How to Rekey a Residential Lock for Enhanced Security
Consider upgrading your safe heaven by considering a change of door lock. Whatever the reason is:
- Moving to a new house.
- Previously experienced burglary.
- Want to upgrade your house’s security?
Here is a simple yet cost-effective solution to recurring security problems: rekeying some important locks. Rekeying locks offers various advantages; the prime ones are enhanced security and infinite convenience.
With a pile of keys hanging onto a keychain, it comes heavy and cluttered. Carrying this pile of keys makes it a hassle to find the right one at the right time. Want to lighten up your load? Instead of replacing the locks altogether, you need to properly understand optimal timing along with the right rekeying methods for rekeying a residential lock for enhanced security.
Rekeying a lock, Perfectly Explained!
To rekey a lock refers to the adjustment of the internal setups of the lock in a specific order so that it can be accessed with a different kind of key. It is indeed the best solution rather than changing the entire lock setup.
Pin and tumbler locks are found in deadbolts and doorknobs; a steel cutaway is right in the center with a cylindrical plug chained with pins and springs. The trick lies in aligning the specific pin with the groove to open the lock. These pins come in various heights and are replaced with the previous ones following the grooves. This replacement on the new key ensures the smooth functioning of the key. If you want to know more, land on our main page and learn about Audi Key Services South Florida.
How To Rekey a Residential Lock, a Step-by-Sep Guide
Step 1: Gather your Tools
To begin with, start analyzing your lock according to your needs and requirements. Before you dive into installation, make sure all your gadgets are handy. The list includes a screwdriver, pencil, hammer, measuring tape, lockset, and, most importantly, the rekeying kit.
Step 2: Old Lock Removal
Start with the lock removal. It involves the removal of the lock plate with the help of a screwdriver. First, you need to unscrew the part of the lock inside it. After unscrewing the interior of the lock, carefully pull the lock and detach it from the door.
Step 3: Cylinder Acess
Now it is time for cylinder identification; look closely and locate the cylinder. The cylinder is the section of the lock into which the teeth of keys are inserted. Now, it’s time to utilize the rekeying kit. Use the tools to access and modify it. Be gentle and cautious as the lock interiors might disband with hard strokes of tools.
Step 4: New key insertion
You will find fresh pins and keys inside the rekeying kit. Carefully read all instructions inside the manual and make sure to adhere to the provided set of guidelines strictly. Follow the instructions and then install new pins. The provided pins are specifically tailored according to new key sets, which is why fixing them according to the cylinder is integral.
Step 5: Reassembling
Once the pins are settled, move toward the cylinder’s reinsertion into the lock’s section. Make sure to snug the cylinder properly. Double-check for any loose nuts and ensure a tight fix if needed. Now, it’s time to reinstall the lock. Affix the lock right back into the door hardware. Secure every nut and bolt tightly to maintain its stability. Firmly secure everything into the place before you insert the key again.
Step 6: Lock Testing
Now, it’s time to test your new pair of keys manually. Insert the keys into the lock and check if there is any resistance. Ideally, it should turn smoothly without any hardness. Still, If you feel any resistance, try locking and unlocking it several times to remove any bumps. Moreover, open and close the door several times to ensure it works seamlessly. If everything goes well, then Hurray, you have made it!
Step 7: Troubleshooting
Sometimes, despite best efforts, you may encounter an issue. In such cases, it is advisable to seek professional locksmith help.
Rekeying Vs. Lock Replacing: What is the Difference?
Rekeying is often confused with replacing a lock, but this is wrong as both methods are completely different and serve different purposes. If we talk about rekeying, as told earlier, it is a method in which the internal locks are modified specifically to work according to a new key. It is a straightforward yet cost-effective method without changing the entire lock.
On the other hand, lock replacement replaces the entire lock and overhauls the complete mechanism, such as nuts, bolts, lock, and key. This method is costly and laborious as well. It should only be opted in desperate situations where you can’t compromise security.
Hence, rekeying is more favorable as it provides both security and affordability.
Conclusion
Our guide has provided you with enough assistance. But still, if you want to learn more about such queries, head to our main page and discover all insights regarding Bentley Key Services South Florida.