Ever lost your keys and felt that unsettling feeling of vulnerability? Knowing who might have access to your home or business is a serious concern. Rekeying your locks is a cost-effective way to restore your peace of mind without the expense of completely replacing all your hardware. It's a smart security measure after moving into a new place, experiencing a break-in, or simply wanting to upgrade your security.
Understanding the costs associated with rekeying is crucial for budgeting and making informed decisions about your security needs. The price can vary depending on factors like the type of lock, the number of locks you need rekeyed, and whether you call a professional locksmith or attempt a DIY approach. Knowing what to expect can help you avoid unexpected expenses and ensure you choose the best option for your situation.
How much does it really cost to rekey a lock?
What's the average cost to rekey a standard lock?
The average cost to rekey a standard lock ranges from $4 to $20 per lock if you do it yourself, buying a rekeying kit. If you hire a professional locksmith, you can expect to pay between $40 and $100, including the service call fee. The exact price depends on the type of lock, the number of locks being rekeyed, and your location.
When you hire a locksmith, the cost typically includes a service fee (usually $50-$75) just for the locksmith to come to your location. This fee is separate from the cost of the rekeying service itself. Therefore, rekeying multiple locks at once will reduce the overall cost per lock because you're only paying the service fee once. More complex or high-security locks may also incur higher rekeying costs due to increased labor and specialized tools required. DIY rekeying is a cost-effective option if you're comfortable with basic tools and have the time. Rekeying kits, containing new pins and tools needed to disassemble and reconfigure your lock cylinder, are readily available at most hardware stores. However, improper rekeying can compromise the security of your lock, so it's crucial to follow the instructions carefully or consult online resources. If you're unsure or uncomfortable with the process, it's always best to hire a qualified locksmith to ensure the job is done correctly and your home remains secure.Does the lock type affect the price of rekeying?
Yes, the type of lock significantly impacts the price of rekeying. Simpler pin tumbler locks, commonly found on residential doors, are the least expensive to rekey. More complex or high-security locks, like those with sidebars, specialized keyways, or electronic components, require specialized tools and expertise, thus commanding a higher rekeying fee.
The cost difference stems primarily from the labor involved and the potential need for specialized parts. A standard pin tumbler lock can be rekeyed relatively quickly by an experienced locksmith. However, high-security locks often involve intricate mechanisms that demand more time and precision. Furthermore, some high-security locks might require specific key blanks or pins that are not readily available and can be more expensive to acquire. Locksmiths must also possess specialized knowledge and training to avoid damaging these complex locking systems during the rekeying process. Beyond mechanical complexity, the brand and model of the lock can also play a role in pricing. Certain brands may have proprietary designs or security features that make them more challenging to rekey. Similarly, if a lock is damaged or worn, the locksmith might need to replace internal components during the rekeying process, which will add to the overall cost. It's always best to provide the locksmith with as much information as possible about your locks, including the brand and model if known, to obtain a more accurate estimate.How much do locksmiths typically charge for rekeying services?
The cost to rekey a lock typically ranges from $40 to $100 per lock cylinder. This price generally includes the locksmith's service call fee, which can vary depending on location and time of day, plus the labor and new pins required for the rekeying process itself.
Rekeying is a more affordable option than replacing locks, especially when you have multiple locks using the same key. The price can fluctuate based on several factors. More complex lock mechanisms, such as high-security locks or those with specific features, will generally cost more to rekey than standard pin tumbler locks. Additionally, if the locksmith needs to disassemble and clean a dirty or corroded lock before rekeying, this will add to the labor time and overall cost. After-hours emergency services or service calls to remote locations will also command higher fees. When requesting a quote, it's wise to ask the locksmith for a breakdown of the costs, including the service call fee and the per-lock rekeying charge. Some locksmiths may offer discounts for rekeying multiple locks at the same time. It is also important to make sure the locksmith is licensed and insured, as using a non-professional can lead to issues with the lock's functionality or security in the future.Is it cheaper to rekey or replace a lock?
Generally, rekeying a lock is significantly cheaper than replacing it. Rekeying involves changing the internal mechanism of the lock to work 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 materials involved; rekeying requires less time and fewer parts.
