Moving into a new home, misplacing old keys, or simply wanting more control over access often leads homeowners to consider rekeying. This process is a practical way to enhance security without replacing all the locks. It’s faster, more affordable, and allows you to maintain your existing hardware while ensuring only new keys work.
What Does Rekeying a House Mean?
Rekeying means modifying the internal pins inside the lock cylinder so that old keys no longer work. A locksmith removes the lock cylinder, changes the pins, and cuts new keys to fit. The hardware stays in place, which makes rekeying quicker and more affordable than a full lock replacement.
Professional Rekeying vs. DIY
Homeowners can either hire a professional locksmith or attempt rekeying themselves with a DIY kit. While DIY kits are available in hardware stores, they require patience and mechanical skill. Mistakes can damage locks and end up costing more in repairs. Professional locksmiths, on the other hand, ensure accuracy, proper alignment, and long-lasting security.
Rekeying vs. Replacing Locks
Replacing locks involves buying new hardware and paying for installation, which can be much more expensive. Rekeying keeps your existing locks in place while updating the key access, making it a cost-effective choice for most households.
How Much Does It Cost to Rekey a House?
The price of rekeying a house depends on the number of locks, the type of lock, the location, and whether you hire a locksmith or choose a DIY kit. On average:
• DIY rekey kits cost about $20–$30 per lock.
• Professional locksmith services typically range between $120 and $250 to rekey several locks in one visit, including service call fees.
• High-security or smart locks may cost more, while after-hours or emergency requests can also increase the total.
This makes rekeying significantly cheaper than replacing locks, which can cost $50 to $300 per door, depending on the brand and features.
Final Thoughts
Rekeying is one of the most effective ways to secure your home after moving in, losing keys, or changing tenants. Whether you opt for a DIY kit for interior locks or hire a professional for full-home security, rekeying provides peace of mind without the higher cost of complete lock replacement.
