Managing the locks for your home or business is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. After all, it’s about securing your most valuable assets. Chances are, you’ve just moved into your new home, or maybe you’ve experienced a break-in. If you’re facing the question of whether it’s better to just rekey the locks or change them completely, this article is for you. Here, we’ll compare rekeying locks vs. changing locks and discuss when you need each.
What is Rekeying a Lock?
It’s possible to change the internal mechanism of a lock to make it work with a new key. To rekey a lock, the locksmith should change the pins or tumblers inside the lock. After rekeying, the old key becomes totally useless. You’ll receive a new key that can fit the lock. Rekeying allows you to keep the hardware intact while you enhance the security.
What is Changing a Lock?
Changing a lock means replacing the lock mechanism entirely. The lock cylinder and sometimes the handles and other parts should be changed. Changing a lock, you’ll get a completely new system. You can go for new security features in the new lock.
Rekeying Locks vs. Changing Locks: What Are the Differences?
So far, we have discussed what each service does. But what’s the real difference, and which one is right for you? Let’s break it down in a simple way.
| Feature | Rekeying Locks | Changing Locks |
| Purpose | Adjusting the lock so it works with a new key | Replacing the entire lock with a new one |
| Cost | Usually cheaper | Usually more expensive |
| When to choose | When you want to keep your old locks but change keys (like if you lost a key or just moved in) | When your locks are old, damaged, or you want a totally new look |
| Security | Offers a fresh start with new keys | Can boost security if the new locks are higher quality |
| Time | Quicker to do | Takes a bit more time and effort |
| Look of door | No change in the appearance of your locks | You can choose new styles and finishes |
Need Help with Your Locks?
Whether you’re looking to rekey your locks or replace them entirely, 247 GTA Locksmith is here to help! Our experts can handle everything quickly and securely, so you can enjoy peace of mind.
Pros and Cons of Rekeying Locks
Pros:
- Cost-Effective: Compared to changing the locks, rekeying is much cheaper. It’s only about modifying the way a lock works, not installing new hardware.
- Quick Process: You don’t need to wait for hours. A locksmith can rekey your lock in a few minutes. If you want the results to be fast, rekeying is a convenient solution
- Maintains Existing Hardware: If your locks work and look proper, rekeying allows you to keep them while you change the key access.
- Flexible Security: You can easily keep your property secure by making sure that the old keys won’t work anymore. This is vital if you lose your keys or they get stolen.
Cons:
- Does Not Upgrade Security: Rekeying keeps you secure by making the lock work with another key, but if you need an improved level of security, it can’t help you. In the case of outdated and damaged locks, rekeying is not enough.
- Limited to Compatible Locks: Rekeying is a good option only if your locks work properly. If the lock is malfunctioning, rekeying alone won’t be an effective solution.
- No New Features: You won’t get any new security features by rekeying. There are a number of security options, like smart locks, that can help you enhance the security of your home, but you need to change the lock if you want these new systems.
Pros and Cons of Changing Locks
Pros:
- New Features and Enhanced Security: When you change your locks, you can switch to newer models that come with advanced features for better security. These locks can protect you against the modern techniques that burglars use to break into your home. You can go with smart locks, keyless entry systems, and advanced deadbolts. In addition to being more secure, these options are more convenient to use.
- Improved Aesthetics: New modern locks can look more stylish! So, if you’re looking to refresh the way your doors look, you can consider changing the locks. Now both security and design are improved!
- Fixes Hardware Issues: For locks that are damaged or malfunctioning, the best way is to change them entirely. This way, you can rest assured about both their function and security in the long term
Cons:
- Waste of Functional Hardware: There’s no need to throw a functional structure away! If your locks are in good shape, you don’t need to pay an extra amount of money to change them. Rekeying can be a cheaper option that offers the same results.
- Higher Cost: To change a lock, you need to pay for new lock hardware. This adds to the installation fee. Therefore, changing locks is a more expensive solution compared to rekeying only.
- Longer Process: It can take more time to change the whole lock. It gets lengthier if you need to upgrade several locks.
Should You Rekey or Replace Your Locks?
| When to Rekey Locks | When to Change Locks |
| When You Move into a New Home Make sure no old keys work anymore by rekeying the locks, especially because past owners, renters, or contractors may still have keys. | If You Need to Upgrade the Security If your current locks are old or easy to break into, replacing them with higher-security options like deadbolts or smart locks is a great idea. |
| When Your Keys Get Lost or Stolen Rekeying can give you peace of mind and keep your home secure without the cost of a full replacement. | After a Break-In Even if your locks aren’t visibly damaged, changing them fully can help you feel safer and ensure there’s no hidden damage. |
| Tenant Changes in Rental Properties As a landlord, rekeying locks between tenants is an affordable way to keep your property secure and limit access to old tenants. | If Your Locks Are Damaged or Worn-Out Over time, locks wear out and can become a security risk. Replacing them is the best way to keep your property safe. |
| Merging Multiple Locks into One Key Want to make life easier by using just one key for all your doors? Rekeying can help you simplify your keys. | If You Want to Renovate Your House Planning a new look for your home? Changing your locks can match your fresh style and add a modern touch to your renovation. |
Cost of Rekeying Locks in Toronto vs. Replacing Them
When it comes to upgrading your home’s security in Toronto, cost is definitely a factor to consider. Rekeying your locks is usually the more budget-friendly option. On average, rekeying a standard lock in Toronto can cost anywhere from $45 to $100 per lock, depending on the type of lock and the locksmith’s rates.
On the other hand, replacing a lock means you’re not just paying for the locksmith’s service but also for the brand-new lock itself. This typically costs between $100 and $300 per lock, or even more if you’re choosing high-security options like smart locks or fancy deadbolts.
Final Words
To make the right decision, you need to understand the situation you’re in, whether your locks are functional, and the level of security you need. If you’re not sure which way to go, you can consult with our experts at 247 GTA Locksmith. We can assess your security needs and the condition of your locks and guide you to choose the best option for you! For businesses, our commercial locksmith services in Toronto can handle rekeying and lock changes for offices, storefronts, and other commercial properties.
So, why wait? Contact us today!
FAQ
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Is it better to rekey or replace locks?
It depends on your situation. Rekeying is often faster and cheaper because it keeps the existing lock hardware and just changes the internal pins. This is a good option if you’re happy with your current locks but want to prevent old keys from working. Replacing the locks, on the other hand, is a good idea if you want to upgrade your home’s security or if the locks are worn out or damaged.
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Do you get a new key when you rekey a lock?
Yes, you do! When a lock is rekeyed, the old keys no longer work. You’ll get a new set of keys that match the newly reconfigured lock. This is why rekeying is a popular choice if you’ve lost a key or just moved into a new home; it’s an affordable way to make sure only you and people you trust have access.
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How many times can you rekey a lock?
You can rekey a lock multiple times as long as the lock hardware is in good shape. However, over time, the pins and internal components may wear down, especially if the lock has been rekeyed many times. In most cases, rekeying a standard residential lock several times (3-5 or more) is fine.
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Can I change locks myself?
Yes, there are many lock replacement and rekeying kits that you can use. However, it usually requires some experience to get it right. Therefore, it’s best to hire a locksmith to save you time and ensure your home stays secure.
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How long does rekeying take?
Rekeying a single lock usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes for a professional locksmith. If you’re doing it yourself and it’s your first time, it might take longer, maybe 20 to 30 minutes per lock, since you’ll need to get familiar with the process.
Have you ever rekeyed your locks or changed them completely? Share your thoughts, tips, or questions in the comments below! Your story could help others decide which option is best for them.
