Rekeying vs Replacing Locks: Which Should You Choose?

When it comes to rekeying vs replacing locks, many Salt Lake City homeowners and business owners aren't sure which option makes the most sense for their situation. Both solutions improve your security, but they work differently and come with very different price tags. Understanding the distinction can save you money while keeping your property fully protected.

What Is Rekeying and How Does It Work?

Rekeying a lock means a locksmith adjusts the internal pin tumbler configuration inside your existing lock cylinder. After rekeying, the old keys become useless and a new key is cut to match the updated pins. The lock hardware itself — the knob, deadbolt, or handle — stays exactly where it is.

This process is quick, typically taking just a few minutes per lock, and costs significantly less than a full replacement. It's also a great way to consolidate keys across multiple locks so one key opens every door in your home or office.

What Does Lock Replacement Involve?

Lock replacement means removing your existing lock hardware entirely and installing brand-new components. This gives you the opportunity to upgrade to a higher-security lock grade, a smart lock, or a deadbolt that better fits your door frame. Replacement is more labor-intensive and costs more, but it offers a fresh start both mechanically and aesthetically.

When Is Full Replacement the Right Call?

• Worn or damaged locks: If a lock sticks, wobbles, or has been forced open, the internal mechanism may be compromised.
• Outdated hardware: Older locks may not meet modern security standards. Upgrading to a Grade 1 ANSI-rated deadbolt significantly increases resistance to forced entry.
• Smart lock installation: Most smart locks require specific hardware that can't simply be retrofitted through rekeying.
• After a break-in: Damaged frames or lock bodies need full replacement to restore structural integrity.

Rekeying vs Replacing Locks: A Cost Comparison

Cost is often the deciding factor. Rekeying a standard lock in Utah typically runs between $20–$50 per lock when done by a professional locksmith, while full lock replacement can range from $75–$200 or more per lock depending on the hardware chosen. If you have five or six locks in your home, that difference adds up fast.

However, if your current locks are builder-grade hardware — the kind commonly found in new construction throughout Salt Lake City — investing in replacement with higher-quality locks delivers much better long-term value. According to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reports, a significant percentage of home burglaries involve forced entry through doors, making lock quality a genuine safety concern.

Rekeying vs Replacing Locks for Businesses

For commercial properties, the calculus shifts a bit. Businesses experience higher employee turnover, access control needs, and liability concerns. A commercial locksmith will often recommend a master key system rekey when an employee leaves, but may suggest a full hardware upgrade when expanding access control or integrating electronic keypad or card-reader systems.

If your Salt Lake City business is still using basic pin tumbler locks with no restricted keyway, this is a strong case for replacement with a high-security system that prevents unauthorized key duplication.

Situations That Call for Each Option

Choose Rekeying When:

• You've just moved into a new home or rental property
• You've lost a key or ended a relationship with someone who had access
• Your locks are in good working condition and relatively modern
• You want to consolidate to a single key for multiple locks

Choose Replacement When:

• Locks are visibly damaged, stiff, or corroded
• You want to upgrade to smart locks or high-security hardware
• Your property has experienced a break-in attempt
• You're a landlord doing a full property renovation

If you're still unsure which route is right for you, the team at Eagle Locksmith UT is happy to do a quick assessment and walk you through your options — no pressure, just honest advice tailored to your specific doors and security goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is rekeying as secure as replacing a lock?

Yes — rekeying provides the same level of key-based security as a brand-new lock, as long as the existing lock hardware is in good condition. The key change is what matters for preventing unauthorized entry with old keys.

How long does it take to rekey a lock?

A professional locksmith can typically rekey a standard deadbolt or knob lock in 5–15 minutes. Rekeying an entire home with four to six locks usually takes under an hour.

Can I rekey a lock myself?

Rekeying kits are available at hardware stores, but they require disassembling the lock and handling small pins precisely. Most homeowners find it easier and more reliable to hire a professional, especially since mistakes can leave a lock non-functional.

When should I call an emergency locksmith instead?

If you're locked out of your home or car, or if a lock has been damaged during a break-in attempt, you should call emergency locksmith services right away. Eagle Locksmith UT offers 24/7 emergency response throughout Salt Lake City and the surrounding areas.

Does rekeying work on smart locks?

Traditional rekeying applies to pin tumbler locks. Smart locks use electronic access codes or app-based entry, so "rekeying" them typically means resetting access codes or deleting user credentials — something you can often do yourself through the lock's app.