Ever lost your keys and felt that familiar knot of anxiety tighten in your stomach? Replacing all your locks can be expensive, but rekeying offers a more budget-friendly solution. Rekeying involves changing the internal mechanism of a lock so that it works with a new key, rendering the old one useless. It's a practical and often overlooked security measure, especially when moving into a new home, after a roommate moves out, or when keys are simply lost or stolen. Choosing to rekey instead of replace can save you a significant amount of money and time, but understanding the factors that influence the cost is crucial for making an informed decision.
Whether you're a homeowner, renter, or property manager, knowing the potential costs associated with rekeying locks empowers you to protect your property and loved ones without breaking the bank. From the type of lock to your location and whether you call a professional locksmith or attempt a DIY approach, several elements play a role in determining the final price. Understanding these variables helps you navigate the rekeying process efficiently and ensures you're getting the best possible service at a fair price. Furthermore, recognizing when rekeying is the right choice versus when a complete lock replacement is necessary is critical for long-term security and peace of mind.
What impacts the price to rekey my lock?
What's the average cost to rekey a standard lock?
The average cost to rekey a standard lock typically ranges from $40 to $80 per lock. This price generally includes the locksmith's service fee and the cost of the new key pins.
Rekeying is a process where the internal components of a lock are altered to work with a new key, rendering the old keys useless. The cost can fluctuate depending on factors like the type of lock (e.g., deadbolt, doorknob), the complexity of the lock mechanism, and the locksmith's hourly rate, which can range from $75 to $150. Some locksmiths might charge a flat service call fee in addition to the per-lock rekeying cost, so it's wise to inquire about all potential charges beforehand. Rekeying is often a more cost-effective alternative to replacing the entire lock, especially when you've recently moved into a new home, experienced a lost or stolen key, or want to ensure that previous key holders no longer have access. Also, rekeying all your locks to use the same key is possible. This convenient option, known as "keying alike," allows you to operate multiple locks with a single key, simplifying your key management.Does the type of lock affect the cost of rekeying?
Yes, the type of lock significantly impacts the cost of rekeying. Simpler locks like standard pin tumbler locks are generally less expensive to rekey than more complex or high-security locks that require specialized tools and expertise.
The labor involved is a primary driver of cost variation. Rekeying a basic residential door lock, such as a Kwikset or Schlage pin tumbler lock, is a relatively straightforward process that a locksmith can usually complete quickly. High-security locks, such as those with sidebars, magnetic pins, or restricted keyways, demand more intricate disassembly and reassembly, increasing the time and skill required. These locks often require specialized tools and a deeper understanding of their internal mechanisms. Furthermore, the availability of replacement parts can influence the price. Standard lock components are readily available and inexpensive. However, parts for older, less common, or high-security locks may be harder to source, potentially leading to higher costs. In some cases, if parts are unavailable or the lock is significantly damaged, replacement might be a more cost-effective solution than rekeying. Therefore, it is always best to provide the locksmith with as much information about your locks as possible, including the brand and model, to get an accurate quote.Are there extra fees for mobile locksmith services when rekeying?
Yes, there are almost always extra fees associated with mobile locksmith services when rekeying locks. These fees are in addition to the base cost of the rekeying service itself and typically cover the locksmith's travel time, fuel, and the convenience of on-site service.
The primary extra fee is the "service call fee" or "trip charge." This is a flat rate charged simply for the locksmith to come to your location, regardless of how long the job takes. The amount varies depending on the locksmith company, their location, and the distance they need to travel. Expect this fee to range from $50 to $150 or even higher, especially during after-hours or emergency calls. Some companies might waive the service call fee if the rekeying job is substantial enough (e.g., rekeying multiple locks). Other potential extra fees could include: after-hours or emergency service fees (considerably higher than standard rates), fees for difficult or time-consuming locks (e.g., high-security locks or locks with unusual mechanisms), and fees for providing extra keys beyond a certain initial quantity. Before authorizing any work, always request a detailed quote that outlines all costs, including the service call fee, the rekeying fee per lock, and any other potential charges. This will help you avoid any surprises on the final bill.Is it cheaper to rekey or replace a lock?
Generally, rekeying a lock is cheaper than replacing it. Rekeying involves changing the internal mechanism of the lock so that it works with a new key, while replacement involves removing the entire lock and installing a new one. The cost difference primarily stems from the labor and the parts required.
Rekeying is a cost-effective solution when the lock hardware is in good condition, and you only need to ensure that the old key no longer works. This is common when moving into a new home, after a tenant moves out, or if keys are lost or stolen. A locksmith simply rearranges the pins or wafers inside the cylinder to match a new key. Replacing a lock, on the other hand, involves purchasing an entirely new lockset, which includes the exterior and interior hardware, and requires more time and effort for installation. However, if the existing lock is damaged, old, or of low quality, replacement might be the more sensible long-term solution. A worn-out lock might be more susceptible to failure or forced entry, making the cost of replacement worthwhile for the added security. Furthermore, if you are upgrading to a higher security lock, or desire a different style or finish, replacement becomes the necessary route.How much does it cost to rekey a lock?
