‍Home security is a major concern for many homeowners, and the cost of installing new locks can be daunting. But did you know there are options for saving money on home security? Lock rekeying and lock replacement are two of the most popular choices, but which one is right for you? It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each method before making a decision. Rekeying can be an economical way to secure your home, but it also has some potential drawbacks. Replacement locks can be more expensive, but they also provide a higher level of security. In this article, we’ll examine the benefits and drawbacks of each option so you can make an informed decision about how to best secure your home.

What is lock rekeying?

To rekey a lock, you must remove the lock’s internal components and remove the existing pins inside. This makes it possible to create new keys for the lock with different pins, so the old and new keys will no longer work together. Rekeying can add a level of security to your home by allowing you to change the lock without replacing it. This is a cost-effective option if you don’t think you’ll need to change the locks again for several years. Rekeying doesn’t require any removal of the lock from the door, so it can be done as soon as you get a new key.

Pros and cons of rekeying

Lock rekeying is your best bet if you have a very old lock and don’t have any way of knowing when it was manufactured. Since you’re just changing the pins inside the lock, it doesn’t matter what model the lock is. If you want to add extra security to an existing lock without replacing it, rekeying is the best option. It’s also helpful if you’re renting and don’t want to make permanent changes to the home. 

The biggest drawback of rekeying is that you don’t get the same level of protection as a new lock. While an old lock may be secure enough for light use, you probably want something more dependable if you’re concerned about crime. Unless you’re rekeying an old lock that works decently well, you’ll probably sacrifice some level of usability.

What does replacing locks mean?

Replacing locks is one of the least expensive and most substantial ways to improve home security. Replacing an old lock with a new, high-quality model can give you the peace of mind you need to rest easily at night. However, replacing a lock means you have to remove the old lock from the door and install a new one. This is an easy task for homeowners who know what they’re doing, but it can be tricky for first-timers. Replacing a lock can be a good choice if you’re renting and want to make a substantial investment in your home. You can replace the door locks with more dependable models and be sure they’ll last for many years.

Pros and cons of replacing locks

Replacing an old lock with a new one gives you the highest level of security. It’s also the most permanent option, which is important if you’re concerned about crime. If you’re renting and want to make a long-term investment in your home, replacing the locks is the most reliable approach. Replacing the locks requires removing the old ones, so it’s something you have to do all at once. This means you can do it all at once and not have to worry about the locks being in disrepair while you save up for new ones. 

However, if the door is in poor condition, you risk making it worse. If you have a sturdy door and want to replace the locks for added security, it’s a great option. But if you want to replace the locks without making any other changes to the door, replacing one lock at a time is not a good option.

Comparing rekeying and replacing locks

Overall, replacing locks is a more substantial investment than rekeying them, but it also provides a much higher level of security. Replacing locks gives you the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have a new, dependable lock on your door. You don’t have to worry about keeping an old lock in good shape or maintaining the finish. If you’re concerned about crime in your area, a new lock is the best option. Rekeying is a much more cost-effective approach if you don’t think you’ll need to change the locks anytime in the near future. It’s a great choice if you want to add some extra security to an existing lock without replacing it. Rekeying is less expensive than replacing the lock, but it also provides less security.

Factors to consider in choosing rekeying or replacing locks

If you want to decide between rekeying and replacing locks, you should consider a few factors. First, you should consider your budget. Replacing locks is usually more expensive than rekeying them. You should also think about how long you plan to live in the home. If you expect to move in the next few years and don’t want to make any permanent alterations to the house, rekeying is your best option. 

If you’re concerned about crime in the area and want a higher level of security, replacing the locks is the best choice. If you want to make a significant investment in your home, replacing the locks is the best option. You should also think about the external factors surrounding your home. If your neighborhood has a high rate of crime, you may want to consider replacing the locks to add the highest level of security. A residential locksmith can help you make an informed decision regarding the best choice for your house.

Conclusion

Home security is something every homeowner should take seriously. These efforts don’t have to break the bank, though. You can save money on home security by rekeying or replacing your locks. Rekeying is a less expensive option, but it also provides less protection than replacing the locks. Replacing the locks is more expensive, but it’s a much more substantial improvement. No matter which option you choose, you can rest easier knowing your home is more secure.