Is It Better To Rekey Or Change Locks?

Locks are integral parts of any home’s security system and the first line of defence against thefts, robberies, trespassing and privacy invasions. When moving into a new house or saying goodbye to a roommate, changing the locks is the first thing that comes to mind of tenants. There is also an option for rekeying which is the process of making the old key obsolete without changing the locks. Homeowners who have lived in the same property for years also struggle to choose between these options.

You can hire a professional locksmith in Australia to manage rekeying or changing of locks in your house. To help you know which option would be better, here is a complete guide providing useful insights.

Changing Locks Vs. Rekeying Locks

Both are viable options when you want to stop using the old keys of your home, and you can take the assistance of a professional locksmith to manage them. Changing locks is the process of taking out the old locking systems from doors and installing new ones. Rekeying is done when the locks are stable and in good condition, but you want to replace the old keys. Choosing any of these options is based on various factors such as the state of the locks, house upgrades, safety issues, etc.

When To Rekey Lock?

Getting a new key for locks in your home is less invasive and complex than changing the entire fixture. A professional locksmith can do this activity within a few hours by replacing the tumblers and pins to make a new locking pattern that the old key cannot open. Go for this option for the following reasons.

• You want to have the same keys for all the locks in your home rather than move around with a bunch of different ones. If the lock brands and the keyholes of the security fixtures in your home are the same, you can opt for rekeying.
• After moving into a new home, everyone wants to be the only person with the key to their home. In such situations, you consider replacing the keys instead of the locks.
• If you lost your house keys and it worries you, someone might find and use them.
• Replacing the keys of locks is a practical solution when a roommate, relative or friend has keys to your home and is moving.
• It is also a good idea when a housekeeper, babysitter, gardner or any other professional service provider with keys to your home is no longer employed by you.
• When you want to have multiple keys for a lock to allow every household member to have a spare with them.

When To Change The Locks?

Changing the locks of your property is more tiring and time-consuming than rekeying, but in the following circumstances, it is the better option.

• You want to upgrade the locking systems in your homes for increased security and safety.
• The old locks are broken and beyond repair.
• The locks in your house are of different brands with different mechanics, and you want all the locks to be by the same company and reduce the number of keys you carry.
• The quality of the current locks has degraded over the years, and you haven’t changed them for a long time.
• The locks have become rusty due to environmental exposure, and their structural integrity is not good. Sometimes the locks can look unchanged from the outside and corrode from the inside. Thus, if you spot rust deposits on keys or the lock is difficult to turn, hire an experienced locksmith in Australia to inspect the locks and change them as per requirement.
• You want to have smart locks in your house that you can monitor remotely and keep records. It is the better option when you avail services of housekeepers, babysitters, gardeners etc.

Seek Professional Help

Although changing simple locks is possible with general tools, you should hire a professional locksmith in Australia if you lack the knowledge or understanding. When upgrading to a better locking system in your home or rekeying locks don’t attempt to do them yourself. These activities require expertise and years of practice. Additionally, specialists have the necessary tools and equipment to install the intricate lock mechanisms for replacing or installing new ones.

For smart locking system instalment in your property, you will need the services of a professional because they can manage the task adequately. They can set up the locks and connect them to your devices. This process includes setting passwords, feeding fingerprints for locking/unlocking, and taking care of other aspects.

The Bottom Line

Locks are crucial for maintaining personal safety and privacy of your household. When these fixtures become old, broken or beyond repair, you have the option of changing the locks. When the locks are intact, but you want to change the keys, rekeying is the better option. However, if you are confused, use the guide shared above to learn what is better to rekey or change locks.