You’ve lost your keys. Or your house was broken into. Or you just moved into a new place and realized the previous owner probably has spare copies. Whatever the situation, you’re faced with an important question:
Should you rekey your locks or replace them entirely?
This is one of the most common questions we hear at Denver Locksmith, and the answer matters—both for your security and your wallet. The choice depends on several factors, and understanding each option will help you make the right decision.
What is Lock Rekeying?
Rekeying is the process of altering the internal mechanism of your existing lock so that old keys no longer work.
Here’s how it works: Every lock contains a series of pins at different heights. When you insert your key, the pins align to a specific pattern, allowing the lock to turn. Rekeying changes those pin positions so a different key (with a different pattern) now opens the lock. The old key? It won’t work anymore.
How the Rekeying Process Works
A professional locksmith:
- Removes your existing lock cylinder from the door
- Opens it using a special tool
- Removes and reorganizes the internal pins
- Tests the new key to ensure it operates smoothly
- Reinstalls the lock cylinder
- Makes copies of the new key for you
The entire lock remains in place. Only the internal mechanism changes. This is why rekeying is faster and cheaper than replacement.
What Does Lock Replacement Mean?
Lock replacement means removing your existing locks entirely and installing brand-new locks (new hardware, new cylinder, new everything).
When you replace a lock, you get:
- A completely new locking mechanism
- Potentially upgraded lock quality or security features
- Keys that look and work differently
- Often a different finish or style matching your décor
Lock replacement is more involved—the locksmith must physically remove the old hardware and install new hardware in the same location.
Cost Comparison: Rekeying vs. Replacement
This is usually the deciding factor for most people.
Rekeying typically costs:
- $20-$50 per lock for residential rekeying
- $50-$150 per lock for commercial rekeying
- Faster installation (15-30 minutes per lock)
Replacement typically costs:
- $150-$300+ per lock (depending on quality)
- Much slower installation (45 minutes to over an hour per lock)
- Additional labor for removal and new hardware installation
Real-world example: If you want to rekey 5 locks in your home, you’re looking at roughly $100-$250 total. Replacing those same 5 locks might cost $750-$1,500 or more.
That’s a significant difference. If your locks are still functional and in good condition, rekeying saves you 75-80% compared to replacement.
When Rekeying Makes Sense
Rekeying is the right choice when:
You moved to a new home or office. The previous owner or tenant likely has spare keys. You don’t know who has access to your property. Rekeying ensures those old keys no longer work—instantly giving you sole control of your locks.
An employee or tenant left. They had a key. They might have made copies. Rekey to eliminate their access.
You lost your keys. If someone found your keys, they could access your home. Rekeying prevents that unknown person from entering.
Your keys were stolen. Similar to lost keys—you don’t know who has copies. Rekeying eliminates the risk.
You want to upgrade your master key system. Commercial facilities and property managers regularly rekey when they restructure access levels, add new departments, or implement new security protocols.
Security incident but locks are sound. If someone tried to break in but didn’t successfully breach your locks, rekeying changes the entry path without requiring expensive new hardware.
Your locks look fine and work smoothly. If your locks function well and suit your décor, why replace them? Rekeying solves the security problem while keeping hardware you’re happy with.
When Lock Replacement Makes Sense
Despite rekeying’s cost advantage, replacement is sometimes the better choice:
Your locks are damaged or worn. After years of use, locks wear out. Keys might stick, the mechanism might not fully engage, or the lock might rattle. Worn locks are security risks because they’re easier to pick or bypass. Replacement gives you functioning locks again.
You had a successful break-in. If someone exploited your existing lock’s vulnerabilities and entered your home or business, that lock design failed. Upgrading to a high-security lock prevents the same technique from working again. The old lock—even if rekeyed—uses the same vulnerable design.
You’re upgrading lock quality. Maybe you want a higher-security deadbolt, a smart lock with keypad entry, or commercial-grade hardware for a residential property. Those upgrades require replacement.
You want a different style or finish. If your interior design has changed, you might want locks that look different. Replacement lets you choose from various styles and finishes.
You need specialized locks. If you’re installing a master key system, access control system, or electronic locks, you need new hardware designed for those systems.
You’re installing smart locks or electronic access. Smart locks, keypad locks, and biometric locks all require modern hardware. These can’t be retrofitted into old locks.
Multiple locks need coordination. If you’re securing several properties or a large facility, replacement allows you to standardize on one lock system across all locations. This simplifies maintenance and ensures consistent security.
Your insurance or security company recommends it. After a break-in, some insurance companies require upgrades to higher-security locks before they’ll cover future claims.
Security Considerations
Here’s what many people don’t realize: a rekeyed lock is not more vulnerable than a new lock of the same model.
If you have a standard residential lock and you rekey it, it’s just as secure as a new lock of that same model. The vulnerability isn’t the age of the lock—it’s the lock’s inherent design.
However, if your lock design is outdated or vulnerable to modern picking techniques, a high-security lock is more secure than the older lock, whether that older lock is original or recently rekeyed.
Example: An 20-year-old deadbolt rekeyed last month is still a 20-year-old deadbolt design. A burglar familiar with that design might still be able to pick it. Replacing it with a modern high-security deadbolt closes that vulnerability.
The Bottom Line: Rekey or Replace?
Rekey if:
- Your locks are in good condition and work smoothly
- You’re addressing a security concern (lost keys, employee departure, previous owner access)
- You want to save money
- You’re happy with your lock’s appearance and style
Replace if:
- Your locks are damaged, worn, or malfunctioning
- You’re upgrading to higher-security locks after a break-in
- You want to install smart locks, electronic access, or modern security systems
- You’re implementing a master key system that requires compatible hardware
- You want a different look, style, or finish
- Your locks use an outdated or vulnerable design
What Denver Locksmith Recommends
When you call us, we’ll assess your locks honestly. We won’t recommend replacement if rekeying solves your problem. And we won’t recommend rekeying if your locks are damaged or using a vulnerable design.
That honesty is why Denver businesses and homeowners trust us. We care about your security and your budget.
The move: Call Denver Locksmith at (303) 619-9136 or schedule a lock assessment online. We’ll evaluate your locks, explain your options, and help you make the decision that makes sense for your situation.
No pressure. No surprise pricing. Just honest advice from professionals who care about Denver’s security.
Denver Locksmith Rekey & Lock Replacement Services
Phone: (303) 619-9136
Available 24/7
Transparent Pricing | Expert Assessment | Fast Service
All Work Backed by 6-Month Warranty
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