Have you ever wondered who might still have a key to your home? Maybe you just moved in, had a roommate move out, or unfortunately lost a set of keys. Whatever the reason, the security of your home is paramount, and knowing who has access is critical for peace of mind. Rekeying your locks is a simple and effective way to regain that control, ensuring that only those you trust can enter your house.
Understanding the costs associated with rekeying is an important part of home ownership. This information can help you budget effectively and make informed decisions about your home's security. Knowing what factors influence the price, whether it's the number of locks or the need for additional security measures, allows you to choose the best option for your situation.
What impacts the cost of rekeying my house?
What factors influence the cost to rekey a house?
The cost to rekey a house is influenced by several factors, primarily the number of locks needing rekeying, the type of locks (standard pin tumbler vs. high-security), the locksmith's service fees (which vary based on location, time of day, and emergency call-out), and any additional services required such as lock repairs or replacements.
Rekeying involves changing the internal mechanism of a lock so that it works with a new key, rendering the old key useless. The price per lock typically decreases as the number of locks increases, as the locksmith benefits from economies of scale and can complete the job more efficiently. High-security locks, which often have more complex internal mechanisms and require specialized tools or knowledge, will generally cost more to rekey than standard locks. Also, locksmiths operating in major metropolitan areas with higher overhead costs will typically charge more than those in smaller towns. Furthermore, consider the time of day and whether you need emergency services. Rekeying after hours, on weekends, or during holidays will almost always incur a premium fee. If, during the rekeying process, the locksmith discovers that a lock is damaged or malfunctioning and requires repair or replacement, this will also add to the overall cost. Be sure to ask for a clear estimate upfront and discuss any potential additional costs before authorizing any work beyond the initial rekeying.Is it cheaper to rekey or replace locks entirely?
Generally, rekeying locks is significantly cheaper than replacing them entirely. Rekeying involves changing the internal components of the lock cylinder so that it works with a new key, while replacement involves removing the entire lock mechanism and installing a new one. The cost difference is primarily due to the labor involved and the cost of new hardware.
While the cost of rekeying is less, the exact amount depends on the number of locks you need rekeyed and whether you do it yourself or hire a locksmith. A locksmith typically charges a service fee (a trip charge) plus a per-lock fee for rekeying. If you have many locks, this per-lock fee can add up, but it will almost always be less than purchasing entirely new locksets. Replacing locks involves not only the cost of the new lockset (which can range from basic to high-security models) but also the time and effort to install them, or the cost of hiring a professional to do so. However, there are situations where replacing locks might be the better or even necessary choice. If your existing locks are old, damaged, or malfunctioning, replacement might be more cost-effective in the long run, as rekeying a faulty lock might only provide a temporary solution before it needs replacing anyway. Also, upgrading to higher security locks offers better protection than simply rekeying standard locks. Here's a simple consideration: If the lock is physically damaged (e.g., bent, rusted, or broken), replacement is the recommended path. If the lock is in good working order and you only need to change the key access, rekeying is the more economical option.How does the number of locks affect the total rekeying price?
The total rekeying price increases proportionally with the number of locks because each lock requires individual labor and potentially individual new pins. The more locks that need rekeying, the more time a locksmith spends on the job, and the higher the cost of materials.
Rekeying prices are typically quoted either per lock or as a flat rate that includes a certain number of locks, with an additional charge for each lock beyond that initial count. The per-lock charge usually includes the locksmith's labor to disassemble the lock, change the pins to match the new key, and reassemble the lock. Therefore, a house with five locks will inherently cost more to rekey than a house with only two locks. Beyond the simple multiplication of per-lock costs, some locksmiths may offer a slight discount for rekeying a larger number of locks. This is because the setup and travel time remain relatively constant regardless of the number of locks, and the locksmith may be able to amortize these fixed costs across more locks. It's always worth asking for a bulk discount if you have several locks needing service. If you are considering rekeying a significant number of locks, obtaining quotes from multiple locksmiths is advisable. This allows you to compare pricing structures (per-lock vs. flat rate plus extras) and potentially negotiate a better overall price for the project.What's the average price range to rekey a standard house?
The average price to rekey a standard house typically falls between $75 and $200. This price range generally includes the cost of a locksmith's service call and the rekeying of approximately two to five standard pin tumbler locks.
