By All Lockouts Locksmith team ·
Whether you just moved into a new home, lost a key, or had an employee leave, you've probably wondered whether to rekey your locks or replace them entirely. Both make old keys stop working, but they're different jobs with different costs. Here's how to decide.
What rekeying actually means
Inside most residential and many commercial locks is a cylinder with small spring-loaded pins of different lengths. Your key pushes those pins to exactly the right height so the cylinder can turn. Rekeying means a locksmith takes the cylinder apart and replaces those pins with a new set matched to a new key. The lock body, handle and deadbolt stay exactly the same — but the old key no longer works.
What replacing means
Replacing means removing the lock hardware and installing a new lock. That might be the same style, a stronger deadbolt, a keypad or smart lock, or commercial-grade hardware.
When rekeying makes sense
- You moved into a home and don't know who has copies of the old keys.
- A key was lost or stolen, but the lock still works well.
- A tenant moved out, or an employee left.
- You want all your doors to work with one key (keying alike).
- You like your current hardware and want to keep it.
Rekeying is usually less expensive than replacing because you're only paying for pins and labor, not new hardware.
When replacing makes sense
- The lock is worn, sticky, damaged or was forced during a break-in.
- You want stronger security — a higher-grade deadbolt or reinforced strike.
- You want keyless entry or a smart lock.
- The lock is a very low-cost model that can't be rekeyed reliably.
- You're changing the style or finish of your door hardware.
Florida climate considerations
Humidity, salt air on trips to the coast, and afternoon storms can all be tough on exterior locks. If a lock is corroded or stiff, a rekey won't fix the mechanical wear — that's often a sign it's time to replace, or at least service, the hardware.
Rental properties and businesses
Landlords often rekey between tenants because it's fast and cost-effective across many units. Businesses commonly rekey after staff changes. If you manage several doors, ask about keying locks alike or setting up a simple master-key system.
How to decide quickly
- Does the lock work smoothly? If yes, rekeying is usually enough.
- Do you want new features or stronger security? If yes, replace.
- Was the lock damaged? Replace.
- On a budget with good hardware? Rekey.
Not sure? Call or text us. We'll ask about your doors, give you a starting price, and recommend the option that actually fits — not the one that costs the most.