Rekeying or Lock Repair, Which Option Is Better?
Rekey locks or repair for the same key could be a viable option as soon as you see the first signs of defective locks. Most people assume existing locks often require replacement, as repairs are too complicated and may cost more. In reality, to rekey locks, you’ll probably pay less.
The truth is replacing high security locks is a last resort. People choose this option because they’d rather try a DIY project. But then, you can rekey locks, use the same key in the same lock, and rely on the same security system if you choose to repair it.
Our professional locksmith services at Bravo Locksmith will assess the situation, key pins, and current matching key before making a recommendation. Repairs are just as effective and cheaper, but you usually need an expert to do it.
On the other hand, rekeying locks allows you to retain the lock itself while making it compatible with new keys, which is ideal in the event of key loss. The option to rekey locks becomes more and more valid these days, as it saves money and improves security.
Pros and Cons of Hiring a Locksmith to Replace or Rekey a Lock
DIY projects are alright if you know a few things about how to change locks and get different keys. But rekeying locks, even if you use the same brand, is a different thing. A replacement does have its pros, though, since you won’t need to worry about all the locks in your home for a while.
Plus, it may seem pretty straightforward if you get the same brand door locks. To change locks, you don’t need sophisticated tools, yet experience is important.
On the other hand, hiring a locksmith means you may not have to change the door locks, but just repair the existing lock or lock cylinder. Every locksmith will come with a lock rekeying kit to attempt a repair. Sure, in the end, if the issue is too bad, you may still need lock replacing, but that’s a last resort.
The idea to rekey implies changing how the lock interacts with keys. It’s recommended to rekey after moving into a new place, or if you’ve lost a key.
At Bravo Locksmith, we’ll try to give you the most cost effective solution, whether you have electronic locks, digital locks, or a smart lock mechanism. Sure, hiring a locksmith for lock rekeying won’t be free, but at least you have an expert to assess the job and provide a high quality result. The same goes when you want to change locks, cut a new key, or just replace the old key.
To rekey a lock, we’ll need less time, and the job is not as messy as a replacement.
Pros and Cons of Buying a New Set of Locks
A new lock comes with numerous advantages, but most importantly, you’ll start fresh. The old hardware will be replaced and new hardware is likely to last for decades if well looked after. It’s an excellent upgrade for any property, not to mention the possibility of an upgrade.
When you get a new system, you can upgrade to digital or even smart solutions. Modern systems are more advanced than ever, but for such an upgrade, chances are you’ll need to upgrade the hardware as well. In other words, it’s totally worth the investment.
On the other hand, replacing the whole system over a quick repair will clearly cost you more. At this point, you’ll need to determine whether or not the upgrade is worth it, but also consider your available budget. When upgrading a system and replacing hardware, it’s wiser to leave the job to an expert, rather than try to do it yourself.
Our experts will give you a deep insight into each option, so you can make a more informed decision.
Cost Comparison to Changing Your Locks Vs. Rekey a Lock
The cost to replace an old key with a new key, as well as the basic lock, will depend on what kind of system you have. For example, when changing your locks, you may opt for a better security system as an upgrade, too, which will obviously cost more. Changing your locks and keeping the same type will be cheaper.
New locks will always cost more than repairing old different locks if the key pins inside are stuck, or the old lock feels jammed. A quick repair implies the option to rekey lock, cut a matching key, or perhaps replace the defective part, meaning it’s cheaper than the option to replace locks.
Indeed, new locks and house keys will provide more durability, but there’s no point of getting a new lock if the current one can be repaired. It’s just as important to allow a professional to check the situation and figure out the best option due to the extra experience.
At Bravo Locksmith, we’ll give you at least a few different options for your rekey or replacement problem, but we’ll also help you understand the pros and cons of each option, whether it’s to rekey a lock or completely replace it. This way, you’ll make a more informed decision.
Keep in mind that getting locks rekeyed implies having the hardware in good condition.
Security Implications Regarding Your Locks & Home Warranty
Better security is often the main reason you’ll need a locksmith. You don’t want to go to sleep when your lock feels jammed or your keys are stuck inside, do you? On the other hand, investing in different keys may also imply having an upgrade, especially if you’re after a specific key or type.
