If you’ve lost your keys, moved into a new property or become concerned about who may still have access to your home or business, you might assume that replacing the locks is your only option.
But that’s not always necessary.
In many situations, a locksmith can rekey locks instead. Rekeying allows you to keep the existing lock hardware while changing the internal mechanism so the old keys no longer work.
So, when comparing rekeying vs replacing locks, which option saves more money? The answer depends largely on the condition of your existing locks and what you want to achieve.
What Is Rekeying a Lock?
Rekeying changes the internal configuration of an existing lock so it operates with a new key.
The lock itself generally stays in place, but any previous keys will no longer open it.
Rekeying can be particularly useful when:
- You’ve lost a set of keys
- Your keys have been stolen
- You’ve moved into a new home
- A tenant has moved out
- An employee has left a business
- You don’t know who has copies of existing keys
If your current locks are still in good condition, having a locksmith rekey locks can provide you with a new set of keys without unnecessarily replacing otherwise serviceable hardware.
What Does Replacing a Lock Involve?
Replacing a lock is exactly what it sounds like: the existing locking hardware is removed and a new lock is installed.
This may be necessary when the current lock is:
- Damaged after an attempted break-in
- Old or badly worn
- Continually sticking or failing
- No longer providing adequate security
- Being replaced as part of a security upgrade
Lock replacement also gives you an opportunity to move to a different style or higher-security locking solution.
The important distinction is that rekeying changes who can use the lock, while replacement changes the lock itself.
Benefits of Rekeying Your Locks
The biggest advantage of rekeying is that you can restore control over your keys without paying for completely new lock hardware.
It can be more economical
Because you’re retaining your existing locks, there are generally fewer new components required. Amalgamated Locksmiths notes that rekeying may be the better option where a lock isn’t damaged and the main concern is that someone else could still have a key.
Old keys stop working
This is particularly important after losing keys or moving into a property. You don’t necessarily need new locks simply because you don’t know who has an old key.
Multiple locks can potentially be simplified
Depending on the locks installed, a locksmith may be able to configure compatible locks so they operate from the same key, reducing the number of keys you need to carry.
For homeowners unsure about their current security, a professional residential locksmith can assess the existing locks before recommending whether rekeying or replacement is appropriate.
Benefits of Replacing Your Locks
While rekeying can save money in the right circumstances, there are situations where spending more on replacement provides better value.
You can upgrade your security
Older locks may still technically work but may not offer the level of security you want today. Replacement gives you the opportunity to choose stronger or more suitable hardware.
Damaged locks shouldn’t simply be rekeyed
If a lock has significant physical damage, replacing it may be the safer long-term option. This is particularly important after forced entry or an attempted break-in.
Worn locks can become unreliable
Locks are mechanical products, and years of daily use can eventually cause components to wear.
If you’re regularly struggling to turn the key or operate the lock, investing in replacement may make more sense than continuing to repair an ageing lock.
What About Commercial Properties?
The same principles apply to businesses, but key management can be more complicated.
If an employee leaves with a key, rekeying selected locks may be enough to restore security. However, businesses experiencing repeated problems with uncontrolled keys may need to consider a more structured system.
A master key system can help businesses control access across different doors and areas, while restricted keys can provide tighter control over authorised duplication.
This can be particularly useful for offices, warehouses, retail premises and multi-site businesses.
Rekeying vs Replacing Locks: Which Saves More Money?
In most straightforward situations, rekeying is likely to be the more economical option if your existing locks are secure, compatible and in good working condition.
You’re changing the key access without paying to replace perfectly functional hardware.
However, the cheapest immediate option isn’t necessarily the best long-term value.
If your locks are old, damaged, unreliable or no longer suitable for the level of security you require, replacing them now may prevent further repairs and provide better protection.
A useful rule of thumb is:
Good lock + key security problem = consider rekeying.
Damaged, worn or inadequate lock = consider replacement.
Get Professional Advice Before Changing Your Locks
There’s no reason to replace good-quality locks unnecessarily, but there’s equally little value in rekeying hardware that really needs to be replaced.
At Amalgamated Locksmiths, our experienced Melbourne locksmiths can inspect your existing locks and explain which approach makes the most sense for your property and budget. The company provides rekeying, lock changes and lock repairs for both residential and commercial properties across Melbourne.
Whether you’ve lost your keys, moved into a new property, experienced a break-in or simply want better security, we’ll help you determine whether rekeying, repairing or replacing your locks is the right solution.
Call Amalgamated Locksmiths on (03) 9419 6922 to arrange an assessment or speak with an experienced locksmith about the most cost-effective way to secure your property.