Rekey vs. Replace Locks: Which Is Right for You?
After a move, a lost key or a change in access, most homeowners and business owners face the same question: rekey the existing locks or replace them entirely? Both work, but each is better suited to specific situations.
Rekeying at a Glance
Rekeying keeps the existing lock body and only changes the internal pins so old keys stop working and a new key does. It is usually faster and less expensive than replacement.
Rekeying makes sense when the current hardware is in good condition, looks acceptable and matches the door.
Replacement at a Glance
Replacement swaps the entire lock for new hardware. It costs more per door because it includes the cylinder, latch and any trim.
Replacement makes sense when locks are worn, damaged, cheap, mismatched or when you want to upgrade to a smart lock or high-security cylinder.
Side-by-Side
| Factor | Rekey | Replace |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per lock | Lower | Higher |
| Time on site | Shorter | Longer |
| Uses existing hardware | Yes | No |
| Best for worn locks | No | Yes |
| Best for lost keys | Yes | Also works |
| Upgrade opportunity | Limited | Yes |
How to Decide
- Recently lost a key, hardware is fine → rekey.
- Just moved into a home → rekey (or replace if hardware is old).
- Locks are stiff, worn or inconsistent → replace.
- Want a smart lock or high-security cylinder → replace.
- Want one key for several doors → rekey to match.