Rekey vs Replacing Locks

There is often confusion around the topic of rekeying or replacing locks at a home or business. When you hear the phrase "change the locks," it is often misinterpreted as a need to replace the hardware. Thankfully, there is a much more practical and economical solution available.

If your hardware is malfunctioning or damaged, repair or replacement is the appropriate next step. If the hardware is functioning properly but you would like the lock to open with a different key, rekeying is the way to go. Whether your keys fell into the wrong hands, you just bought a house and want to ensure no former keyholders have access, or you need to ensure a former employee no longer has a working key to your business, rekeying can make it happen.

How does it work?

Inside your lock is a series of pins. These pins vary in length and correspond to the depth of each of the cuts in your key. When the right key is inserted into the lock, all the pins line up perfectly, allowing for the key to turn and the lock to open.

Pins are aliigned when the correct key is inserted

A locksmith can deconstruct your lock cylinder and swap out those pins, resulting in the need to cut a whole new key to match. The old key will no longer line up the pins, rendering the old key useless. You will then be provided with new keys and the knowledge that no one else has the keys to your home or business.

Why rekey?

The cost to rekey a lock is a small fraction of the cost to purchase all new hardware. A new home, new hire, or stolen purse already comes at the cost of time and money. Rekeying your locks is a great way to limit the toll these events can take.

Keep your style! Do you have a lockset that works well and looks great? Rekeying that lock enables you to keep the design you love without sacrificing the security you need.

What do I do next?

There are two ways to get your locks rekeyed. Your first option is to have us come to you! Rekeying services can be done at your location by scheduling a service call through our shop. Additionally, you can cut the cost even further if you feel comfortable removing the locks yourself! Remove the locks and drop them off at either of our shops in North Kingstown or Wakefield to have them rekeyed without paying extra for us to travel to you. Whichever method you choose, simply call us at (401) 885-7878 or submit a request right on our homepage to schedule your rekey.