Rekeying typically costs between $40 and $100 per lock when performed by a locksmith. This price encompasses the locksmith's service call fee and the labor involved in disassembling the lock, replacing the pins, and testing the new key. The cost can fluctuate depending on the complexity of the lock and your location. Rekeying is a particularly cost-effective solution when you've moved into a new home, experienced a lost or stolen key, or want to ensure that previous key holders no longer have access. You can sometimes rekey locks yourself with a rekeying kit which is cheaper, but this requires some technical know-how, and mistakes can damage the lock. Replacement, on the other hand, can range from $50 to several hundred dollars per lock, depending on the quality and type of lock you choose. The cost covers the price of the new lock, the labor involved in removing the old one, and installing the new one. Replacement might be necessary if the lock is damaged, malfunctioning, or if you desire a higher level of security. However, if the existing lock is in good working condition, rekeying offers a more economical and efficient alternative to enhance your home security.Are there extra fees for emergency or after-hours rekeying?
Yes, expect to pay extra for emergency or after-hours rekeying services. Locksmiths often charge a premium for responding outside of regular business hours due to the inconvenience and demand.
Beyond the standard rekeying cost, which typically covers labor and the new key pins, emergency or after-hours service calls incur additional fees. These fees compensate the locksmith for being available outside of their normal schedule and potentially disrupting their personal time. The exact amount can vary widely depending on the locksmith company, the time of day (late nights and weekends are usually more expensive), and your location. Distance to your location is also a contributing factor, as it eats into the locksmith’s time and fuel costs. When you call for emergency or after-hours rekeying, be sure to ask the locksmith upfront about all potential fees, including the service call fee, after-hours surcharge, and the rekeying cost itself. This transparency will help you avoid any surprises when you receive the final bill. Comparing quotes from a few different locksmiths, even in an emergency, can help you find the most reasonable price, although response time should also be a key factor in your decision.What is the cost to rekey multiple locks at once?
Rekeying multiple locks at the same time often results in a discounted rate compared to rekeying them individually. You can typically expect to pay between $40 and $80 per lock when a locksmith rekeys locks at your home or business. However, when you rekey multiple locks the price per lock tends to come down, dropping to somewhere between $20 and $40 per lock, depending on the number of locks and the complexity of the lock mechanisms, and sometimes the travel distance.
The primary reason for this discount is the efficiency gained by the locksmith. Much of the overhead cost associated with rekeying a lock comes from the initial setup, travel time, and administrative tasks. Once the locksmith is on-site and has the necessary tools ready, rekeying subsequent locks becomes significantly faster. This reduced time investment translates into cost savings for the customer. The locksmith can streamline the process by preparing multiple locks at once, using the same keying kit and techniques across all locks.
Several factors can influence the final cost. More intricate lock systems, such as high-security locks or those with specialized features, may command a higher rekeying price per lock, even with a bulk discount. Similarly, the distance a locksmith must travel to your location can also affect the overall price, although many locksmiths will incorporate travel costs into the per-lock fee when dealing with multiple locks. It is always advisable to obtain quotes from multiple locksmiths and clearly communicate the number of locks you need rekeyed to receive the most accurate estimate.
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 professional. A rekeying kit typically costs between $10 and $30 per lock, while the individual pins and tools needed can be purchased for even less. If you have multiple locks to rekey, the cost savings can be substantial.
Rekeying a lock involves changing the internal pin configuration so that the old key no longer works and a new key is required to open it. DIY rekeying is usually straightforward for standard pin tumbler locks commonly found in residential homes. You'll need a rekeying kit specific to your lock brand (Schlage and Kwikset are common brands), which usually includes a key decoder, cylinder removal tool, new pins of various sizes, and a new set of keys. Detailed instructions are typically included with the kit. However, the difficulty increases with more complex locks, such as those with security pins or high-security features. It's essential to properly identify your lock type before attempting a DIY rekey. Incorrect rekeying can damage the lock, rendering it unusable and potentially compromising your security. If you are unsure about the process or dealing with a complex lock, it's best to consult a professional locksmith. The main benefit of DIY rekeying is the cost savings. Hiring a locksmith to rekey a single lock can cost between $50 and $150, depending on the locksmith's rates and the lock type. If you have several locks, the expense quickly adds up. DIY rekeying empowers you to quickly and affordably change your locks whenever you need to, such as when you move into a new home or lose your keys.Hopefully, this gives you a good idea of the costs involved in rekeying your locks. Prices can vary a bit depending on where you are and the specific services you need, so getting a quote is always a smart move. Thanks for reading, and we hope you'll visit us again soon for more helpful home security tips and advice!