The cost to rekey a lock typically ranges from $40 to $100 per lock when hiring a professional locksmith. This price generally includes the locksmith's service call fee, which can range from $50-$150, and the labor to rekey the lock cylinder. The cost can vary based on factors such as the type of lock, the number of locks to be rekeyed, and the locksmith's location. Some locksmiths may offer discounts for rekeying multiple locks at once. Rekeying kits are also available at hardware stores for those who prefer a DIY approach, usually costing between $10 and $30 per lock. However, it's crucial to have the necessary skills and tools to perform the rekeying process correctly. Improper rekeying can damage the lock or compromise its security. In most cases, it is worth it to hire a licensed professional to ensure the job is done right.Does the number of locks being rekeyed affect the price?
Yes, the number of locks you need rekeyed significantly impacts the overall cost. Locksmiths often offer discounted rates per lock when rekeying multiple locks at the same property. This is because much of the overhead, like travel time and initial setup, is the same regardless of how many locks there are.
The primary reason for price breaks on multiple locks stems from efficiency. A locksmith can complete multiple rekeying jobs during a single visit. Setting up their tools, matching the new key to the first lock, and the travel time to your location all contribute to the initial cost. Subsequent locks require less preparation time, allowing the locksmith to complete the additional rekeying services more quickly. This increased efficiency translates to savings for the customer.
To illustrate this point, consider that a locksmith might charge a flat service call fee plus a per-lock fee. The service call fee covers their travel and initial setup. The per-lock fee covers the cost of the new key(s) and the labor involved in disassembling and reassembling the lock cylinder. With multiple locks, the service call fee is distributed across more locks, effectively lowering the average cost per lock. Always inquire about bulk discounts or bundled rates when you have several locks that need rekeying, as these deals can often save you a considerable amount of money.
How much do locksmiths charge per lock cylinder to rekey?
The cost to rekey a lock cylinder typically ranges from $4 to $25 per lock cylinder, depending on factors like location, the number of locks, and the complexity of the lock itself. This price generally includes the locksmith's labor to disassemble the lock, change the internal pins to match a new key, and reassemble the lock. Keep in mind that this is just for the rekeying service; any service call or travel fees are additional.
Rekeying is a cost-effective alternative to replacing locks entirely when you want to ensure that old keys no longer work. Situations where rekeying is beneficial include moving into a new home, losing keys, or wanting to restrict access to a property. A locksmith will remove the lock cylinder, carefully extract the existing pins, and replace them with new pins that correspond to a new key. The original key will no longer function once the lock has been rekeyed. The final cost can also be affected by the type of lock. Standard pin tumbler locks are the most common and typically the least expensive to rekey. High-security locks or those with more complex mechanisms may incur a higher rekeying fee due to the increased time and skill required. Some locksmiths offer volume discounts if you have multiple locks that need rekeying at the same time, so it's worth inquiring about potential savings if you have several locks to address.Can I rekey a lock myself, and what are the costs involved?
Yes, you can rekey a lock yourself, and the costs are significantly lower than hiring a locksmith. The cost primarily depends on whether you need to purchase a rekeying kit (typically $10-$30 per lock) or just new pins if you already have the tools (a few dollars per lock). Hiring a locksmith can cost $50-$150 per lock, making DIY a budget-friendly option.
Rekeying a lock involves changing the internal pin configuration so that the old key no longer works and a new key does. This is a practical alternative to replacing the entire lock, especially when you want to maintain the same hardware but improve security (e.g., after moving into a new home or losing a key). If you're comfortable with basic hand tools and have some patience, you can successfully rekey most standard pin tumbler locks. The initial investment in a rekeying kit is worthwhile if you have multiple locks to rekey or anticipate needing to rekey locks in the future. These kits usually contain various sizes of pins, a key follower (to help remove the cylinder without disassembling the entire lock), and a key gauge to measure your existing keys. Alternatively, if you only need to rekey one or two locks and are comfortable disassembling the lock cylinder without a key follower, you can often purchase individual pins from a hardware store for a nominal cost. Keep in mind that the specific type of pins you need will depend on the brand of your lock (e.g., Schlage, Kwikset). Before attempting to rekey a lock, watch a few instructional videos and familiarize yourself with the process. It's a good idea to practice on an old lock first to get a feel for the steps involved. With the right tools and some careful attention to detail, rekeying your locks can be a simple and cost-effective way to enhance your home security.So, that's the lowdown on rekeying costs! Hopefully, you now have a better idea of what to expect. Thanks for stopping by, and feel free to come back if you have any other lock-related questions - we're always happy to help!