Why Rekeying Your Locks After Moving is a Critical Step for Home Security
Moving into a new home is an exciting adventure filled with fresh beginnings and endless possibilities. However, amidst the excitement, one critical task often gets overlooked—rekeying the locks. The importance of rekeying locks after moving cannot be overstated. It is a vital step in ensuring the security of your new home and the safety of your family. In this article, we’ll delve into why rekeying is essential, how it works, and provide expert advice to make your transition as smooth and secure as possible.
What is Rekeying Locks and How Does it Work?
Understanding Rekeying
Rekeying a lock involves altering the internal mechanism of the lock so that it can be operated by a new key while rendering the old key useless. This process is different from changing the locks entirely, as it uses the existing hardware and modifies it.
The Rekeying Process
- Disassembling the Lock: A locksmith will take apart the lock to access the cylinder.
- Changing the Pins: The locksmith replaces the old pins inside the cylinder with new ones that match a new key.
- Reassembling the Lock: Once the pins are changed, the lock is put back together, now operable with a new key. Rekeying is a cost-effective and efficient way to secure your home without replacing all your locks.
Why Rekeying Locks After Moving is Crucial
Ensuring No Unwanted
Access When you move into a new home, you cannot be certain who might still have a copy of the old keys. Previous owners, real estate agents, maintenance workers, or even neighbors could have a copy. Rekeying ensures that only you and your trusted family members have access to your home.
Enhancing Home Security
Rekeying immediately enhances your home’s security by eliminating the risk of unauthorized entry with old keys. It’s a simple yet powerful step to prevent potential burglaries or unwelcome visits.
Peace of Mind
Knowing that you are the only person with keys to your home provides immense peace of mind. This sense of security is invaluable, especially when settling into a new environment.
When to Rekey Your Locks
Moving into a New Home
The most obvious time to rekey your locks is when you move into a new home. This should be one of the first tasks you complete before settling in.
After Losing Your Keys
If you lose your keys, it’s essential to rekey your locks immediately. You never know into whose hands they might fall.
Following a Break-In
In the unfortunate event of a break-in, rekeying your locks is crucial. Even if the intruder did not use a key, they might have obtained one during the break-in. Routine Security Upgrades Periodically rekeying your locks can be part of regular security maintenance. It’s a proactive measure to keep your home secure.
How to Rekey Your Locks
DIY Rekeying Kits
For the handy homeowner, DIY rekeying kits are available. These kits come with all the tools and instructions needed to rekey your locks yourself. However, this method requires patience and some skill.
Hiring a Professional Locksmith
Hiring a professional locksmith is the most reliable way to rekey your locks. They have the expertise and experience to ensure the job is done correctly and efficiently. This option, while more expensive than DIY, offers peace of mind that the rekeying has been performed to professional standards.
Cost of Rekeying Locks
Factors Influencing Cost
The cost of rekeying locks can vary based on several factors:
- Number of Locks: More locks mean higher costs.
- Type of Lock: High-security locks can be more expensive to rekey.
- Professional vs. DIY: Hiring a professional locksmith will generally cost more than doing it yourself.
Average Costs
On average, you can expect to pay between $15 to $25 per lock for rekeying if you do it yourself. Professional locksmiths typically charge between $80 to $160 for a house call, plus $10 to $30 per lock.
Benefits of Rekeying vs. Replacing Locks
Cost-Effectiveness Rekeying
is usually more cost-effective than replacing all your locks. Since you’re only changing the internal pins, the hardware remains the same.
Quick and Convenient
Rekeying is a quicker process compared to replacing locks. It can usually be done within an hour or two, depending on the number of locks.
Maintains Aesthetic Consistency
Rekeying allows you to keep your existing locks, maintaining the aesthetic consistency of your home’s hardware. This is particularly important if you have custom or antique locks that you don’t want to replace.
Common Myths About Rekeying Locks
Rekeying is Expensive
Many people assume that rekeying is expensive. However, as we’ve discussed, it’s often more affordable than replacing locks entirely.
Only New Homeowners Need to Rekey
While new homeowners are the most common group to rekey locks, anyone concerned about security should consider it, especially after losing keys or experiencing a break-in.
DIY Rekeying is Too Difficult
While DIY rekeying can be challenging, it’s not impossible. With the right tools and instructions, many homeowners successfully rekey their locks. However, for those who prefer not to tackle it themselves, professional help is readily available.
Expert Tips for Rekeying Locks
Plan Ahead
Before you move, plan your rekeying. Arrange for a locksmith to come out the day you get the keys to your new home.
Keep Spare Keys Secure
Once your locks are rekeyed, be mindful of who you give spare keys to. Keep track of all copies to maintain security.
Regularly Update Your Security
Even if you haven’t moved or lost keys, regularly updating your locks can keep your home secure. Consider rekeying every few years as part of your security routine.
Secure Your New Home with BS Locksmith
Moving into a new home is an exciting chapter in your life, but it also comes with its own set of responsibilities, including ensuring the safety and security of your new space. One simple yet crucial step you should take is rekeying your locks. This not only eliminates the risk of unauthorized access by previous keyholders but also gives you the peace of mind knowing that only you and your trusted ones have access to your home. Rekeying is a cost-effective way to secure your property, making it an essential item on your moving checklist.
At BS Locksmith, we understand the importance of feeling safe in your new home. Serving Aurora, Denver, and the surrounding areas, we offer professional rekeying services tailored to meet your specific needs. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing reliable and efficient service, ensuring that your transition into your new home is smooth and secure.
When you choose BS Locksmith, you’re not just getting a service; you’re investing in your peace of mind. Our expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction mean that you can trust us to handle your security needs with the utmost care and professionalism. Don’t leave your home’s security to chance. Contact BS Locksmith today to schedule your rekeying service and start your new chapter on a solid, secure foundation.
Remember, rekeying your locks is more than just a precaution—it’s a proactive step towards safeguarding your home and loved ones. Let BS Locksmith be your trusted partner in ensuring your new home is as secure as it is welcoming. Reach out to us now and let’s make your home a safe haven together.
BS Locksmith LLC
2993 S Peoria St Ste 136, Aurora, CO 80014
(720) 372-8021
