Rekey or fit new looks on doors?

Rekey or change locks on doors?

You've likely been faced with situations where your locks need to be changed. Many people don't know that rekeying their locks can sometimes be cheaper than changing them.

This post will explain what it means to "re-key” a lock and, more importantly, when to rekey locks instead of changing them as it can save you money. Some locksmiths don't always give the option to rekey as they make more money from fitting new locks. Mobile Locksmith Domestic & Auto will always give you professional locksmith advice and offer all the options available to you.

What does Rekeying mean?

Considering whether to rekey or change locks on doors? Although "Changing a Lock" can be explained easily by simply replacing an existing lock with one that is newer, it's important to understand what rekeying means. Without replacing the locks, rekeying simply changes the key so the old key doesn't work in it any more. You can do this by taking apart the lock and replacing certain parts (or "tumblers") within. Each series of key pins on your lock corresponds to a particular key. By replacing those pins with new ones you can essentially create a new key which will operate the lock.

The current key must be available for the locksmith to change the lock's key. If the key is not available, the only way to unlock the lock is to pick it, which adds to the cost and can then make it more expensive that just changing the locks.

A lock can be rekeyed to increase its security and safety. The number of pins in a lock is one of its most important factors. The lock will be as secure as ever if the locksmith replaces 5 of the 5 old pins with 5 newer ones. You can improve the security of your locks by changing to higher-security ones.

Rekeying your locks is usually cheaper than changing them because of their low cost of key pins. Rekeying locks is primarily a labour cost whereas changing locks costs you both labour and parts.

When thinking about whether to rekey or change locks on doors, keep in mind that locks all come with an option to be reset, which means you won't need to worry about whether or not your lock is rekeyable but rekeying different branded locks can require different specialist tools.

You can also rekey locks to replace different locks in your home that use different keys. To match two locks, or more, you must have the exact same lock brands. To check if rekeying is an option, just put your key in each lock. If it fits them all, you're good to go. If it doesn't then you will have to add new locks.

When is it time to rekey?

Rekey or change locks on doors? These are the 2 most popular reasons for rekeying your locks:

1. You want to change the keys but not the locks. Here are some examples of this:

• You have moved to a new location and are unsure who else has a key.
  
• You may have lost a key copy and are afraid that someone might find it.
  
• You can prevent someone from entering your home if they have a key.

2. If you have multiple keys for different locks, you need them to all match. All locks must be the same brand and keyhole.

When should locks be changed?

1. You want your locks to be a different design, brand or colour. If your locks have become rusty or old after you move in, it may be worth getting new locks.
   
2. If you are looking to improve your security, change to electronic or high-security locks.
   
3. You can only rekey locks that are the same brand or has the same key way, so if this is the sae, you'll have to change some or all of the locks.

Can I do it myself?

Rekeying or changing locks on doors is something left to a locksmith professional who has access to the specialist and expensive pinning kits for all key brands. Trying to do it yourself can ruin the lock permanently and then you'll have to pay for new locks to be installed, so if you're thinking should I rekey or change locks on doors, we recommend calling Mobile Locksmith Domestic & Auto for a free quote to get the job done properly.

Call Mobile Locksmith Domestic & Auto Ltd on 0800 6124629 for a free quote to get a fast and professional service from your local friendly locksmiths.

Check out our other Blog articles: Common lock problems and how to fix them, 5 Reasons To Call A Local Locksmith, What can a locksmith do for me?, 5 reasons why you should change your locks in a new property.

Best Plymouth locksmith services. Locked out and looking for the best locksmith in Plymouth that can help you get back in and back on with your life? Mobile Locksmith Domestic & Auto Ltd are trusted local locksmiths based in Plymouth covering Devon and East Cornwall.

Established in 2010, we are a local family business that provides a wide range of services with no call-out charges, including house locksmith, auto locksmith (car, van & bike), office locksmith, replacement locks, key cutting, emergency lockout, car key replacement, window and door repairs, fast 24/7 emergency locksmith service, padlocks, safe opening, locks and UPVC repairs.

Mobile Locksmith Domestic & Auto Ltd are specialist Plymouth auto locksmiths that can help you get back into your locked car or van fast. We also offer car key replacements and spare car keys. Give us a call on FREEPHONE: 0800 6124629 PLYMOUTH: 01752 345662 or MOBILE: 07912560219 now for a free quote and and we can be with you in as little as 20 minutes.

We are not a call centre and don't charge any call-out fees. You will speak directly to the same friendly and professional locksmith in Plymouth that will attend your call-out. You can call us any time for a fast response from your trusted local locksmiths.

Rekey or change locks on doors? Call Mobile Locksmith Domestic & Auto Ltd on 0800 6124629 for a free quote.