Rekeying vs Changing Locks: What's the Difference?

Rekeying vs Changing Locks: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to securing your home in Sarasota, Florida, making the right choice between rekeying and changing locks is essential. SunTrust Locksmith is here to guide you through the process, ensuring that your home remains a fortress of security. Let’s delve into the distinctions between these two options and help you decide which is best for your specific situation.

Rekeying a Lock

Rekeying involves resetting the pins and springs inside the lock to work with a different key. The lock assembly stays intact, making it an ideal choice when the lock itself is in good condition. This is commonly done when you need a new key for the same lock or if your key is lost or stolen.

Pros and Cons of Rekeying

Pro: Affordability Rekeying is a budget-friendly option, with costs ranging from $20 to $60. Even more complex locks can be rekeyed at a reasonable price.

Pro: Quick and Easy The process of rekeying is swift, typically taking as little as 10 minutes. It provides a speedy solution for enhanced security.

Con: Does Not Fix Faulty Mechanism Rekeying won’t address mechanical issues within the lock assembly. If your lock is showing signs of wear and tear, a complete lock replacement may be necessary.

Changing Locks

Changing locks involves replacing the entire locking mechanism with a new one. This is a suitable choice if your existing lock is worn out, malfunctioning, or if you desire a different style of lock for your home.

Pros and Cons of Changing Locks

Pro: Enhanced Security Changing locks allows you to upgrade your home security by choosing from a variety of options, including traditional deadbolts, keypad locks, smart locks, and even biometric locks.

Con: Expense Depending on the type of lock, changing locks can be more expensive. The cost includes both the locksmith’s service and the price of the new lock, especially if it’s a technologically advanced model.

When to Rekey and When to Change a Lock

In most cases, rekeying is a cost-effective solution that provides renewed security. If you’ve recently moved into a new home or if your key is lost, rekeying is usually sufficient. However, if your lock mechanism is showing signs of deterioration, opting for a lock change might be more prudent.

How to Rekey a Lock

Rekeying a lock is a straightforward process. You’ll need a lock rekeying kit, screwdriver, pliers, and a flashlight. Follow these steps to rekey your lock:

1. Remove the lock from its mounting plate.
2. Take out the lock cylinder using a screwdriver.
3. Insert rekeying pins into the lock cylinder as per the kit’s instructions.
4. Use pliers to compress the pins into the cylinder.
5. Reassemble the lock and replace the mounting plate.

How to Change a Lock

For a standard door lock change, you’ll need a screwdriver, a new lock, and a drill. Here’s a brief guide:

1. Unscrew and remove the old lock.
2. Use the drill to make any necessary holes in the door’s edge.
3. Place the new lock in the door, aligning it with the holes.
4. Secure it in place by screwing it in with the screwdriver.
5. Test the lock to ensure proper functionality.

Contact SunTrust Locksmith for Lock Changing Services in Sarasota, Florida

For expert lock changing services in Sarasota, Florida, trust SunTrust Locksmith to provide reliable and efficient solutions. Our experienced locksmiths are ready to enhance the security of your home with top-notch lock replacement services. Contact us today for a safer and more secure living environment.

Whether you require key duplications, car fob/remote programming, or other locksmith services, SunTrust Locksmith in Sarasota is ready to assist you. Serving Sarasota, Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, Siesta Key, Osprey, and more, SunTrust Locksmith ensures swift responses, competitive prices, and unrivaled services. Contact SunTrust Locksmith today for professional assistance with any of your locksmith needs, and experience the difference in quality and reliability.