Locks play a crucial role in safeguarding our homes and businesses, providing security and peace of mind. However, there are times when changing locks entirely might not be necessary, especially if you want to retain the same hardware. This is where re-keying comes into the picture.
But what exactly is it?
And how does it work?
Let’s delve into this essential aspect of locksmithing.
How does re-keying work?
Re-keying is a locksmithing technique used to alter the configuration of a lock’s internal mechanism so that it can be operated by a different key. In simple terms, it renders the existing keys ineffective while allowing a new set of keys to unlock the same lock. The process involves adjusting the pins or tumblers inside the lock cylinder to match the cuts of a new key. It’s usually less expensive than replacing an entire lock, making it an attractive option for many home and business owners. Re-keying involves the following steps:
- Lock assessment – The locksmith begins by examining the existing lock to assess its condition and determine if re-keying is feasible.
- Disassembly – Next, the locksmith removes the cylinder from the door or hardware.
- Pin replacement – The locksmith removes the existing pins or tumblers and replaces them with a new set that corresponds to the cuts of the new key.
- Key creation – A new key is cut to match the new pin configuration, ensuring that it operates smoothly with the re-keyed lock.
- Reassembly – Once the re-keying process is complete and the new key has been tested for functionality, the lock cylinder is reassembled and reinstalled in its original location.
What are the benefits of re-keying?
Re-keying your locks offers a range of benefits. Whether you’ve lost your keys, moved into a new home or simply want to enhance your security, re-keying can be a cost-effective and convenient solution. Some of the benefits of this essential locksmith service include:
- Enhanced security – Re-keying allows you to maintain control over who has access to your property by rendering old keys useless. This is especially beneficial if you’ve moved into a new home or office space or if you’ve lost track of existing keys.
- Cost-effective – Re-keying is typically more cost-effective than replacing entire locksets, especially if the existing hardware is in good condition and meets your security requirements.
- Convenience – This process offers a quick and convenient solution for updating your property’s security without needing extensive installations or modifications.
- Key consolidation – If you have multiple locks throughout your property that are operated by different keys, re-keying allows you to consolidate them so a single key can unlock all doors.
- Customisation – Re-keying gives you the flexibility to customise your security setup according to your preferences, such as creating master key systems or restricting access to certain areas.
When is re-keying recommended?
From moving into a new property to dealing with lost or stolen keys, there are certain scenarios where re-keying is recommended. Understanding these situations will help you make an informed decision about the best way to protect your home or office and ensure your peace of mind.
- Moving into a new property – Re-keying is highly recommended when moving into a new home or commercial space to ensure that previous occupants or unauthorised individuals no longer have access.
- Lost or stolen keys – If you’ve lost your keys or suspect they may have been stolen, re-keying can prevent unauthorised entry and provide peace of mind.
- Employee turnover – In a business setting, re-keying is advisable to maintain security and access control when employees leave or change positions.
- Maintaining consistency – If you have multiple locks and want them all to work with the same key, a locksmith can re-key the locks to accommodate this, making it more convenient for you to access your property.
- Damaged locks – In some cases, if a lock is damaged but the exterior hardware is still in good condition, re-keying can be a cost-effective alternative to replacing the entire lock.
Key cutting by Grays Locksmiths
At Grays Locksmiths we pride ourselves on our key cutting service’s accuracy and quality. We only supply keys cut on the highest quality blanks.
Budget key blanks other locksmiths use to maximise profit can wear very quickly and aren’t made with the same precision as a quality blank, significantly impacting the quality of keys cut.
Grays Locksmiths keeps up with the latest key cutting technology. Our computer guided electronic machines cut keys to a very high degree of accuracy.
The experienced eye of our master locksmiths can pick up on slight defects in your keys, and restore your newly cut keys to their original form rather than just duplicating the key faults.
Choose Grays for all your key cutting and re-keying needs.