What happens when you move to a new apartment or rent a new office? So, you are often left with two options - to rekey or replace the locks. Now, both of them serve the same purpose - to secure your new property. Nonetheless, they have completely different processes and benefits.

Let us find out what each of these options means and which one is more beneficial for you.

What does rekeying a lock mean?
Rekeying is a service provided by professional locksmiths such as Fast Locksmith. It involves changing the internal components of the lock, specifically its pins and tumblers. It ensures that the old key doesn’t work, but the property owners do not have to pay for changing the lock either.

So, instead of replacing the entire lock, the locksmith changes the internal mechanisms of the cylinder to match the new key.

Why do people choose rekeying?
There are several reasons for this. Some crucial ones are mentioned below:

● They have moved to a new property (residential or commercial).
● They have lost a key but do not want the cost or hassle of a lock change.
● They want all the locks of their home to work with one key.
● The current locks are in good working condition, but they want new keys for security purposes.

What are the benefits of rekeying?
This solution offers multiple benefits, like:

● The process is more cost-effective as compared to lock replacement.
● The entire procedure takes around 15 minutes and is not invasive.
● The door remains unscratched, and the existing hardware stays intact.

What does replacing a lock mean?
Replacing the lock is as literal as it gets - removing the complete locking system and installing a new one in its place. It can be due to safety, wear and tear, or aesthetic reasons.

Many property owners are upgrading to smart locks, which require a complete replacement of a lock.

When should you choose lock replacement over rekeying?
You should opt for replacement over rekeying, when you encounter the following situations:

● When your lock is already old, damaged, or malfunctioning.
● You want to upgrade to a secure option, which may be a smart lock.
● The old lock doesn’t suit your aesthetic needs.
● The lock you have can’t be rekeyed or salvaged.

What are the benefits of replacing the entire lock?
Replacing a lock can be expensive and time-consuming, but it comes with its unique pros -

● Improve overall security
● Modernization in terms of looks and security tech
● Brand new hardware with a set of new keys

How can a reputable locksmith service help?
A reliable and licensed locksmith can rekey and replace locks as per your necessity. They can assess the situation and costs to tell you whether you need rekeying or replacement.

Here’s how they can help during the process:

● They have the complete set of tools and skills necessary to rekey or replace locks.

● Your locksmith can help you pick the right lock (biometric, smart lock, or deadbolt) and install it quickly.

● More importantly, a locksmith will ensure that the job is done securely and up to code.

Having a professional locksmith can help you, whether it is adjusting tumblers or drilling new holes for an upgrade.