When to replace locks

Sometimes people are surprised at the idea of replacing locks. After all, locks are supposed to be sturdy and able to withstand lots of stress. They are made of metal and are exposed to the elements for much of their use, so why aren’t they built to last? The truth is, that locks are built to last and lock failure is not the only reason to replace them. There is no one, hard, fast rule to lock replacement as each case has its own merits and circumstances. What is right for your locks may not be applicable at all to your neighbor.

Lock replacement

An actual lock replacement is just that; the replacing of the lock. You (or your locksmith) takes the existing lock out and replaces it fully with another one. This service is not to be confused with a rekey service which is totally different. To add to the confusion, the term “change the locks” is used by folks for both services. It’s easy to say “change the locks” after a tenant has moved out and run off with the key, or when you’ve lost your house key and fear that whoever found it might make copies. A literal lock change is the same as a lock replacement. This means that a new and completely different lock is installed in place of the old one. One benefit of lock change or replacement is that only new keys can be used. All old keys to the previous lock are void and that means that all key holders must now get a new copy or give up their access. If you have lots of older keys issued to family members, neighbors, previous tenants, contractors, property managers, builders, delivery persons, friends, or guests, then lock replacement is the perfect way to make all of those keys null and void. On the other hand, the cost of full lock replacement is higher than simply rekeying the lock.

Rekeys

When a rekey is done, the present lock is left in place and only the inside pins and tumblers are altered so that only new keys work to open it. Rekey service is handy for saving money as the lock is left in place and no new hardware is needed to buy or install. You get all of the many benefits of replacing those old keys along with the money savings of leaving your lock in place.

It’s up to you

Before you decide whether to replace or rekey your lock, take a moment to consider your goals. Let’s say you are selling your home and want better locks on the door as a selling point. You would upgrade to a higher quality lock even if your present lock was fine. This would require a lock replacement. Maybe you want to spend less but still be able to tell your buyers that they’ll get brand new keys to the place. In this case, you would rekey the lock and save money over replacement. Your new buyers would still get new keys, but you wouldn’t have the added expense of actually replacing the lock. Don’t worry; you don’t have to decide all by yourself! One advantage of working with a full service locksmith shop like ours is that we offer free consultations and price quotes. You can call our technicians and discuss your lock needs and plans with us. We can point out the benefits and drawbacks involved and help you make an informed and professional decision that works for you and your goals and budget.

Some good options for you

If you are thinking of upgrading your locks, consider replacing them with bump proof or high security locksets. The majority of homeowners think that their door locks are adequate for basic protection. The truth is that these door locks are only there to fulfil a legal requirement for the builder to supply one upon initial sale. They are not meant to offer the highest caliber of home security or protection. Many of these locks are easy to smash, pry or pick open in mere seconds. It’s not just experienced home invaders, thieves or burglars that can do this, either. These basic door locks are so easy to bypass that teens and pranksters can get past them in no time at all. Do you want to upgrade? Talk to your locksmith about bump proof or high security locks. They are virtually impossible to bypass by picking, prying, smashing or even shooting open. These locks come in many forms and models and most of them are quite affordable so be sure to ask about them and explore your many options!