For home security, your locks are your line of defence to keep your home secure. What happens when you misplace your keys, move into a new house, or have a security breach-in? Do you rekey or replace them?

Most individuals are unaware of how to select locksmith service in their case. We will explain the differences between lock rekeying and replacement so you could make an appropriate decision regarding your security in this article.

What Is Rekeying a Lock

Rekeying is a process for changing the internal tumblers and pins within the lock so that the old keys don't work. You will have your locking system reprogrammed by a locksmith and new keys, but not the lock.

When to Rekey Your Locks?

Rekeying is an affordable and speedy means to secure your facility without having to replace the lock. Rekey if:

You've just moved homes – You have no clue how many duplicates of the original keys are floating around. Rekeying makes sure that only you can get in.

You've lost your keys – If your keys are misplaced and you're concerned that the other person can get in, rekeying makes it impossible for them to get in.

You'd like all locks to use the same key – If you've got more than one lock but wish that a single key could unlock them all, rekeying is your solution.

You've lost a tenant, roommate, or employee – If the individual who possessed keys to your property no longer wishes to stay there, rekeying is the most intelligent thing you can do.

Advantages of Rekeying:

  • Less expensive than having a new lock put in
  • Quicker process – A locksmith will rekey locks in minutes
  • Saves your current hardware – No new lock installations

What Is Lock Replacement?

Lock replacement is where you take out the lock and put in a new lock. This will give you a new lock and new keys.

When Do You Need to Replace Your Locks?

It's an option when:

Your lock is tampered with or old – Faulty locks are easy to snap or pick. A replacement lock is more secure.

You are replacing to high-security locks – Upgrade to anti-snap locks, keyless locking systems, or smart locks.

Your home was burgled – Since your locks would have been forced open, replacement provides you with maximum security.

Your lock is outdated and not to today's standards of security – New locks are more secure than old locks.

Advantages of Replacing Your Locks:

Improved security – New locks are more secure against intruders

Upgrade choices available – You can install smart locks or high-security deadbolts

Good for broken or malfunctioning locks

What Locksmith Service Do You Need to Hire?

With the knowledge on the difference between lock replacement and rekeying, which is ideal for you?

  • Select rekeying if your locks are in working condition and you simply require new keys for security purposes. It is less expensive and faster.
  • Select replacement of locks if your locks are broken, damaged, or if you wish to replace them. This gives you more long-term security.

If unsure, there is a professional locksmith in High Wycombe who can inspect your locks and recommend the most appropriate for you.

Both rekeying and replacing locks are great ways to enhance your home's security, but the right choice depends on your situation. If you've recently moved, lost your keys, or had a security concern, rekeying is a fast and affordable fix. However, if your locks are outdated or damaged, replacing them is a more secure long-term investment.