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5 Reasons to Rekey Your Locks Instead of Replacing Them

Learn why lock rekeying is a smart, cost-effective alternative to lock changes. KeyZoo Locksmiths explains when to rekey, how it works, and why it matters for your home or business.

Tips And Tricks

Eli Itzhaki

June 6, 2025

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When it comes to your home or business security, your door locks are your first line of defense. But when should you rekey your locks, and when should you replace them entirely? Many property owners mistakenly believe that every security concern calls for a full lock change, but that’s not always necessary—or cost-effective.

In many cases, a lock rekey is a faster, more affordable, and equally secure alternative. At KeyZoo Locksmiths, we help homeowners and business owners across South Florida make smart, informed decisions about their lock systems.

Here are the top five reasons you should consider rekeying your locks instead of replacing them.


1. Rekeying Is More Cost-Effective Than Replacing Locks

The most immediate benefit of rekeying is the cost. A lock change involves removing your existing hardware and installing a brand-new lock system, which means paying for both parts and labor. If you have multiple doors—or high-end hardware—the costs can add up quickly.

With a lock rekey, our locksmiths simply adjust the internal components (called “pins” or “tumblers”) of your existing locks so that they work with a new key. The old keys will no longer function, but you don’t need to purchase new lock bodies, handles, or cylinders.

When cost is a concern, rekeying provides:

  • Faster service times

  • Less invasive work on your doors or frames

  • Full key control without the price tag of a full lock upgrade

➡️ Learn more about our residential lock rekey services


2. It Restores Key Control After a Move or Staff Change

Whether you’ve just moved into a new home or had a change in business personnel, rekeying helps eliminate any uncertainty about who might have a copy of your keys.

You may not know how many people had access to your keys in the past, including:

  • Former tenants or homeowners

  • Contractors

  • Cleaning crews

  • Previous employees or managers

By rekeying your locks, you ensure that only your new keys work with the existing hardware. It’s a simple way to take control of your property’s security immediately.

KeyZoo recommends rekeying when:

  • Moving into a new home or apartment

  • Purchasing a new commercial property

  • An employee with key access leaves your company

➡️ Need to rekey a business property? Check out our commercial rekey services


3. Rekeying Can Create a Master Key System

One of the biggest conveniences of rekeying is the ability to set up a master key system. This is especially useful for businesses, property managers, or even large households with multiple locks.

With a master key system, KeyZoo can reconfigure your locks so that:

  • Each lock opens with its own unique key

  • One master key opens all doors

This setup provides enhanced access control without replacing any existing lock hardware. It’s ideal for:

  • Multi-unit rental properties

  • Offices with multiple departments

  • Large homes with separate entrances or guest suites

With strategic rekeying, we help you reduce the number of keys you carry—without compromising security.


4. It’s a Faster Solution for Lost or Stolen Keys

Losing your keys or experiencing a potential key theft is stressful—but it doesn’t always mean a full lock replacement is needed.

If your locks are still in good shape, a professional rekey can be done quickly and efficiently. This allows you to:

  • Restore security by disabling old keys

  • Keep your existing locks

  • Get back to normal faster than waiting for replacement hardware

For homes and businesses alike, speed is essential in situations like:

  • Misplaced house keys

  • Stolen business key rings

  • Broken keys that may still fit the lock

With KeyZoo’s mobile locksmith service, we can rekey your locks on-site—often within the hour.

➡️ Explore our residential lock change services if your locks are damaged or outdated


5. Rekeying Lets You Keep Matching Hardware and Aesthetics

Sometimes, a full lock replacement isn't ideal because it would disrupt the look and feel of your door hardware. This is especially true if you have:

  • Designer or vintage locks

  • Matching handles throughout the house

  • A custom-finished entry set

Rekeying keeps the external appearance and functionality of your locks intact while securing them internally. It's the perfect solution for:

  • Historic homes

  • HOA-regulated communities

  • High-end commercial properties with matching hardware

If aesthetics are important to you or your building’s brand, rekeying is a discreet and secure way to update your access control.

➡️ Learn more about business lock change solutions if you’re planning a full hardware upgrade


When Should You Replace Instead of Rekey?

While rekeying is beneficial in many cases, there are times when a full lock change is necessary:

  • Your lock is damaged or malfunctioning

  • You want to upgrade to a smart lock or high-security system

  • You’re changing door hardware for style or ADA compliance

  • The current locks are old, rusted, or incompatible with rekeying

In those cases, KeyZoo offers fast, affordable, and professional lock replacement services for homes and businesses alike.


How KeyZoo Makes Rekeying Simple and Secure

We understand that your time and safety are a top priority. That’s why our locksmiths are trained to perform rekeying services with precision, professionalism, and efficiency.

What to expect with our rekeying service:

  • Transparent pricing with no surprise fees

  • Friendly, licensed technicians

  • On-site key duplication

  • Optional upgrades to smart or high-security locks

Whether you’re a homeowner looking to feel secure in your new space or a business owner managing staff transitions, KeyZoo is here to help.


Final Thoughts: Rekeying Offers Smart Security at a Lower Cost

Choosing to rekey your locks instead of replacing them gives you a fast, secure, and budget-friendly way to take control of your property. It’s ideal for new homeowners, growing businesses, property managers, and anyone who wants to maintain safety without breaking the bank.

Still not sure what’s right for your situation? Contact KeyZoo for a consultation, and we’ll help you determine whether a lock rekey or lock change is the best fit for your needs.


Secure Your Property Today
Schedule a rekey service with KeyZoo Locksmiths and take the first step toward better peace of mind. Visit:

Your security is our specialty.

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