Rekey or Replace Your Locks?

Rekey or replace your locks? How to decide

Short answer: rekey when the lock is in good shape and you only need the old keys to stop working: after moving in, a lost key, a tenant or employee leaving, or a break-up. Replace when the lock itself is the problem: it is worn, damaged, low quality, mismatched with the rest of the house, or you want a different kind of lock such as a smart or high-security lock. Rekeying is the quicker and usually less expensive option; replacement is the right call when you are buying better security, not just new keys.

What rekeying actually does

Inside a pin-tumbler lock is a row of small pins that must line up with the cuts on your key. A locksmith removes the cylinder, swaps those pins for a new set that matches a new key, and reassembles it. The outside of the lock is untouched. Old keys no longer turn; the new key does. Most residential locks from Kwikset, Schlage, Baldwin and similar brands can be rekeyed, and several locks can often be keyed alike so one key opens every door.

When rekeying is the right choice

• You just bought or rented a home and do not know who has copies.
• A key was lost or stolen, but the locks work fine.
• A roommate, tenant, contractor or employee moved on.
• You want one key for the front, back and garage doors.
• The hardware is good quality and matches the house.

When replacing makes more sense

• The lock sticks, spins, or the key has to be jiggled to turn.
• The lock was forced, kicked, drilled or weathered.
• It is a builder-grade lock on an exterior door and you want bump- and pick-resistant hardware.
• You want a smart lock, keypad or high-security cylinder.
• The finish or style no longer matches and you are updating the door anyway.

Can every lock be rekeyed?

Most can. A few exceptions: some cheap imported locks are not built to be rekeyed, some smart locks have no key cylinder, and locks that are badly worn may not hold a new pin set reliably. In those cases we will say so and show you the replacement options instead.

What about rekeying for a new home?

Rekeying is the standard first step after closing. Builders, agents, cleaners and previous owners may all hold copies. Rekeying every exterior door, and keying them alike, removes that uncertainty in one visit. If the inspection noted worn or mismatched hardware, that is the moment to replace those specific locks and rekey the rest.

How DKNY Locksmith does it

We are a licensed (NC licence #2173), fully insured mobile locksmith serving Raleigh and the Triangle since 2012. A technician comes to you, 7 AM to 11 PM every day, checks each lock, tells you which can be rekeyed and which should be replaced, and quotes the job before starting any work. See lock change and rekeying or lock rekeying in Raleigh, or call (919) 752-7557.

Related questions

Do I need the old key to rekey? It helps, but it is not required; the cylinder can be decoded without it.

Can my new key be made to match my existing key? Yes, if the locks share a keyway. That is called keying alike.

I was locked out, should I rekey afterwards? If you are not sure where the missing key went, yes. See what to do when you are locked out.