Rekey vs. replace
A pin-tumbler lock opens when the right key lifts a set of small pins to exactly the right heights. When we rekey, we take the cylinder apart and swap those pins for a new combination, then cut new keys to match. The lock looks and works the same, but every old key stops working.
Rekeying is usually the more economical choice when your locks are in good shape and you simply want to control who has a key. Replacing makes sense when the hardware is worn, damaged, low quality, or you want a different style or a smart lock.
When to rekey
- You just bought a home. You have no idea how many copies the previous owners, contractors, dog walkers or neighbors still have.
- A tenant moved out of a rental, apartment or duplex you manage.
- Keys were lost or stolen, especially along with something that shows your address.
- A roommate, employee or contractor who had a key no longer should.
- You're tired of a pocketful of keys. If your locks share a compatible keyway, we can rekey them all to work with one key.
One key for the whole house
Front door deadbolt, back door knob, garage entry, storage room: matching them all to a single key is one of the most popular requests we get. Most common residential brands can be keyed alike if they use the same keyway. If some don't, we'll tell you which ones and what your options are.
Rekeying for landlords and businesses
For rental turnovers and businesses, we can rekey on a schedule that works for you. For businesses that need different access for different people, see our commercial locksmith page for master key systems.
Frequently asked questions
Is rekeying cheaper than replacing locks?
Usually, yes, when the existing locks are in good working condition, because you keep the hardware and only the internal pins and keys change. Call for a quote on your locks.
Can all my locks use the same key?
If they share a compatible keyway, which is common with major residential brands, yes. We'll check each lock and tell you which ones can be keyed alike.
Should I rekey after buying a house?
It's one of the most common reasons people rekey. There's no way to know how many copies of the old keys are still out there.
Can you rekey a smart lock or keypad lock?
Many keypad and smart deadbolts have a standard key cylinder as a backup, and that cylinder can usually be rekeyed. It depends on the model.