The Question Every Homeowner Faces
You've just moved in. Or a roommate moved out. Or you lost a key. Now you're wondering: should you rekey the locks or replace them entirely?
The short answer: rekeying is usually the better choice. It's cheaper, faster, and does the job in most situations. But there are times when replacing is the right move. Here's how to decide.
What Is Rekeying?
Rekeying changes the internal pins of a lock so that a different key operates it. Your old key stops working, and you get new keys. The lock hardware stays in place — only the pins inside the cylinder are changed.
A locksmith can rekey most standard locks in 10-15 minutes per lock. The cost is typically $40-$100 per lock.
What Is Lock Replacement?
Replacement means removing the entire lock and installing a new one. This costs more ($75-$250+ per lock, including hardware and labor) but gives you a brand-new lock with new keys, new finish, and potentially better security.
When to Rekey
- You just moved into a new home. You don't know who has copies of the old key — neighbors, the previous owner's contractor, a housekeeper. Rekeying makes the old keys useless.
- A roommate or tenant moved out. They may have made copies. Rekeying ensures they can't get back in.
- You lost a key. If a key is missing, rekeying prevents anyone who finds it from using it.
- Your locks work fine but you want new keys. No need to replace working hardware.
- You want all locks on the same key. If you have multiple locks with different keys, a locksmith can rekey them to all operate with a single key.
When to Replace
- Your locks are old or worn. If the key sticks, the deadbolt is hard to turn, or the finish is corroded, the lock is failing. Replacing it gives you fresh, reliable hardware.
- You want to upgrade security. If your current locks are Grade 3 or no-name hardware, replacing with Grade 1 deadbolts (Schlage, Medeco) significantly improves your home's security.
- Your locks are damaged. If someone tried to force the door, the cylinder is bent, or the bolt doesn't extend properly, rekeying won't fix the damage. Replace.
- You want smart locks. Upgrading to a keypad or app-controlled lock requires replacement, not rekeying.
- Your locks use restricted keyways. Some high-security locks (Medeco, Mul-T-Lock) have restricted key blanks that only authorized dealers can cut. If you don't have access to that dealer, replacing with a different brand may be easier.
Cost Comparison
| Option | Cost per Lock | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Rekeying | $40 – $100 | 10-15 min |
| Replace (standard) | $75 – $150 | 20-30 min |
| Replace (high-security) | $150 – $300+ | 30-45 min |
| Replace (smart lock) | $150 – $400+ | 30-60 min |
Can You Rekey It Yourself?
Some locks, like Kwikset with SmartKey technology, are designed for DIY rekeying — you can rekey them in about 5 minutes with the included tool and a new key. However, most standard locks (Schlage, Yale, Medeco) require a locksmith's pin kit and expertise to rekey properly.
If you have multiple locks to rekey, a locksmith can do them all in one visit and key them alike (one key opens all). That's hard to do yourself without the right tools.
The Verdict
Default to rekeying. It's cheaper and faster, and it solves the most common problem: making old keys useless.
Replace when: your locks are old, damaged, or you want to upgrade security. If you're already replacing, consider jumping to Grade 1 deadbolts — the price difference isn't huge, and the security improvement is significant.
FAQ
How much does it cost to rekey a house?
Rekeying typically costs $40-$100 per lock. For a house with 3 exterior doors, budget $120-$300. A locksmith can key all locks alike in one visit.
Can I rekey my own locks?
Kwikset SmartKey locks can be rekeyed by homeowners in about 5 minutes. Most other brands (Schlage, Yale, Medeco) require a locksmith with a pin kit. If you have multiple locks, a locksmith can key them alike in one visit.
How long does rekeying take?
A locksmith can rekey a standard lock in 10-15 minutes. For a whole house (3-4 locks), expect 45-60 minutes.
When should I replace instead of rekey?
Replace when locks are old, damaged, corroded, or you want to upgrade to higher-security hardware or smart locks. If the lock works fine and you just want new keys, rekeying is the better choice.
Need residential locksmith service right now? Call (855) 373-1159 and our 24/7 dispatch center will connect you with a licensed professional near you.