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 more sense for their situation. Both approaches improve your security, but they work differently and come with different costs, timelines, and use cases. Understanding the distinction can save you money and give you peace of mind.

What Is Rekeying and How Does It Work?

Rekeying a lock means a locksmith disassembles the lock cylinder and replaces the internal pin tumblers with new ones of different sizes. The result is that only a brand-new key will operate the lock — all previously cut keys become useless. The lock hardware itself stays exactly where it is, mounted on your door.

This process is quick, typically taking just a few minutes per lock, and is significantly less expensive than buying and installing new hardware. It's a smart, efficient solution when your lock is still in good shape but you've lost control of who has a working key.

Common Situations Where Rekeying Makes Sense

• You just moved into a new home or apartment in Salt Lake City and don't know how many copies of the key exist.
• You ended a relationship with a roommate, employee, or contractor who had a key.
• You lost your keys and are concerned someone could find and use them.
• You want all the locks in your home to work on a single master key (keyed alike service).

What Is Lock Replacement and When Is It Necessary?

Lock replacement involves removing the entire existing lock hardware — including the cylinder, knob, deadbolt, or lever — and installing a brand-new unit. This is a more involved process but is sometimes the only right answer depending on the condition or capability of your current hardware.

Our lock replacement service is designed to be straightforward and efficient, whether you're upgrading a single deadbolt or overhauling every entry point on a commercial building.

When You Should Replace Instead of Rekey

• The lock is damaged or worn. If your lock is stiff, sticking, or showing signs of a break-in attempt, replacement is the safer choice.
• The lock is outdated. Older pin tumbler locks may offer minimal resistance to picking or bumping. Upgrading to a Grade 1 deadbolt or a smart lock adds real security value.
• You want new features. Keypad entry, smart home integration, or high-security cylinders require new hardware entirely.
• The lock is a low-quality brand. Cheap locks installed by builders are common across Utah subdivisions and may not be worth rekeying.

Rekeying vs Replacing Locks: A Side-by-Side Cost Comparison

Cost is often the deciding factor. Here's a realistic breakdown for the Salt Lake City area:

• Rekeying: Typically $20–$50 per lock for labor, plus a small fee for new keys. Rekeying 3–4 locks can often be done for under $100.
• Lock Replacement: Hardware costs range from $30 for a basic deadbolt to $200+ for a smart lock. Add labor and a full replacement averages $100–$300 per lock.

According to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reports, burglary remains a significant concern for homeowners nationwide, which makes investing in proper lock security well worth considering regardless of which option you choose.

Rekeying vs Replacing Locks for Businesses in Salt Lake City

For commercial properties, the stakes are higher. Employee turnover, lost keycards, and access control all become more complicated at scale. Eagle Locksmith UT regularly works with local businesses to assess whether rekeying multiple locks — or transitioning to a master key system or electronic access control — is the smarter long-term investment.

Our commercial locksmith team can evaluate your entire property and recommend a layered security approach. In many commercial cases, a combination of rekeying interior locks and replacing high-traffic exterior locks delivers the best balance of cost and protection.

How to Decide: A Quick Decision Guide

Still unsure? Use this simple framework:

• Lock works fine, just lost key control? → Rekey it.
• Lock is damaged or low quality? → Replace it.
• Want smart lock features? → Replace it.
• Just bought a new home? → Rekey all exterior locks immediately.
• Running a business with high turnover? → Consider a master key or access control system, consult a professional.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is rekeying as secure as replacing a lock?

Yes — rekeying provides the same level of security as installing a new lock of the same model, as long as the existing hardware is in good condition. The lock mechanism itself is unchanged; only the key combination is reset. If your lock is a quality deadbolt, rekeying it is completely effective.

How long does rekeying a lock take?

A professional locksmith can typically rekey a standard pin tumbler lock in 10–15 minutes. Rekeying an entire home with 3–5 exterior locks usually takes under an hour. It's one of the fastest locksmith services available.

Can all locks be rekeyed?

Most standard pin tumbler locks — deadbolts, knob locks, and lever locks — can be rekeyed. However, some specialty locks, older models, or severely damaged locks may not be rekey-compatible. A locksmith can quickly assess whether your lock qualifies.

How much does rekeying cost in Salt Lake City?

In the Salt Lake City area, rekeying typically costs between $20 and $50 per lock for labor, plus a small charge for new keys. Many locksmiths offer a discounted rate when rekeying multiple locks during the same visit. Contact Eagle Locksmith UT at (385) 557-7669 for an accurate quote.

Should I rekey or replace locks after a break-in?

After a break-in, lock replacement is almost always recommended. Forced entry typically damages the lock mechanism, the door frame, or both. Even if the lock appears functional, a compromised lock should be replaced with new, high-quality hardware to restore proper security.