the old keys to gain access to your home. Changing locks, on the other hand, can be more time consuming and is often unnecessary. Although, this all depends on the type of door lock and handle that you have installed on your door.
Rekey Lock Cost
In some cases, the total cost of picking and rekeying your lock will not justify the cost of the rekey, which means it may be cheaper to invest in a new lock instead.
Rekeying a Schlage Lever Lock
When it comes to Schlage lever locks, things can get a bit tricky. In an ideal situation, a locksmith would pick the lock, remove the level and pull out the cylinder to rekey it. However, Schlage locks can be hard to pick and it’s sometimes easier to either drill the lock cylinder and replace it with a new one or replace the entire lock.
Rekey vs New Lock
If you have a custom lock (such as those found on French doors) or a designer lock installed- your best bet is to rekey the lock. However, if you’ve lost the keys to one or two generic locks (basic knob/deadbolt) – going to the nearest hardware store, buying a new set of locks and DIY may be a cheaper option.
Bottom Line
Indeed, a trained locksmith will know how to rekey a lock without the original key but you really need to weigh your options. Your budget and type of locking mechanisms that you have, locks and handles are also going to matter. Compare between rekeying and buying a new lock and choose the most suitable option for your situation.
