When you move into a new premises, whether that be a home or business, what do you do first when it comes to securing the place? It is a smart decision to change the locks to ensure that only you and those you authorize have access to the premises. Lock rekeying is the process of having a locksmith change the internal components of your locks to make them operate with a different key, eliminating the old keys from being able to operate the locks.
How is Rekeying Done?
When rekeying a lock, a professional locksmith like First Lock & Security Technologies removes the entire lock body from the door so that we can access the lock cylinder. This is where a series of tumbler pins are located that help the corresponding key open the lock. The tumbler pins contain patterns of various depths and heights to move the pins to open the lock. Once we can access these pins, we can install new ones to suit a new key. This also means that any old keys can no longer open the lock.
Benefits of Lock Rekeying
Peace of Mind – When you know that the locks to your premises have been rekeyed, you do not need to worry about anyone entering the premises with old keys.
Cost-Effective – Rekeying is a more cost-effective solution than completely replacing the old locks with new ones.
Timely – Having your locks rekeyed is a lot faster than completely removing the old locks and installing new ones.
When is it Better to Replace Locks?
Even though rekeying is a convenient option for securing new premises, it is not recommended in every circumstance such as those listed below.
Old, Worn-out Locks – When the locks are old and worn out, it does not make sense to rekey them as they are more vulnerable to break-ins and will need to be replaced soon anyway. Also, spares and keys for older locks can be harder to come by than newer locks.
When all the Locks are of Different Makes – If you desire to have the same key operate all the exterior locks but the current locks are of different makes, rekeying them all to the same key may not be possible. In this case, you would have to replace the old locks or in some cases only the lock cylinder to make them compatible.
Professional Locksmith Services in San Mateo, Belmont, San Carlos, Redwood City, Woodside, Portola Valley, Menlo Park, Palo Alto, East Palo Alto, Stanford, Mountain View, Los Altos Hills, Sunnyvale, Cupertino, Santa Clara, Campbell, Saratoga, Los Gatos, Monte Sereno, San Jose, Milpitas & Los Altos, California
Rekeying is an ideal option when you seek convenience in lock management. Though this is an inexpensive and effective solution, it may not work in every circumstance, considering the age and condition of the current locks. If you are looking for comprehensive security solutions, call First Lock & Security Technologies or come by our shop conveniently located in Los Altos, CA to learn more today.
