Should You Rekey or Replace Your Locks?

When you move into a new home, lose a key, experience employee turnover, or become concerned about property security, you may wonder whether you should rekey your existing locks or replace them completely. Both options can improve security, but the right choice depends on the condition of your locks and how you want them to operate.

Metro Lock Services provides professional lock rekeying and replacement for homes, businesses, rental properties, and commercial buildings throughout Portland, Salem, and surrounding Oregon communities. Here is what property owners should know before deciding between the two services.

What Does It Mean to Rekey a Lock?

Rekeying changes the internal configuration of an existing lock so the old key no longer works. The lock remains installed on the door, but it is adjusted to operate with a new key.

This is often a practical and affordable choice when the existing lock hardware is still in good condition. Rekeying can also allow multiple compatible locks to operate with the same key, reducing the number of keys you need to carry.

Consider rekeying your locks when:

• You recently moved into a home or rental property

• A key was lost, stolen, or not returned

• A tenant or employee moved out or left the business

• You do not know who may have copies of the existing keys

• You want compatible locks to work with one key

• Your current locks operate properly and remain in good condition

Learn more about lock rekeying in Portland and Salem.

When Should You Replace Your Locks?

Lock replacement involves removing the existing hardware and installing a new lock. Replacement may cost more than rekeying, but it provides the opportunity to repair security problems, upgrade outdated hardware, or choose a different type of lock.

Consider replacing your locks when:

• The lock is damaged, worn, loose, or unreliable

• The key sticks or the lock is difficult to operate

• The existing hardware cannot be properly rekeyed

• You want to add or upgrade a deadbolt

• You want high-security lock hardware

• You want to install a smart lock or keyless-entry system

• The existing locks do not provide the level of security you need

Learn more about professional lock change services in Portland and Salem.

Is Rekeying More Affordable Than Replacing Locks?

Rekeying is generally more affordable when the existing locks are compatible and in good working condition because the current hardware remains installed. Lock replacement requires new hardware and may involve additional installation work.

The lowest-cost option is not always the best long-term choice. A damaged or unreliable lock should not be rekeyed simply to avoid replacement. A professional locksmith can inspect the hardware and explain whether repair, rekeying, or replacement is appropriate.

Should New Homeowners Rekey Their Locks?

New homeowners should consider rekeying their exterior locks because it is difficult to know how many copies of the old keys may exist. Previous owners, contractors, neighbors, maintenance workers, or real estate professionals may have received keys at some point.

If the existing locks are secure and operate properly, rekeying may be sufficient. If the hardware is worn, damaged, or outdated, replacement may provide a better opportunity to improve the home’s security.

Should Landlords Rekey Locks Between Tenants?

Rekeying locks between tenants helps prevent old keys from continuing to provide access to a rental property. It also gives landlords and property managers better control over authorized keys without necessarily replacing functioning hardware after every tenant change.

For properties with multiple units or authorized users, a properly designed master key system may make access easier to manage.

What Should Businesses Consider?

Businesses may need locks rekeyed following employee turnover, missing keys, management changes, or changes in access responsibilities. Replacement may be more appropriate when commercial door hardware is damaged or the business needs improved access control, high-security locks, panic hardware, or keyless entry.

A commercial locksmith can evaluate the doors, existing hardware, number of authorized users, and security requirements before recommending a solution.

Lock Rekeying and Replacement in Portland & Salem

Metro Lock Services provides residential and commercial lock rekeying, repair, replacement, and installation throughout Portland, Salem, Beaverton, Tigard, Lake Oswego, Tualatin, West Linn, Oregon City, Clackamas, Keizer, and nearby communities.

With more than 30 years of locksmith experience, Metro Lock Services can inspect your existing locks and explain whether rekeying or replacement is the better option for your property.

Call Metro Lock Services at 503-288-6161 or request locksmith service online.