When you get locks rekeyed, a locksmith will allow you to use the same house locks by working on the existing hardware. The operation is less expensive and often quicker. If the hardware is in good condition, professional locksmiths will try to keep the current locks.
But at the same time, the cheaper solution doesn’t always come with an upgrade. In some cases, you could improve security while using the same hardware. But if keeping the same lock implies you can’t get an upgrade, it may not necessarily come as an improvement.
With these thoughts in mind, if you want a proper upgrade, keeping the same type of lock could not be an option. Our locksmith swaps hardware and offers access to smart or digital locks, too, depending on your security needs.
At Bravo Locksmith, we also stock different brands, only to ensure you get exactly what you want in terms of locks. We stock different types of electronic, digital, and smart locks as well. Plus, when installed by an expert, our locks won’t void your home warranty.
Situational Recommendations About Your Locks
Based on your specific locks and key needs, you’ll get different recommendations. Lost a single key? Got one key stuck inside a lock? Jamming locks? If you still have a working key, a locksmith can cut a different key based on it, restoring access to the property. It makes no difference what kind of locks you have.
When you lose keys, your security needs are clearly affected, not to mention compromising your home warranty. At this point, it makes more sense to get a new lock. We’ll introduce you to different types of locks, so you’ll know precisely what to pick.
On the other hand, if keys don’t work anymore or your key is stuck inside, you can secure your new home locks with a quick repair. There are several factors to consider when deciding between a repair and a replacement, but either way, it’s an easy procedure for any security locksmith out there.
Re keying is an option when the problem affects you only and there are no risks in terms of security, such as someone finding your keys.
On the other hand, if you break a key inside the lock or the hardware is compromised, repairs may not always be the best choice. At Bravo Locksmith, we’ll bring the right tools to inspect the lock and determine what’s better for your higher security, rekeying or replacing the door lock.
If you do have to replace it, you might as well opt for an upgrade or a more technologically advanced system for higher security.
DIY Rekeying vs. Professional Installation of Locks
A door rekey DIY project for your new home is time-consuming, whether you need to rekey or replace a lock. Besides, unless you know what you’re doing, rekeying or replacing door locks is not a secure job. The lack of experience may also expose you to numerous issues, such as security problems or perhaps a wrongful installation that may cause even more trouble in the long run.
On a more positive note, doing it yourself will save you some money for the labor. However, you’ll still have to pay for parts, not to mention the tools needed for such a project. As for rekeying door locks for your new home, the job requires even more expertise.
In comparison, a professional installation will be flawless if you choose a reputable locksmith. You’ll have a guarantee as well, so there are no issues there. It will cost more than doing it yourself, indeed, but you’ll pay for a locksmith’s experience, knowledge, and tools.
From many points of view, unless you’re a trained locksmith, there are no reasons to do it yourself.
Replacement could be an option for the door, but rekeying your locks is usually out of discussion.
Long-Term Considerations when Rekeying Locks
Replacing a lock means you won’t have to worry about it for a while. Simply put, it’s new, so maintenance is reduced to a minimum. Besides, if you invest in a quality brand and the lock is professionally installed, it’s likely to last for ages. Rekeying may still be needed if you lose keys, not to mention rekeying locks when moving into a new home.
Repairing a lock is a cheaper option. You won’t have the possibility to upgrade too many things, but at least you’ll get the lock to work again. And rekeying also means it needs new keys. When replaced and cleaned professionally, it should be nearly as good as a new lock, yet it’s less likely to last that much.
On the same note, repairing a lock means you’ll still have to maintain it and look after it. It’s a less expensive option, so it’s great if you can’t afford an upgrade right now. It may not give you as many options in the future, but at least you have a secure working lock.
To re key a lock, a locksmith will also require less time, so it’s cheaper from this point of view, too.
All these considerations depend on the types of locks and systems you have as well. It’s difficult to understand the unique circumstances of your situation. At Bravo Locksmith, we’ll explore all the benefits and drawbacks of a new lock or a repaired one.
Things like the brand, the type, or the system will also affect the final result. We’ll assess the situation and make a recommendation based on your needs. We’ll rekey, repair, and replace locks on request, whether you have an emergency or you’re just maintaining your lock.
