Rekeying is one of the most practical and affordable ways to improve home security. Whether you’ve recently moved, misplaced a key, or simply want more control over who can enter your property, rekeying allows you to update your locks without replacing them entirely. Many homeowners prefer this option because it keeps the existing hardware while ensuring that only new keys provide access.
What Does Rekeying Involve?
Rekeying is the process of altering the internal pins inside a lock cylinder so that the old key no longer works. A locksmith carefully removes the cylinder, replaces the pins, and provides new keys. Since the hardware remains in place, rekeying is quicker and more affordable than replacing the whole lock.
Professional Rekeying vs. DIY
You can choose between hiring a professional locksmith or attempting the job yourself with a DIY kit. DIY kits, usually sold at hardware stores, include tools and spare pins for one lock. While cheaper, DIY rekeying requires patience and technical skill. Mistakes can damage the lock and lead to higher replacement costs. Professional locksmiths, on the other hand, provide accuracy, reliability, and long-lasting results.
Rekeying vs. Replacing Locks
Replacing a lock means buying new hardware and paying for installation, which can be significantly more expensive. Rekeying allows you to keep your locks while simply updating the key access. For most homeowners, this is the more cost-effective choice when the hardware is still in good condition.
How Much Does It Cost to Rekey a Lock?
The cost of rekeying a lock relies on factors such as the number of locks, the type of lock, and whether you use a locksmith or a DIY method. On average:
- DIY rekey kits cost about $15–$25 per lock.
- Taking locks to a locksmith shop costs around $15–$30 per lock.
- Professional locksmith visits usually range from $80 to $150 per service call, which often includes rekeying several locks.
- High-security or electronic locks may cost more, and after-hours or emergency requests can increase the total.
This makes rekeying far more affordable than full lock replacement, which can run from $50 to $300 per lock, depending on the hardware.
Final Thoughts
Rekeying offers a cost-effective balance between security and affordability. Whether you choose a DIY kit for simple locks or hire a professional locksmith for exterior doors and high-security locks, rekeying is an efficient way to protect your home while keeping existing hardware in place.
