Maybe all you need is a new key. The fact of the matter is that a lock’s specific configurations are not fixed, and a skilled locksmith can arrange the inside tumblers to open the lock with a different set of keys. Most people think that this is easier than replacing a lock.

However, you might actually need to change the lock. This is thought to take longer and be more difficult, particularly if your new lock is from a different brand.

While frequently providing a brand-new set of keys, the Locksmith Sutton Coldfield may need to alter some wiring or drill holes in the door at times. Rekeying can be a natural preference over replacement.

But is rekeying or replacing locks more cost-effective? The truth is that, depending on the circumstances, either of these processes can drastically alter. What if every lock in your house needs a lot of new keys but you can easily replace them with the same cheap lock brand? Is it then less expensive?

Costs for rekeying and replacement are influenced by numerous factors. To know what your particular circumstance calls for, it is essential to be familiar with each of these aspects. Things can quickly become complicated when budgeting for a locksmith visit.

Overview of rekeying

Prior to responding to the question “Is it cheaper to rekey or replace locks?” What exactly takes place during a rekeying? How do they function? And how can you tell if you require one? You need to know how a pin tumbler lock works before you can understand how lock rekeying works.

The most prevalent type of lock is the pin tumbler. There are other types of locks that can be rekeyed, but most likely, the lock you want to rekey is a pin tumbler.

Due to their relatively high level of security, these are the most prevalent type of lock. They each have their own bypasses, but the fact of the matter is that every lock has a bypass, and pin tumblers are typically sufficient in terms of safety.

Let’s imagine what these locks look like inside

Consider a cylinder. The door will open when a key is inserted through the cylinder’s face and rotated. Therefore, in essence, you will need to design this cylinder to only rotate under certain conditions. The nominal pin tumblers come into play here.

At the top of the cylinder, drill a few holes and insert some pins about halfway into these holes. Put casing around them to keep them in place and provide them with something to rest on so that they are always halfway inside the cylinder. Bam! The cylinder is now completely immobile! You must move the pins to turn the cylinder and open the door.

Then, you want to put some leeway for the pins to move around. This wiggle room needs to go both up and down, which is the tricky part. A second set of pins will need to be installed in place of whatever the pins were resting on. How does it function?

The second set of bottom pins moves up when the key is pressed. After that, this also moves the first set of pins up. If you push them high enough, you can completely remove the first set from the cylinder.

If you raise them too high, the second set of pins will now prevent the cylinder from turning. Each pin needs to be pushed to the right height.

Because each pin is unique in length, only the appropriate key biting can raise the pins to the appropriate height. In point of fact, its security mechanism is relatively straightforward.

In essence, rekeying a lock entails simply replacing or rearranging the pins so that a different kind of bitting can raise them to the appropriate height. It’s pretty easy. So, is it more cost-effective to rekey or change locks?