Rekey or Replace? How to Decide (and Save Money)

“I need my locks changed” is the most common request we hear — but about half the time, what the caller actually needs is a rekey, which costs a fraction of full replacement. Here's the difference in plain English.

What rekeying actually does

Inside your lock cylinder is a row of pins cut to match your key. Rekeying swaps those pins for a new set matched to a new key. Five minutes per cylinder, done at your door. The old keys stop working instantly — same hardware, new key.

Rekey when…

• You moved into a new home (you have no idea how many copies the sellers, agents, and contractors floated)
• A key was lost or stolen, but the locks themselves are decent
• A roommate, tenant, employee or ex still has a key
• You want one key for every door — we can key alike most same-brand locks

Replace when…

• The lock is worn, sticky, corroded or failing — mountain freeze-thaw is brutal on bargain hardware
• You want an upgrade: a Grade 1 or Grade 2 deadbolt, a high-security cylinder, or a keypad/smart lock
• The finish is failing or the door has been forced

The honest math

Rekeying several locks typically costs less than replacing one mid-grade deadbolt. That's why a trustworthy locksmith asks questions before quoting — if rekeying solves it, that's what we'll tell you.

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