When getting your locks changed, here's what to expect!
It suggests that it may become necessary to change the lock in due time, given some specific security concerns. E.g. you've recently moved into a new home, or you just got rid of your roommate, who turned out creepier than your thought.
Part A: Rekeying, instead of replacing
You can only feel safe in your own house if the doors and windows are locked. Changing your locks is one way to ensure that your home is secure and private. However, before we move further, it's important to know the difference between rekeying and replacing.
Rekeying vs Replacing:
You may alter the security of a door by either changing the locks or rekeying them through a professional locksmith in Kingston. Both options make the previouslyused keys obsolete & unusable. Here, you can find out how much it will cost to replace a lock vs rekey it.
Replacing door locks: The best way to ensure a door is secure is to replace the lock and handle. Here, the locksmith carefully removes the old lock and installs the new lock, along with a new handle set.
Rekeying door locks: This is currently the standard method for replacing locks in residential buildings. Locksmiths can rekey the locks by rearranging the pins and springs within them to function with different keys.
When to rekey? When to replace?
Move and rekey: Rekeying the locks becomes necessary for new homeowners when buying a home. Subcontractors, inspectors, and real estate agents will have keys to a newly built house. The builder handles this, but the buyer's agent ensures it's done before closing. Emergency locksmiths in Kingston recommend Rekeying while moving since you never know how many keys are out there. However, check your lease agreement before rekeying a door lock you may need to provide the landlord with a key.
1. Replace broken locks: Like any other moving components, locks wear out too. Jamming the wrong key or repeatedly locking-unlocking the doors can damage the lock's internal mechanism, resulting in a stuck or hard-to-turn key. Rekeying a worn lock won't fix it since it can't fix the locking mechanism. In this case, replace the complete lock.
2. Change locks when keys are lost or stolen: Change the locks immediately if your house keys are stolen, or you've lost them somewhere. On the contrary, rekeying is the best option if a family member has lost a key. However, if only the key is lost, and without an original key, you'll have to replace the lock(s) by hiring an emergency
3. Rekeying for single-key convenience: It's frustrating to struggle through half a dozen keys when the front door key doesn't fit the backdoor or side door locks and vice versa. Rekeying allows you to use one key for all your locks, including the garage. However, the locks must be of the same brand.
Rekeying and key styles differ per manufacturer. Using the same key, you may rekey some brand locks in your house. In other cases, to rekey all locks with one key, you must replace some which belong to other brands.
Part B: Other considerations when changing the locks
Choosing modern technology: Many homes replace locks after a break-in or neighbourhood burglaries. Modern door locks are simplifying and enhancing home security. Modern locks use keypads with codes instead of keys. You can program a numerical digit code, which is also easy to reset.
Some locks even offer the ease of remotely controlling door locks through smart devices. Thanks to the Internet! These locks also send you a burglary alert when there's a break-in or breach.
Cost comparison:
It is more costly to replace door locks than rekey them. The locksmiths in Kingston would charge from £85 to £115 to replace a lock. On the other hand, rekeying them may only cost between £45 to £65 per lock. The price range majorly depends on the type of locks and doors.
Some might say it will save you more money if you do it yourself. However, it's important to note that the work of a professional has higher quality in terms of strength, fitting, and finishing. And especially regarding security, it's wiser to trust professionals than cry later.
Home insurance compatibility:
Before you change the locks, check with your home insurance provider to see what types are required. If you have a lock installed that does not match the insurance criteria, it may invalidate your home insurance. You must read the terms and conditions of your insurance policy to understand what may render it invalid. E.g., most insurance policies require British standard locks to be put on an external wooden door. To be classified as 'British Standard,' a lock must have undergone rigorous testing. These tests look at things like strength, durability, and security.
These points can help you get a better idea and understanding of what to do with your locks. Replace them or rekey them. And if you've made up your mind, call Kings Security. An organisation committed to your security in every way. The best part is that they provide all locksmithing solutions, from residential to commercial.