It’s not always easy to know when you need to replace your locks or if they just need re-keying. Fortunately, there are some tell-tale signs that will help you decide which is the right option for you. If your lock has become loose and broken in any way, it may be time to consider replacing it. It also needs replacement if the keys have been lost, stolen, or copied by someone who shouldn’t have them–such as a previous tenant of your home. Locks should be replaced every 10 years or so.

Are you also wondering whether you should rekey locks or replace them? 

Let’s weigh the pros and cons of each and see which offers the best option.

When is Rekeying Lock the Best Option?

If you’re wondering when lock rekeying is a better alternative to lock replacement, it’s usually when the locks are not damaged. Replacing your locks can be expensive and may require you to change all of them in your home or business if they are connected by the same key. The cost for replacing both residential and commercial locks depends on several factors including the type of lock, the quality of the locksmith, and your location.

The other time rekeying is a better option than replacement is if you’ve recently moved into an apartment or a house that has never been occupied before–in this case, there’s no need to replace all new locks with old keys. I have to change the locks for the first tenant & copy their key, so no additional costs will be incurred.

When Should You Replace Locks?

As far as the question goes, when you should replace locks instead of rekeying them is when they are broken or damaged.

If the lock has become loose in any way, it may be time to consider replacing it with a stronger one that won’t break again anytime soon. It also needs replacement if the keys have been lost, stolen, or copied by someone who shouldn’t have them–such as a previous tenant of your home.

Locks should be replaced every ten years or so, but if they break before then you may need to replace them right away and this is when rekeying locks isn’t the best option for you. If you’ve experienced any of the following, consider replacing your door locks:

• You had a break-in at your home recently (particularly if entry was gained through forced entry) and suspect that someone has copies of your old keys.
• Someone other than yourself or your partner has a key to your home.

However, replacing your locks can be expensive and may require you to change all of them in your home or business if they are connected by the same key. The cost for replacing both residential and commercial locks depends on several factors including the type of lock, the quality of the locksmith, and your location.

ALSO READ: Why Are Electronic Locks Perfect for Your Place?

Concluding Thoughts

So cut the long story short, replacing locks should only be considered when they are broken or damaged. You may also consider replacing them if someone other than yourself has a key to unlock your premises. It can be a previous tenant or someone who used to live before you.

Whereas, rekeying locks is not always necessary and can even incur more costs down the road depending on what type of locks they are, the performance of your chosen locksmith, and your location. It’s usually only necessary when you’ve lost keys or had a break-in at home where entry was gained through forced entry.

Whether you’re in need of a lock replacement service or lock rekeying service, we are your one-stop-shop solution for all locksmith needs. Instalock Locksmith in Brooklyn NY has some of the best locksmiths in the industry who will be glad to answer any questions or concerns you may have.