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Rekeying your door locks is a smart, cost-effective security solution that lets you maintain your existing hardware while getting fresh keys. Whether you’ve lost a key, moved into a new home, or want to update security after a tenant moves out, rekeying is often the better choice than replacing entire lock sets.
What Is Lock Rekeying?
Lock rekeying involves changing the internal pins inside your lock cylinder so that old keys no longer work, while your new keys fit perfectly. This process keeps your existing doorknobs, levers, and deadbolts intact—saving you money and reducing waste.
Why Rekey Instead of Replace?
Replacing multiple locks throughout your home gets expensive quickly, and you’ll end up juggling multiple keys if the new locks aren’t keyed alike. Rekeying solves this problem elegantly. You keep your quality hardware, spend less money, and can have all your locks working with the same key for added convenience.
How Door Locks Work
Understanding the basics helps demystify the rekeying process. Most keyed locks contain two sets of pins inside a cylindrical plug:
Driver Pins: These uniform-length pins attach to springs and remain unchanged during rekeying.
Key Pins: These vary in length and get replaced when you rekey the lock.
When you insert a key, it pushes the key pins to specific heights. This lifts the driver pins to align perfectly at the “shear line”—the point where the plug can rotate freely to unlock your door. Without the correct key, these pins block rotation and keep your door secure.
When You Should Rekey Your Locks
Several situations call for rekeying:
Lost or stolen keys: Protect your home from potential unauthorized entry
New home purchase: Previous owners, contractors, or real estate agents may have copies
Tenant or roommate changes: Ensure departed residents can’t access your property
Relationship changes: Maintain security after separations or divorces
Employee turnover: If household staff had keys, rekeying provides peace of mind
Security upgrade: Create a master key system or match all locks to one key
The DIY Rekeying Process
Rekeying isn’t as complicated as it sounds. With a brand-specific rekey kit, you can tackle this project yourself.
What’s in a Rekey Kit:
Your kit typically includes 3-6 identically cut keys, a set of numbered or color-coded pins corresponding to your new keys, and simple tools like a plug follower and tweezers. Everything stays the same except the key pins—you’re essentially customizing your lock to work with your new keys.
Basic Steps:
Remove the lock cylinder from your door, take out the old key pins using the provided tools, insert the new pins according to your kit’s instructions, and reassemble everything. The entire process usually takes 15-30 minutes per lock once you understand the mechanics.
Is DIY Rekeying Legal?
If you own your property, you generally have the right to rekey your locks. However, landlord-tenant laws can complicate matters—tenants typically need landlord permission, and landlords may face restrictions on rekeying occupied rental units. When in doubt, consult a qualified attorney about your specific situation.
Important Considerations
You’ll need at least one working key to rekey a lock yourself. If all keys are lost, call a professional locksmith who can pick the lock or extract the cylinder. Also, ensure you purchase a rekey kit specifically designed for your lock brand—Kwikset, Schlage, and other manufacturers require different kits.
Professional vs. DIY: Making the Choice
While DIY rekeying saves money, professional locksmiths offer valuable expertise. They work quickly, guarantee their work, and can handle complications like damaged pins or worn cylinders. Consider hiring a pro if you’re uncomfortable with detailed mechanical work or need to rekey high-security locks.
Enhance Your Home Security Holistically
While rekeying improves door security, consider your home’s overall protection. Quality windows play a crucial role in home security and energy efficiency. Aluclad windows offer exceptional insulation and durability, combining aluminum exteriors with timber interiors for superior performance and longevity.
Ready to upgrade your home’s security and efficiency? Contact Expert Windows & Doors today for professional advice on windows, doors, and complete home security solutions. Our experienced team serves homeowners throughout Ireland with quality products and expert installation.
