#KEYED ALIKE DOOR LOCKS AND DEADBOLTS FULL#

The kit contains everything you need to rekey the lock: tiny picks and tweezers, a key gauge (which is used to determine the depth of the cutouts on your new key), an assortment of pins and springs, to replace the existing ones in the lock, and any other tools you’ll need to dissemble and reassemble the lock. Hardware stores carry rekeying kits for some of the most common lock brands, but they can also be ordered from lock manufacturers and large online retailers like Amazon.

Purchase a rekey kit-for a single lock or up to five locks of the same brand-that matches the brand of lock you want to rekey.Ī rekey kit for a single lock typically costs between $12 and $25 dollars, depending on the brand and type of lock. If you cannot find a local store that will rekey a lock inexpensively, you can purchase the necessary tools to rekey the lock. Purchase a rekey kit, made specifically for your brand of lock, and rekey it yourself.

You’ll have to remove the lock from the door for this option and bring the key that currently opens the lock, but eliminating the house call makes this an inexpensive option. Take the lock (locking knob or deadbolt) to the locksmith, local lumberyard, or hardware store. A locksmith will usually charge a set rate for a service call (often between $40 and $100) and then charge you an additional fee (potentially $10 to $30) for every lock you want rekeyed. Photo: via taubinphoto Options for Rekeying a Traditional Lock Call a locksmith. If you’re dealing with multiple lock brands, you’ll need to decide on one and replace the others to match this brand before rekeying. You cannot rekey a Kwikset or Sargeant lock to open with the same key as a Schlage lock, because different brands of locks have different size keyholes that only accept their own keys. For example, if your front door lock is a Schlage, the other locks you want rekeyed to match must also be made by Schlage.

When rekeying multiple locks to fit a single key, all locks must first have been made by the same manufacturer.

You’ll probably have to replace the lock with a cracked or warped locking mechanism soon, anyway, so consider doing so first. Then, if your goal was to change the locks so that you have the only key, you’re set you only need to rekey if you want multiple locks to share one key.

Rekeying won’t fix a worn or damaged lock.

If you’ve lost the key that opens your existing lock(s), you won’t be able to disassemble the lock for rekeying.

When to Replace a Lock Versus Rekeyingīoth replacing and rekeying a lock effectively change out a lock to limit access, but there are some cases in which you have to go through the motions of both processes. Whether you’re moving into a previously owned home or have simply misplaced a set of spare keys, rekeying is an alternative to replacing the lock altogether that provides the peace of mind that comes with knowing no one else has a key to your home. Likewise, it’s also a common practice for landlords and property managers to have door locks rekeyed every time a new resident moves in. After a new home construction-during which a number of people might have copies of door keys, including contractors, subcontractors, and inspectors-new homeowners may want to make sure they have the only keys to their home before they take possession.

However, rekeying a lock can also improve a building’s security measures.

#KEYED ALIKE DOOR LOCKS AND DEADBOLTS FULL#

This process can lighten a full key ring to a few essentials, taking up less space in your pocket or bag as well as less time spent searching for the right one. Photo: Reasons to Rekey a LockĪs mentioned, rekeying makes most sense for homeowners who prefer to have a single key that opens all of their door locks to the home or apartment.

Keyed alike door locks and deadbolts