Replace Vs Rekeying

Posted on 14th, Aug 2014

After an employee termination, evicting a tenant, taking over a new property, etc.. there is one thing on each property owners mind, and that is to have the locks changed on the property to ensure their safety and security. Upgrading a security system is possible with rekeying locks, which is an alternative to having the locks replaced on the property. Lock rekeying and replacements are performed by professional locksmiths and a security service that is generally affordable. There are different factors to consider before making your decision on replacing or rekeying locks.

Replacing Lock Vs. Rekeying

First, there is a difference between rekeying and replacing locks. Rekeying simply involves the transformation of the inside of the lock, which is performed by a professional locksmith who will change the tumblers in the lock, so the former key no longer fits the lock. When your locksmith rekeys your locks, he will make new keys for the locks, and reset the lock mechanism to work with the keys he makes instead of the old keys.

The pins within the tumbler in the lock are rearranged and a new key fitted to the lock. When the old key is used in the lock, it will no longer unlock the lock. Rekeying is least expensive of the two options because the locksmith does not have the need to replace the locks and the process take less time to carry out.

When Is Rekeying Recommended?

Rekeying is recommended on large size projects, such as a home which all the locks must be changed, or an office building. Landlords responsible for a number of units often choose to rekey locks  over lock changing as it is an affordable and simple solution. When a business owner or superintendent of a building wants a master key for all the locks on the premises, rekeying is also an option and one that is more affordable than having the entire system changed. The pins in all the locks can be arranged in a manner in which they can be opened using a master key, which eliminates the need for a key chain filled with different keys to fit each lock.

Rekeying is not always the best option, however. There are instances when replacing the locks is the best decision. In a case where the locks are broken, have worn down or are damaged, rekeying would be useless. Opting for lock replacements with high quality locks is a definite upgrade. Your locksmith will provide new keys along with your new lock hardware. When replacing more than one lock on a property, you do have the option to have your locksmith key the locks so the locks all work with the same key. That way you only have to deal with one key for all.

Of the two, rekeying is the affordable solution; however, it cannot be performed on locks that are broken, worn down or damaged.

Contact Us Today

For more information or affordable rekeying or lock replacements, contact NJ Locksmith. We serve all serve all suburbs in Kingsford, Alexandria and Darlinghurst with affordable locksmith services. Our locksmiths are licensed and bonded and have years of experience in the industry, offering top quality solutions on all types and sizes of locksmith jobs.

To obtain a free quote on rekeying or replacing your locks, simply fill out our “Get a Quote” form located on our webpage, or call us directly at the number listed below. Our service technicians are standing by to help assist you with your locksmith needs 24 hours a day.