Securing your New York City home or business starts with reliable locks. But if you’ve lost keys, moved into a new property, or want to upgrade security, you may wonder: Should I rekey my locks or opt for a full lock change?
At Rainbow Locksmith NY, we help NYC residents and business owners choose the best security solution. In this guide, we’ll compare rekeying vs. lock change, their pros and cons, and which option fits your needs.
Rekeying adjusts a lock’s internal mechanism to work with a new key, making old keys useless. A locksmith modifies the pins or tumblers without replacing the entire lock.
Lost or Stolen Keys: Prevent unauthorized access without replacing locks.
Moving into a New Property: Ensure previous owners or tenants can’t enter.
Employee or Tenant Turnover: Quickly revoke access when someone leaves.
Budget-Friendly Security Update: More affordable than a full lock change.
✔ Cost-effective: Cheaper than replacing locks.
✔ Fast process: Takes minutes per lock.
✔ Keeps existing hardware: No need for new installations.
✖ Doesn’t improve lock quality: Won’t fix worn-out or weak locks.
✖ Not for damaged locks: If the lock is broken, replacement is necessary.
A lock change means removing the old lock and installing a brand-new one with a different key and mechanism. This is ideal for upgrading security or replacing faulty locks.
Damaged or Worn-Out Locks: If keys stick or locks jam, replacement is best.
Upgrading Security: Switching to high-security, smart, or keyless locks.
After a Break-In: Ensures compromised locks are no longer a risk.
Changing Lock Style: If you want a new design or brand.
✔ Enhanced security: Newer, stronger locks deter break-ins.
✔ Smart lock upgrades: Keyless entry, remote access, and advanced features.
✔ Eliminates weak points: Old or damaged locks are fully replaced.
✖ More expensive than rekeying: Higher upfront cost.
✖ Takes longer to install: Requires full removal and replacement.
Both options enhance security, but the right choice depends on your specific needs. Rekeying is ideal when your hardware is in good condition and you just need new keys. A full lock change is better for upgrading security or replacing worn-out locks.
Not sure which route to take? Let our expert locksmiths at Rainbow Locksmith guide you. We offer affordable rekeying services and high-quality lock installations throughout New York.
Whether you choose rekeying or a complete lock change, you can count on Rainbow Locksmith for reliable service, transparent pricing, and fast response times. Contact us today for a free consultation or to schedule service!
Yes, rekeying is just as secure if your current locks are in good condition. It changes the internal pins so old keys no longer work.
Rekeying is a good choice if your locks still work and you just want to change key access, such as after moving. If your locks are damaged, worn out, or you want a different style or higher security, a lock change is better.
Yes, rekeying usually costs less. It keeps your existing hardware and only changes the key pattern. Lock replacement involves buying and installing new locks.
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Rekeying a lock typically takes 15 to 30 minutes. Replacing a lock can take a little longer depending on the type of lock and number of doors.
Yes, as long as the locks are compatible, they can be rekeyed to work with a single key. This makes things simpler and more convenient.
Some smart locks with mechanical key backups can be rekeyed. If not, you can replace them with new models that better suit your needs.
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