When people want to ‘change the locks,’ they usually have one of two very different jobs in mind, and the difference is worth a couple of minutes because it can save real money. Rekeying and replacing both end with old keys no longer working — they just get there differently.
Rekeying keeps the lock that’s already on your door and changes the little pins inside the cylinder so a new key works and every old key stops. The hardware you see doesn’t change; the key that operates it does. It’s quick, it’s usually the cheaper path, and for most ‘I need old keys to stop working’ situations it’s exactly right.
Replacing swaps out the whole lock — new cylinder, new bolt, new visible hardware. You’d choose it when the lock is worn or damaged, when it’s outdated or a mismatched hodgepodge across the house, when you want a higher grade of security, or when you simply want a new finish or style on the door.
Ask yourself two questions. First: is the lock itself in good working order? If it turns smoothly and feels solid, it’s a strong candidate for rekeying. Second: what are you actually trying to accomplish? If the goal is purely key control — a move, a lost key, a tenant or roommate change — rekeying handles it. If you also want better security, a different look, or you’re tired of a lock that sticks, replacing is the better spend.
A few common cases: Just bought a home? Rekey everything — you don’t know who has the old keys, and rekeying retires them all at once. Lock feels loose, sticky, or looks tired? Lean toward replacing. Want the front, back, and side doors on one key? That’s a rekey (keyed-alike) job. Upgrading security on an exposed door? Replace with a higher-grade deadbolt.
There’s no universal answer, and anyone who gives you one without looking at the door is guessing. When we come out, we’ll tell you which way makes sense for your locks and your goal — and if a rekey solves it, we’ll say so rather than sell you hardware you don’t need. You can read more on our rekey & keys page.
Usually, since you keep the existing hardware and only change the pins. But if a lock is worn or failing, replacing can be the better value over time.
Most standard pin-tumbler locks can, as long as they’re in good working order and the key type is compatible. We’ll tell you if a particular lock is better replaced.
A local Pasadena locksmith is a call away — happy to advise before anything is booked.
