Cost Comparison: Is It Cheaper to Rekey or Buy a Brand New Lock?
In almost every situation, rekeying is significantly cheaper than replacing a lock. When you buy a brand-new lock, you are paying for heavy brass, steel, and the manufacturing of the entire mechanism. A high-quality deadbolt can cost anywhere from $50 to over $200 just for the parts, not including the labor to install it.
When you choose to rekey, you are only paying for the locksmith’s labor and a few tiny metal pins. If your current locks are from a reputable brand (like Schlage, Kwikset, or Yale) and are in good working condition, there is absolutely no reason to throw them away just because you need a new set of keys. Furthermore, a locksmith can rekey multiple locks around your house to all work on the exact same key, offering you incredible convenience for a fraction of the cost of replacing every door handle.
Top Scenarios Where Upgrading to a New Lock is the Best Choice
While rekeying is usually the go-to, cost-effective solution, there are specific scenarios where buying a new lock is the only logical choice for your security:
Severe Weather Damage and Rust: Florida’s extreme humidity and coastal salt air are brutal on metal. If your lock is heavily corroded, grinding when you turn the key, or the finish is peeling off, rekeying won't fix the underlying mechanical failure. It’s time for a replacement.
Upgrading to Smart Technology: You cannot rekey a standard mechanical deadbolt into a smart lock. If you want the convenience of keyless entry, Wi-Fi connectivity, or keypad access for guests, a full hardware replacement is required.
Mismatched Brands: If your front door has a Schlage lock and your back door has a Kwikset, they cannot be rekeyed to share the same key because the internal keyways are completely different. To get the "one-key-for-all-doors" convenience, you will need to replace at least one of the locks so the brands match.
The Lock is Physically Broken: If the internal latch is snapped, the deadbolt doesn't extend fully, or someone damaged the cylinder during a break-in attempt, the lock has lost its structural integrity and must be replaced immediately.
Ultimately, whether you rekey or buy new lock hardware depends entirely on the condition of your doors. If you are unsure which route to take, consult a local professional locksmith. They can assess your current hardware and recommend the most secure, budget-friendly option for your property.