We often get calls from concerned customers who are wondering if they can rekey their locks or if they should be changed out entirely. It’s cheaper to rekey locks if your current lock system will support it. However, it can also be less secure. It’s best to get personalized advice from a commercial locksmith about which is best for you, but this quick guide can help you understand your options a bit better.
Rekeying vs. Changing Locks
Of course, changing the locks involves taking out the whole lock and installing a new one. Rekeying is instead changing the pins within the lock. This way, old keys will not work with the lock, but you don’t have to undergo the hassle of taking the lock out and installing a new one. Rekeying is ideal from a budget standpoint. It takes less time, doesn’t involve buying a new lock, and is still quite secure. You will still need to buy all new keys after the lock has been rekeyed, but otherwise, it is fairly convenient.
When You Should Change the Locks
However, there are some circumstances where just rekeying the lock is not as secure as changing the locks. You should change the locks entirely if:
- The lock has sustained damage in a break-in or an accident. In this case, the security of the lock has been compromised.
- The lock sticks or struggles to accept keys. It is simply too old or damaged to continue to serve you, and it is probably inconvenient.
- The lock no longer fits your security needs. The latest locks may offer better security for your building. Or, you might look into access control systems to do even better.
If, instead, you’re dealing with a missing key, stolen key, fired employee, or another tenant leaving your commercial space, then it is probably preferable for you to simply rekey. However, not all locks will support rekeying, so it is wise to run your plan past a professional.
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Commercial Locks and Doors proudly serves businesses large and small throughout the East Bay, including Livermore, Dublin, Fremont, Concord, and more.
Access Control Systems
When you rekey or change your locks, you will need to call in a professional, get some work done, and buy all new keys. There is a simpler way to manage who has access to your facility. An access control system will allow you to simply disallow access to a specific user and the device they were previously using to get into the building, whether that was their cell phone or a key fob.
Access control systems are easier for you to adjust without the input of a professional. In the long run, they will save you on rekeying or lock-changing costs and the cost of buying new keys.
Access control systems also have advantages from a security standpoint. While no system is perfectly secure, they are significant upgrades over physical locks that can be picked with tools.
Learn more about access control systems »
Get Professional Advice
If you can’t decide whether you should rekey your locks or change your locks, you should reach out to our locksmith team. With service from Fremont to Jackson and beyond, help is never far away.