Rekeying is a process where the internal pins of a lock cylinder are altered so that the old keys no longer work and a new set of keys is required. The overall cost to rekey a house depends on several factors, including the number of locks that need rekeying, the type of locks (high-security locks may cost more), the locksmith's hourly rate, and any potential service call fees. If you have more than five locks, the price will likely increase. Some locksmiths offer discounts for rekeying multiple locks at once, so it's wise to inquire about bulk pricing. Beyond the basic rekeying service, additional costs can arise if any locks are damaged or require repair before they can be rekeyed. Furthermore, some homeowners choose to upgrade their door hardware during the rekeying process, such as installing new deadbolts or smart locks, which will add to the overall expense. Always get a quote from a reputable locksmith before proceeding with the work to ensure you understand the total cost involved.Do locksmiths charge different rates for rekeying versus changing locks?
Yes, locksmiths typically charge different rates for rekeying a lock versus changing a lock entirely. Rekeying is generally less expensive because it involves altering the internal mechanism of the lock cylinder to work with a new key, while the existing hardware remains in place. Changing locks, on the other hand, involves removing the entire old lock and installing a completely new one, which requires more labor and the cost of the new lock itself.
Rekeying is a cost-effective solution when you want to ensure that old keys no longer work, such as after moving into a new home, losing keys, or experiencing a security breach. The locksmith will disassemble the lock cylinder, replace the pins and springs with new ones that correspond to a new key, and then reassemble the lock. This process typically takes less time than a full lock replacement, resulting in lower labor costs. Changing locks is usually more expensive because it necessitates purchasing a new lockset, which includes the doorknob or handle, the cylinder, and the strike plate. The installation process also involves removing the old hardware and properly installing the new lock, ensuring it functions smoothly and securely. Changing locks is often recommended when the existing lock is damaged, outdated, or of low quality, or when you want to upgrade to a higher security lock system. The cost will depend on the grade and style of the lock you choose. Rekeying may not be an option for certain high security locks or locks that are heavily damaged.Should I DIY rekeying or hire a professional locksmith?
The decision to DIY rekeying or hire a professional locksmith hinges primarily on your comfort level with mechanical tasks, the number of locks needing rekeying, the complexity of your lock systems, and your budget. DIY rekeying can save money on labor costs, but requires purchasing the necessary tools and understanding the process. A locksmith offers convenience, expertise, and guarantees the job is done correctly, but comes at a higher price.
Rekeying involves changing the internal configuration of a lock so that it works with a new key, while the original key no longer works. DIY rekeying is typically feasible for standard pin tumbler locks, especially if you only have a few locks to deal with. Rekeying kits are readily available at hardware stores and online retailers. However, if you have high-security locks, smart locks, or a large number of locks to rekey, the complexity increases significantly. Mishandling the process can damage the lock or render it unusable, potentially costing you more in the long run to replace it. Furthermore, if you are unfamiliar with lock mechanisms, you may not be able to properly diagnose any underlying issues that are contributing to the need for rekeying in the first place. Hiring a professional locksmith offers several advantages. They possess the necessary tools, experience, and expertise to rekey various types of locks efficiently and correctly. They can also identify and address any issues with the lock mechanism itself, ensuring it functions smoothly. A locksmith can also provide valuable advice on improving your home security. While the cost is higher upfront, you gain peace of mind knowing the job is done right, often with a guarantee of their work. Consider the value of your time, your ability to troubleshoot problems, and the potential cost of errors when making your decision.Are there hidden costs associated with rekeying a house?
Yes, while the advertised price of rekeying a house may seem straightforward, hidden costs can arise from several factors. These often include service call fees, extra charges for difficult-to-remove or specialty locks, fees for after-hours or emergency service, the cost of new keys beyond a standard amount, and potential charges if the lock hardware is damaged during the rekeying process and requires replacement. It's crucial to get a comprehensive quote upfront to avoid unwelcome surprises.
Expanding on these potential hidden costs, it's important to consider the accessibility of your locks. Locks that are corroded, painted over, or simply old and stubborn might require extra time and effort to rekey. A locksmith may need to use specialized tools or techniques, which can increase the labor cost. Furthermore, if you have high-security locks, smart locks, or other non-standard locking mechanisms, the rekeying process can be more complex and expensive than rekeying a standard deadbolt. Always inform the locksmith of any unique or specialized locks you have when requesting a quote. Finally, always inquire about the locksmith's policy on damaged hardware. While reputable locksmiths take precautions to avoid damaging locks during rekeying, accidents can happen. If a lock is damaged and needs to be replaced, you will likely be responsible for the cost of the new lock, as well as the additional labor required for installation. Getting a detailed estimate that includes potential replacement costs will help protect you financially.So, there you have it! Hopefully, this has given you a clearer idea of what's involved in rekeying your house and how much it might cost. Thanks for reading, and feel free to swing by again if you have any more questions about home security or anything else!