One of the most common misconceptions in locksmithing is that changing who can enter a property always requires replacing every lock. It does not. In many situations, rekeying may accomplish the goal while keeping compatible existing hardware. In other situations, replacing the lock is clearly the better option. Understanding the difference can help Jacksonville homeowners make a more informed decision.
What Is Rekeying?
Rekeying changes the internal key configuration of a compatible lock. After the work is completed, an old key no longer operates that lock and a new key does. The exterior lock hardware can often remain in place.
When Does Rekeying Make Sense?
Rekeying is commonly considered after moving into a home, losing a key, tenant turnover, employee changes or uncertainty about who possesses copies. It can also be useful when several compatible locks need to work with a different key configuration.
What Is Lock Replacement?
Lock replacement means removing the existing lock hardware and installing different hardware. Replacement may be considered when the lock is broken, badly worn, difficult to operate, outdated, physically damaged or no longer meets the property owner's needs. Replacement is also necessary when upgrading to certain new hardware.
Moving Into a New Jacksonville Home
After moving, you may receive a set of keys, but you usually cannot know exactly how many copies were made before you became responsible for the property. Previous copies may have been provided to relatives, contractors, cleaners, maintenance workers or former occupants. This is why many homeowners consider rekeying compatible exterior locks after taking possession.
When Replacement Is Better
If a lock is failing mechanically, rekeying does not magically make worn hardware new. A locksmith can determine whether the problem is with the key configuration or with the actual condition of the lock. If the goal is an upgrade to a keypad, smart lock or different deadbolt, replacement may also be required.
Can All Locks Be Rekeyed?
No. Compatibility depends on the specific lock and condition. Some hardware may need replacement instead.
Rental Property Rekeying
Jacksonville landlords and property managers often need a repeatable process for changing access between tenants. Depending on the hardware, rekeying can be part of that strategy.
Multiple Locks and One Key
In certain compatible lock configurations, multiple doors may be arranged to work with the same key. This depends on the hardware involved.
Rekey vs Replace FAQ
Is rekeying the same as changing locks?
No. Rekeying changes the working key configuration while keeping compatible hardware.
Should I rekey after buying a house?
It is worth considering because the total number of previous key copies may be unknown.
Should I replace a broken lock instead?
If the hardware itself is damaged or badly worn, replacement may be more appropriate.
Can smart locks be rekeyed?
It depends on the product and mechanical key cylinder design.
Can several locks use the same key?
Sometimes, when the hardware is compatible.
Jacksonville Lock Rekeying
Rekeying and lock replacement are common throughout Jacksonville, Mandarin, Jacksonville Beach, Orange Park, St. Johns, Nocatee, Fruit Cove, Ponte Vedra and surrounding Northeast Florida communities. Before replacing every lock automatically, have the existing hardware evaluated. The best solution should address the actual problem rather than simply replacing more parts than necessary.
