Rekeying vs. Replacing Locks: Which Option is Right for You?

When your security needs change—whether due to lost keys, tenant turnover, or a break-in—you'll face an important decision: should you rekey your existing locks or replace them entirely? Understanding the difference can save you money while ensuring your property remains secure.

What is Rekeying?

Rekeying means changing the internal pins and springs inside your existing lock cylinder so that it works with a new key. Your old keys will no longer operate the lock, but the lock hardware itself remains unchanged.

How Rekeying Works:

1. Locksmith removes the lock cylinder from the door

2. Takes apart the cylinder and removes existing pins

3. Replaces them with new pins that match a different key profile

4. Reassembles and reinstalls the lock

5. Provides you with new keys

Time required: 15-30 minutes per lock

Typical cost: $20-50 per lock (after initial service call fee)

What is Lock Replacement?

Lock replacement means removing your entire existing lock hardware and installing a completely new lock set.

When Replacement Happens:

1. Locksmith removes old lock from door

2. May need to fill old screw holes or drill new ones

3. Installs new lock hardware

4. Tests functionality

5. Provides keys for new lock

Time required: 30-60 minutes per lock (depending on door preparation needed)

Typical cost: $100-300+ per lock including hardware

When Rekeying is the Right Choice

✓ Lost or Stolen Keys

If your keys were lost or stolen but your locks are in good condition, rekeying is usually sufficient and much more affordable.

Cost comparison:

✓ Moving into a New Home

You have no way of knowing how many people have keys to your new home. Previous owners, contractors, real estate agents, and cleaning services may all have copies.

Best practice: Rekey all exterior door locks immediately after closing on a property.

✓ Ending a Relationship

If you're going through a breakup or divorce and need to revoke someone's access to your home, rekeying is a fast, affordable solution.

Timeframe: A locksmith can rekey all your locks in 1-2 hours.

✓ Employee or Tenant Turnover

Landlords and business owners should rekey when:

✓ Keying Locks Alike

If you want all your door locks to work with the same key (for convenience), rekeying allows a locksmith to pin all locks to match a single key.

Benefit: Carry one key instead of a ring full of keys.

✓ Master Key System Creation

For businesses or multi-unit properties, rekeying allows creation of a master key system where:

When Lock Replacement is Necessary

✓ Worn or Damaged Locks

If your lock is:

...then rekeying won't solve the problem. The lock mechanism itself is compromised and must be replaced.

Warning sign: If your key feels loose in the lock or the lock cylinder wiggles, replacement is necessary.

✓ Upgrading Security

If your home has:

...then you should upgrade to higher-security locks. Rekeying a weak lock doesn't make it more secure.

Security upgrade example:

✓ Lock Type Incompatibility

Different lock brands use different keyways and pin configurations. If you want all your locks to work with the same key but you have:

...then you'll need to replace some locks to achieve consistency.

✓ Switching to Smart Locks

If you want to:

...you'll need to replace traditional locks with smart lock technology.

✓ After a Break-In

If your lock was:

...replacement with a higher-security lock is essential. Rekeying a lock that failed to protect you once won't prevent future attempts.

Insurance consideration: Many insurance policies require lock replacement documentation after a break-in.

✓ Door Hardware Upgrade

If you want to:

...replacement is necessary since rekeying only affects the cylinder, not the visible hardware.

Cost Comparison: Real-World Scenarios

Scenario 1: Apartment Turnover

Situation: Tenant moved out, need to secure 1 entry door and 1 patio door

Rekeying option:

Replacement option:

Best choice: Rekeying (unless locks are worn or tenant damaged them)

Scenario 2: New Home Purchase

Situation: Just bought a house with 3 exterior doors, uncertain history

Rekeying option:

Replacement option:

Best choice: Rekey immediately upon moving in, then assess whether locks are adequate or should be upgraded over time.

Scenario 3: Break-In Damage

Situation: Someone forced your front door, damaging the lock

Rekeying option:

Replacement option:

Best choice: Replace with higher-security lock and reinforce door frame.

Scenario 4: Upgrading Security

Situation: Current locks are 15 years old, basic Grade 3

Rekeying option:

Replacement option:

Best choice: Replace with modern high-security locks.

What About High-Security Locks?

Not all locks can be rekeyed to work with standard keys. High-security locks like Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, and Abloy use:

Rekeying High-Security Locks:

Benefits Worth the Cost:

Can You Do It Yourself?

DIY Rekeying:

Theoretically possible but not recommended

Hardware stores sell rekeying kits for $15-30, but:

Reality: Most DIY rekeying attempts fail and result in calling a locksmith anyway—now with a damaged lock that costs more to fix.

Professional cost: $80-120 service call + $20-50 per lock

DIY risk: $30 for kit + potential $150-300 to replace lock you broke

DIY Lock Replacement:

More feasible for handy homeowners

If you're replacing a lock with the same brand/size:

Caution:

Professional benefit: Locksmith guarantees work and ensures proper security.

What to Expect: Professional Locksmith Service

Rekeying Service:

1. Assessment: Locksmith examines locks to verify they can be rekeyed

2. Key preference: You can provide a key you want to use, or locksmith cuts new keys

3. Rekeying: Locksmith rekeys each lock (usually on-site, sometimes removes cylinders)

4. Testing: Verifies new keys work properly and old keys no longer function

5. Documentation: Provides key tracking if desired

Timeframe: 15-30 minutes per lock

Lock Replacement Service:

1. Security consultation: Locksmith recommends appropriate locks for your needs

2. Hardware options: Shows different brands, styles, and security grades

3. Door assessment: Checks if door and frame can support new lock

4. Installation: Removes old lock and installs new one

5. Reinforcement: May recommend strike plate upgrades or door frame reinforcement

6. Testing: Ensures smooth operation and proper security

Timeframe: 30-60 minutes per lock

ASAP Mobile Locksmith MD: Expert Rekeying and Replacement

Services We Provide:

Our Process:

1. Free consultation: We assess your situation and explain options

2. Transparent pricing: Detailed estimate before work begins

3. Mobile service: We come to you (home or business)

4. Professional installation: Guaranteed work by certified technicians

5. Security advice: Recommendations based on your specific needs

Coverage Area:

24/7 Emergency Service:

Lockouts and security emergencies don't wait for business hours. We're available anytime you need us.

Making the Right Choice

Choose rekeying if:

Choose replacement if:

Not sure? We'll help you decide.

Call (443) 400-5125 for a free consultation. We'll assess your locks, explain your options, and provide honest recommendations based on your security needs and budget.

ASAP Mobile Locksmith MD serves all of Maryland with professional rekeying and lock replacement services you can trust.