Re-keying your locks after a move or break-in is an important step in ensuring the security of your home. When you move into a new home, you never know who may have had access to the keys before you. And if your home has been broken into, it’s likely that the thief may have copied your keys or discovered where you hide them. In either case, re-keying your locks is the best way to ensure that your home is secure.
What is Rekeying?
Re-keying is the process of changing the internal mechanism of a lock so that it works with a new key. This is different from replacing a lock, which involves installing a brand new lock altogether. Re-keying is usually more cost-effective and can be done more quickly. It’s also a good idea to re-key your locks if you lose your keys or if they fall into the wrong hands.
Different Rekeying Types
There are a few different ways to re-key your locks, depending on the type of lock you have. The most common types of locks include:
- Pin tumbler locks: These are the most common type of locks and are typically found on residential properties. They work by having a series of pins that need to be pushed into the right position to turn the lock. To re-key a pin tumbler lock, you’ll need to disassemble the lock and change the pins to match a new key.
- Wafer tumbler locks: These are similar to pin tumbler locks but have wafers instead of pins. They’re typically found on commercial properties and can be re-keyed in the same way as pin tumbler locks.
- Lever locks: These locks are less common but are often found on older properties. They work by having a series of levers that need to be pushed into the right position to turn the lock. To re-key a lever lock, you’ll need to remove the lock and change the levers to match a new key.
- Smart locks: This kind of locks uses technology, such as Bluetooth, Wifi or keypad to open and close the lock, the re-keying process is different and might require an electrician or a locksmith specialized in smart locks.
If you’re not comfortable re-keying your locks yourself, it’s best to call a professional locksmith. A locksmith can re-key your locks quickly and efficiently, and will also be able to advise you on the best type of lock for your needs.
Re-keying your locks is an easy and effective way to improve the security of your home. By ensuring that only you and your trusted family and friends have the keys to your home, you can rest easy knowing that your property is protected.
