In the process of entering your home, it’s likely not something you’ll spend long hours contemplating. The key is pulled out of the pocket/bag and inserted into your lock and then you’re inside. But, in some cases, this simple procedure can get more complicated due to many reasons. The locks you have maybe stuck and old. You might have purchased the property for the first time and do not sure if the previous owner has an entry key. In such cases, it is recommended to change or rekey the lock. The process of each is explained below.
Rekeying locks require a locksmith to open and detach the lock.
They’ll take out the wafer tumblers, which allow the key to enter the lock, and put in an entirely new code.
This new code will block the key that was previously used from allowing someone into the lock and will permit access to an entirely new key.
It is necessary to create an entirely new key that is compatible with this new configuration.
Then the hardware is assembled and you’re all set to start. Rekeying a door lock takes around 10 minutes for a skilled locksmith, assuming that it’s an easy task.
Rekeying locks is less expensive than changing them (because when you replace the lock, you have to pay for both labour and the new components, whereas rekeying just requires labour work). Be careful of anyone trying to make you purchase a new lock without a need.
The process of changing locks can be accomplished fairly easily but it’s recommended only in situations like:
- You’d like to have new locks (because the locks you have had before are become rusted).
- You’d like change your lock to be more safe or electronic locks.
It’s also an excellent idea to change the key locks in the event that a roommate, partner, housemate, or spouse leaves due to security reasons or in the event that an ex-tenant in the rental property is not able to return keys after being expelled. You’ll feel more at ease being the only person with unlimited access. Rekeying is also an effective method to keep the people from entering a room or office that they don’t have to access. The process of resetting your key to make it the only key that can gain access to a space is known as master keying. Master keying may also be utilized to permit a single key to unlock multiple locks.
Even if you’ve never had any changes in your home circumstances, losing your key (or the duplicate of it) might be the reason to rekey if you’re concerned about someone else locating it and being able gain access to your home.
Installing a new lock requires removing the existing hardware (such as a doorknob, or deadbolt) and installing a new one that has the same hole.
It will require some additional work to the door which includes mounting new holes,
making adjustments to the strike of the door (the component of the door that the lock is mounted on) and repairing the door’s alignment. This usually happens when the lock is stuck in a damaged or old condition or not functioning fully.
Many scenarios can occur that could trigger this:
- For instance, the smallest of insect nests can harm the hardware of locks.
- Most often it is the case that rust accumulates which causes decay and eventually corrosion.
- The keyhole enlarges with repeated usage of the lock, causing the plug to break in two and preventing the proper operation of a key.
- The lock plug’s functionality may also be hampered by wear.
- The top spring of a pin tumbler, which is one of the components that mates with a key to fit together, can wrap around the plug.
- The shape of the pinholes on the lock may warp such that they are oval rather than round.
- Metal burrs that develop inside the lock can make using a key seem “grinded.”
- When a lock is first installed, its inside components are also coated with rust-preventive lithium grease (often red, white, or light brown). However, over time, this treatment wears off, putting extra strain on the lock’s internal hardware. The lock will eventually stop working as a result of this. Regular lubrication of these interior components is necessary for proper lock maintenance. You should be able to get advice on how to do this from a locksmith.
All of them primarily occur inside the lock mechanism, and none of them can be identified without disassembling the doorknob or deadbolt and doing a thorough check. However, contacting a locksmith is definitely a smart idea if you realise your lock isn’t functioning properly. It takes between 30 and an hour to replace the lock once the problem has been located. (Because more work needs to be done on the door, this takes a little longer than rekeying. In addition, it frequently costs more due to the requirement for new gear.
You can guarantee that you can enter your home or particular rooms with ease and safety by rekeying or replacing locks (or prevent others from doing so). An expert locksmith can assist you with this. Our team of professional locksmiths at The Lock Specialist is always available to assist you in case of any emergencies or help you may need with your lock.
