When should you rekey your locks instead of replacing them completely? Learn the pros, cons, and considerations for each option from Asheville’s trusted locksmith experts.
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Rekeying vs. Replacing: Making the Right Choice for Your Home Locks
Understanding Your Lock Security Options
When it comes to securing your home, the decision between rekeying or completely replacing your locks isn’t always straightforward. At A.L. Odom Locksmiths, we guide homeowners through this important security choice every day. Whether you’ve just moved into a new home, lost your keys, or simply want to upgrade your security, knowing the difference between these two services can save you time, money, and provide the right level of protection for your specific situation. As Asheville’s only brick-and-mortar locksmith shop, we’ve helped countless Western North Carolina families make informed decisions about their home security.
What Does Rekeying Actually Mean?
Rekeying is a process where we keep your existing lock hardware but change the internal pins and springs in the lock cylinder. This creates a new key that works with your existing lock, while rendering old keys useless. Think of it as giving your lock a fresh start without replacing the entire mechanism.
This option works well when your lock is in good condition mechanically but you need to change who has access. Common situations for rekeying include:
- You’ve just purchased a home and don’t know who might have copies of your keys
- You’ve recently had a roommate move out
- A set of keys has been lost or stolen
- You want all your home’s locks to work with a single key
When Complete Lock Replacement Makes More Sense
While rekeying changes the internal workings, replacement involves installing entirely new lock hardware. Gene Riddle, who oversees our daily operations, recommends replacement in several specific scenarios.
Consider replacement when:
- Your current locks show significant wear, damage, or mechanical issues
- You’re looking to upgrade to a higher security grade lock
- You want to transition to smart locks or electronic access systems
- The style or finish of your current locks doesn’t match your home’s aesthetic
- Your locks are outdated and no longer provide adequate security
Comparing Costs: Budget Considerations
Cost often plays a significant role in this decision. Rekeying is typically more economical since you’re only changing the internal components rather than the entire lock assembly. For homeowners managing multiple locks on a budget, rekeying offers substantial savings while still providing renewed security.
Lock replacement represents a higher initial investment but may prove more cost-effective long-term if your current locks are deteriorating or lack modern security features. Our technicians can help evaluate whether the condition of your locks justifies replacement now or if rekeying would suffice for the time being.
Security Implications to Consider
Both options can provide security, but in different ways. Rekeying ensures that old keys no longer work, immediately addressing concerns about unauthorized access from previous key holders. However, the security grade of your lock remains unchanged.
Replacement allows you to upgrade to higher security grade locks with features like bump resistance, pick resistance, and reinforced strike plates. For homes with outdated or builder-grade locks, replacement often represents a significant security enhancement that goes beyond simply changing who has access.
The A.L. Odom Consultation Approach
We believe in helping customers make informed decisions rather than pushing for the more expensive option. When you call us about your locks, we’ll ask questions about your specific situation:
- What prompted your need for lock service?
- How old are your current locks?
- Have you noticed any issues with operation?
- What level of security are you comfortable with?
- Do you have any interest in smart lock technology?
After understanding your needs, we provide honest recommendations focused on your security, not our sales. This consultative approach has built our reputation throughout Western North Carolina as a trustworthy security partner.
Get Expert Advice on Your Home Lock Options
Not sure which option is right for your home? Our team at A.L. Odom Locksmiths is ready to help. As the only brick-and-mortar locksmith shop in the Asheville area, we bring unmatched expertise to every home security consultation. Contact us today at (828) 259-5397 for personalized guidance on whether rekeying or replacement makes more sense for your situation. Your protection is our business, and we’re committed to helping you make the right choice for your home’s security.