Lock Rekey: Why You Should Do It and How to Do It?

Lock rekey is a cost-effective alternative to changing your lock system. With so many people moving around today, it is not uncommon for you to find yourself wanting to change the locks at your home or business. And while changing the locks may seem simple, rekey is way more complicated than you might think. So here, we will explain why you should rekey your locks and how to do it.

What is Lock Rekey?

Replacing a door lock is a straightforward process. A locksmith swaps out your old lock for a new one. Rekeying, on the other hand, is different. With rekeying, the locksmith replaces your old key with a new one that will work with the existing lock. The lock is first disassembled, then some internal parts, like the key pins and tumblers, are replaced to prevent using the old key with the current lock.

A front door with handleset lock

Why Should I Have a Lock Rekey?

Let us look at the top four reasons you might need rekeying service.

Moving to a New Home

Getting your locks rekeyed as soon as you settle into a new house or apartment would be smart. This way, the previous occupants will have no way to access your home. Sometimes, your real estate agents or landlords may also have spare keys to your property. To be safe, you should consider rekeying or changing the locks when you move in.

Your Keys Are Lost

Losing your keys can be a problematic experience. You constantly worry about a stranger finding your keys and breaking into your home. Lock rekeying as soon as possible is a good idea when losing your key. Doing so will keep your home secure. It is also less expensive than replacing your lock with a high-grade deadbolt lock.

Your Keys Are Stolen

Theft is another good reason to rekey your locks. If you have strong reasons to believe your keys were stolen, it is best to rekey your locks as soon as possible.

Convenience

Convenience is one good reason to rekey the locks on your doors. For one, rekeying can reduce the number of keys you need to keep track of. In addition, having a single key that opens all your locks is much more convenient than carrying multiple keys.

How to Do Lock Rekey

Rekeying a lock replaces the inner components, known as tumblers or key pins. It is done by disassembling the lock and replacing the old parts with new ones.

Inside a pin and tumbler lock is a steel cutaway that houses a cylindrical plug, springs, and pins. The pins enable a particular key shape to rotate the lock. Only the key that corresponds to the depth of the lock’s special grooves will open it.

A locksmith performing lock rekey service

Therefore, to rekey your lock, you or a locksmith must first disassemble the lock. Then you take out the current pins and put in new ones designed to work with the new key. As a result, the lock’s newly inserted pins and springs will only work with the new key. The old key will no longer work.

Rekeying your locks is a straightforward process that can be completed relatively quickly, provided you have the right knowledge and tools. However, hiring a professional locksmith is often the best option when you have multiple brands of locks or need clarification on what kind of locks you have.

Locksmith Near Me

Our skilled local locksmiths at Universal Best Locksmith are licensed professionals renowned for offering reliable, timely, and professional locksmith services. Let us save you the time and inconvenience of rekeying or replacing your lock if you live in Studio City or the surrounding area.

Aside from rekeying, Universal Best Locksmith can handle your other locksmithing concerns. Our residential locksmith and car locksmith services are always available for emergencies. Call us at (323) 844-0381 for free estimates!