When Security Meets Budget: The Smart Consumer’s Guide to Lock Rekeying vs Lock Replacement

Whether you’re moving into a new home, dealing with lost keys, or simply wanting to upgrade your security, you’ll eventually face a critical decision: should you rekey your existing locks or replace them entirely? This choice can significantly impact both your budget and your peace of mind, making it essential to understand the differences, costs, and benefits of each option.

Understanding the Basics: Rekeying vs Replacement

Rekeying involves altering a lock’s internal mechanism so that it can be operated by a new key. When you choose this option, you are effectively rendering your previous keys useless without needing to purchase new hardware. Replacing locks means to remove old locks entirely and install new ones in their place. This usually involves selecting a different lock model or version that may enhance security or functionality.

The Cost Factor: Where Your Budget Really Matters

When it comes to your wallet, the difference between rekeying and replacement is substantial. Rekeying typically costs between $15 to $50 per lock, making it a budget-friendly option for enhancing security. Professional locksmiths charge an average of $75 per hour, and you won’t need to replace the hardware.

In contrast, replacing a lock costs an average of $315, as it requires a fair amount of both materials and labor. Lock replacement costs range widely from $20 for basic locks to $500 for high-security options, plus installation fees. This significant price difference makes rekeying an attractive option for budget-conscious homeowners.

When to Choose Rekeying

Rekeying is ideal in several scenarios. You should change the locks as soon as you can after completing the purchase of a house. This is a matter of privacy and security, as you have no idea how many copies of the keys the previous owner made. If your keys are lost or stolen, rekeying your locks can prevent unwanted access without having to replace the entire lock system.

In instances where locks are still in good working condition but need a security upgrade, rekeying provides a budget-friendly option. Additionally, if your home has several locks and each lock has a different key, which can be inconvenient, you may want to rekey the locks to all match the same key.

When Lock Replacement Makes Sense

While rekeying is cost-effective, replacement becomes necessary in certain situations. If your locks are damaged, either from wear and tear or a break-in attempt, replacement is usually the best option. When you want to upgrade your security and change your locks to high security locks or electronic locks.

Replacement also makes sense for aesthetic reasons. If you moved into a new place and your locks are old and rusted, you may want to get a new, nicer looking locks. Modern smart locks and keyless entry systems require complete replacement, offering enhanced convenience and security features.

Time and Labor Considerations

The time investment differs significantly between the two options. When rekeying, the labor involved is minimal, often taking 15 to 30 minutes. A rekey service can take between 10 and 40 minutes per lock.

New lock installation or replacement can take 30-60 minutes per lock, which is one reason that lock replacement is more expensive. This extended time requirement translates directly into higher labor costs.

Long-term Security Considerations

Rekeying a lock offers the same level of security as replacing it, at a lower cost. Lock rekeying is cheaper than replacing the existing lock, and just as effective at ensuring your home’s security, provided that the old lock is still in good shape.

However, while rekeying may seem cheaper initially, consider the long-term costs regarding security effectiveness. Ineffective locks could lead to break-ins or theft, which would incur greater costs and potential loss of valuables.

Professional vs DIY Approach

While DIY rekeying kits are available, professional service ensures optimal results. Kits typically only cost $10 to $25 each, but picking the wrong one can lead to more headaches than solutions. Instead of dealing with mismatched pins and keys that just don’t work, a professional knows exactly what to look for and will ensure everything fits perfectly.

Making the Right Choice for Your Situation

Your decision should be based on several factors: the current condition of your locks, your budget constraints, your security needs, and your long-term plans. In most cases, rekeying is a smart, cost-effective solution. But when locks are worn, outdated, or you’re craving modern features, changing them entirely is the better route.

For residents in New York City looking for professional locksmith services, working with an experienced locksmith can help you make the best decision for your specific situation. Super Security Locksmith is providing locksmith services in New York City for over a decade with exceptional locksmith services. We service both residential and commercial customers and provide 24 hour emergency locksmith services. We strive to provide only the best possible locksmith services and total customer satisfaction.

Regular Maintenance and Security Updates

You should rekey your house every three years to minimize the chances of someone gaining access to your home. You can do it more than that, but it depends on the level of foot traffic and visitors you get. If you experience a break-in or a house key has gone missing, rekey the locks immediately.

The choice between rekeying and replacing locks ultimately depends on your specific circumstances, budget, and security needs. By understanding the costs, benefits, and appropriate applications of each option, you can make an informed decision that provides the security you need at a price you can afford. Whether you choose the economical route of rekeying or invest in new lock hardware, the most important step is taking action to secure your property.