
Rekeying a lock is an essential skill in maintaining security for your home, office, or rental property. This process involves changing the internal pins of a lock cylinder so that it can be operated by a new key, while the old key will no longer work. Rekeying is a cost-effective alternative to replacing the entire lock, especially if you’ve lost keys, moved into a new property, or need to limit access. This guide will walk you through the steps required to rekey a lock and the tools you will need.
1. Understanding Rekeying
Rekeying a lock essentially involves resetting the lock’s mechanism to accept a new key. When a locksmith or DIYer rekeys a lock, they change the arrangement of pins inside the lock so that only the new key can operate it. The old key is rendered obsolete. This method can be performed on most locks, such as door locks, deadbolts, and even some padlocks.
Rekeying is a more cost-effective solution than replacing the entire lock system. It saves money, especially when you have multiple locks on a property that need to be updated with a new key. Additionally, rekeying provides enhanced security, especially when you’ve lost a key or want to ensure former residents or employees no longer have access.
2. Tools You Will Need
Before you start the rekeying process, gather the necessary tools. While some of these tools can be purchased individually, some rekeying kits come with everything you need. Here’s a list of the basic tools for the job:
- Rekeying Kit: Most rekeying kits will include pins, springs, and a key gauge, which are specific to the lock brand. Some may come with a pinning tray for easy organization.
- Plug Follower: This tool helps you remove and replace the lock cylinder’s pins while maintaining their original order.
- Tweezers or Needle-Nose Pliers: To handle small pins and springs.
- Screwdriver: To remove the lock from the door or housing.
- Key Gauge: To measure the size of the pins in the lock.
- New Key: The new key for the lock.
- Lock Lubricant: For smooth operation during and after the rekeying process.
3. Steps to Rekey a Lock
Step 1: Remove the Lock from the Door
To begin the rekeying process, you need to remove the lock from the door. Typically, locks have screws that hold them in place. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws and take the lock assembly off the door.
Step 2: Disassemble the Lock
Once you have the lock assembly in hand, disassemble it carefully. This usually involves unscrewing the faceplate and removing the lock cylinder. The cylinder is where the key interacts with the internal components of the lock, and it’s where you will focus your efforts for rekeying.
Step 3: Remove the Existing Pins
After removing the cylinder, insert a plug follower into the back of the cylinder to keep the pins in place. Then, use your tweezers or needle-nose pliers to gently pull out the existing pins and springs. Keep track of the order in which they are removed, as this will help you understand the original pinning of the lock.
If your kit includes a pinning tray, place the pins in the appropriate slots. This will allow you to organize the pins by size, which is essential when rekeying a lock.
Step 4: Install the New Pins
Take the new pins from your rekeying kit and replace the old ones. The new pins should correspond to the new key you want to use. Each pin’s length corresponds to a specific cut on the new key, so refer to the key gauge to measure the appropriate size. Carefully drop each pin into the cylinder one at a time.
When installing the pins, ensure that the springs are positioned correctly above the pins to maintain the proper tension. Once all the pins are in place, check the assembly to ensure everything is aligned correctly and the springs are not misplaced.
Step 5: Reassemble the Lock
After replacing the pins, it’s time to reassemble the lock. Carefully insert the plug follower to push the pins back into place. Then, reinsert the cylinder into the lock housing. Replace any screws or components you removed during the disassembly process.
Step 6: Test the New Key
Insert the new key into the lock and turn it to test if the mechanism works smoothly. The key should turn without resistance, and the lock should operate properly. If the key doesn’t turn or feels sticky, double-check the pin configuration to ensure the pins are properly aligned.
If necessary, make minor adjustments to the pins to ensure smooth operation. It’s crucial that the new key works correctly before reinstalling the lock on the door.
Step 7: Reinstall the Lock on the Door
Once the new key is working smoothly, reinstall the lock on the door. Align the lock with the door’s strike plate, then screw it back into place. Test the lock again on the door to ensure it functions properly with the new key.
4. Advantages of Rekeying a Lock
Rekeying a lock provides several benefits, making it an attractive option in many situations:
- Cost-Effective: Rekeying is less expensive than replacing the entire lock system. You save money on hardware and installation fees.
- Enhanced Security: If you’ve lost your keys or moved into a new home, rekeying your locks ensures that unauthorized individuals cannot gain access.
- Convenience: If you have multiple locks that need to be updated, rekeying allows you to use a single key for all locks, simplifying key management.
- Preventative Measure: Rekeying can help you limit access to your property, especially after a break-in, an employee leaving your company, or a tenant moving out of a rental.
5. When to Rekey a Lock
You may want to rekey your locks in several situations:
- Lost or Stolen Keys: If you’ve misplaced your keys or suspect they’ve been stolen, rekeying the locks ensures that no one can use the old key to gain access to your property.
- Moving Into a New Home: It’s always a good idea to rekey the locks when you move into a new house, as previous owners or anyone who had access to the keys may still have copies.
- Changing Roommates or Employees: When someone moves out of your house or business, you may want to rekey the locks to prevent them from accessing the property.
- Upgrading Security: If you want to upgrade your security without purchasing new locks, rekeying allows you to change the internal mechanism and improve the safety of your home or business.
6. Conclusion
How to rekey a lock is a simple but effective way to enhance your security without the need for an entirely new locking system. Whether you’re looking to protect your home, office, or other property, rekeying provides a cost-effective solution that ensures only authorized individuals can access your property. While the process requires patience and the right tools, it’s entirely feasible to complete it yourself with the proper guidance. If you’re uncomfortable with rekeying a lock yourself, you can always hire a professional locksmith to handle the job and ensure everything is done correctly.