Can I rekey a lock without the original key?
In most cases, a locksmith can rekey your locks even if you’ve lost or misplaced the original key. He/she can either shim or pick the lock in order to unlock the door. When rekeying a lock cylinder, the locksmith will have an easier time removing the lock cylinder after bringing the lock to the “unlock” position.
Can I rekey a lock myself?
When you rekey a lock by yourself, you will need to purchase a rekey kit that is specific to your brand of doorknob, lever, or deadbolt. You will receive several keys (often between three and six keys), all identically cut. In most cases, all other pieces of the lock stay the same.
What to do if you lost a key to a lock?
Contact a locksmith. If you have lost your only set of house keys, key replacement is your only option. You will need to get in touch with a reputable and experienced local locksmith who will be able to make you a new key. A skilled locksmith will create a key to lock by hand, without needing the original key.
Is it cheaper to rekey or replace locks?
Due to the extremely low price of the key pins in the locks, rekeying is almost always much cheaper than getting your locks changed. When rekeying your locks, you are only being charged for the labor, whereas when you get your locks changed, you’re paying both for labor and parts.
What comes in a rekey kit?
Each kit includes 3 pre-cut keys, pins, special tools and a simple-to-follow instruction insert. It makes the re-keying process so easy, even a novice can do it. Note: Rekeying kit requires original key to lock being rekeyed as part of the re-keying process.
How much does it cost to rekey locks on a house?
Rekeying locks on your home costs $40 to $100 plus $15 to $40 per lock or about $75 per hour. If you call the locksmith to your home, you might also pay a trip fee of $50 to $100.
Should I change locks or rekey?
When to Change a Lock You should only change your locks if you want or need new ones because it’s generally more expensive than simply having your locks rekeyed. If you’ve lost the key to a lock, changing it may be cheaper than rekeying it, although a locksmith may be able to rekey it without the key.
Is it cheaper to change locks or rekey?
How much does it cost to rekey a lock?
After this minimum service charge is applied, each cylinder that has to be re-keyed can cost anywhere from $10 to $28, depending on the type of lock. If you’re able to take the locks off and take them directly to the locksmith, then costs could be closer to $10 per lock without the service charge.
What is better to rekey or replace the lock?
In many circumstances, rekeying your locks makes more sense than changing your locks. For example, if all of your locks are of the same brand or have the same type of keyhole but use different keys, you can have your locks rekeyed to operate from the same key.
Can a lock be rekeyed?
Contrary to popular belief, you can actually request a home lock rekeying instead of replacement, which can be costly. If a home lock gets damaged, it can be rekeyed. The locksmith will readjust the lock and makes it function with a new key. A lock rekey is not a difficult procedure, especially for skilled locksmiths.
Does Home Depot rekey locks?
Home Depot and Lowe’s will rekey a lock if you take it directly to their store. According to some reports online, some say the store will only do it if you purchased the lock from them, while others have said they charge $5 to $10 or free at the time of purchase.