There’s something interesting about locks and keys. There are numerous movies and songs named after the set and for good cause. These two are a pair, and one would be meaningless without the other.
What Is Rekeying
However, the process of unlocking a door with a key is interesting. Without the ability of a locksmith near me to unlock a door through lockpicking, the door will not open. What happens, however, if you want to change the lock?
What Is Rekeying?
Although there are several types of locks available, the pin and tumbler lock is the most common. This type of lock operates by using various pins of different lengths and thicknesses inside a tumbler. When you move to a new residence, you may wish to change the lock. However, changing the keying method is sometimes all that is required. This is a common choice for security reasons more than anything else.
To rekey a lock, you must first remove and replace the pins. You must replace them with ones that match your new key, or else you will be locked out of your home. Learning this step by step is essential.
How to Rekey Locks
What Is Rekeying
Although there are many different kinds of locks, we will discuss rekeying a pin and tumbler lock today. Aside from old-school locks, this is common and one of the simplest types of locks to rekey.
But first, you’ll need to buy a rekey kit for the type of lock you have. Because not all brands have a rekey kit, you may have to go universal or replace the lock with compatible rekey kits in the future.
Step 1: Remove the Doorknob
The first step in the rekeying procedure is to remove the doorknob. The process of door knob removal varies, so check with the manufacturer or discover the guide that came with the doorknob.
It was sometimes necessary to turn the doorknob one way and the key the other. However, because this technique varies a lot, there is no general way to remove a doorknob. You may even require a specialized tool.
Step 2: Remove the Cylinder
You can now remove the cylinder from the inside after removing the doorknob. The cylinder may be easily removed. When pressed from the other side, it will just pop out the back, however, there could be a cap.
If there is a cap, you must first remove it by unscrewing it or using the manufacturer’s tool. With a little pressure, the cylinder will pop out the back. Then simply unclip the C-clip that is keeping the cylinder in place.
Step 3: Attach the Key Plug
The key plug is the first thing you’ll need to remove after the cylinder. You can do this with the tube that is provided within the rekeying kit. Insert the key into the lock and attach it to the back of the cylinder.
With this, you may remove the cylinder plug, giving you access to the pins that will be replaced shortly. When you have access, you can remove the pins by rotating the lock over and removing any stubborn ones with your fingers.
Step 4: Insert New Pieces
Now you can insert the new key and pins into the lock. Make sure you carefully follow the directions because messing up now isn’t as forgiving as it was when you were disassembling the lock.
Replace the plug into the cylinder, remove the plug follower, and test the key. Then, take out the follower and replace it with the C-clip. It should snap into place, letting you know you did it correctly.
Step 5: Put Doorknob Back
Now test the lock one more time before installing the doorknob. Before closing the door, test the lock after it has been reassembled. Then, after closing the door, test it again to ensure that someone stays on the inside.
If you don’t have two people, find someone you can rely on to help you. It’s essential to keep someone on the side of the door that can be manually unlocked; otherwise, you’ll end up locked outside and in need of a locksmith.
How To Rekey Deadbolt Locks
Some locks, such as deadbolts, are more difficult to rekey, but it is still possible to rekey them. All that you need is the proper equipment. If you wish to replace the deadbolt completely, that’s okay even if you rekey the other lock.
If you do rekey the deadbolt, ensure the bolt is completely out before removing the screws that secure the lock to the door. The cylinder is then removed as usual, and the retainer pin is removed.
Most deadbolt keys function similarly to other keys, therefore it is easy to replace them. The only tough part is removing the casing if you don’t know-how. Take it carefully and always have someone available to help you.
Types of Locks
There are numerous varieties of locks, each with its own set of applications. Some are used for security, while others are utilized for privacy. All of them are helpful and can be used in your home or outdoor buildings.
Deadbolts
External door deadbolt locks are made to keep predators and robbers out of your home. There are double, and single deadbolts available, with varying levels of security. The most popular type of lock is a single-cylinder deadbolt. The inside is a thumb turn, while the exterior is a key lock. A more secure variant includes a double key lock, which requires a key on both the outside and inside.
Knob Locks
Knob locks are frequently used together with deadbolts to provide a more basic level of security. They provide little security because they can be easily removed from the outside if someone wants to break in. Deadbolts are the locks’ security features. This is because the lock is located inside the doorknob rather than the door itself. So it is simple to break off, and once broken off, the door may be opened. That is why they are often used together with a deadbolt or on interior doors.
Lever Handle Locks
These are popular because they are simple to use. They can simply turn, making them ideal for seclusion in public areas like public restrooms. They should also not be used as the only way of security.
Mortise Locks
Because of the invention of cylinder locks, mortise locks are almost nonexistent in current buildings. This kind of lock necessitates a pocket in the door’s edge for the lock to fit into. They are less secure than contemporary locks.
Key Deposit Lock
These wall-mounted locks, paradoxically, are most commonly used for keys. They are commonly found in fire stations and on-wall-mounted boxes that are used for mail or other items that are usually stored in boxes that are wall-mounted.
Interchangeable Core Cylinder
Interchangeable Core Cylinders, often known as IC locks, are commonly used because they are simple to rekey. These simple to rekey locks accept two types of keys, making them highly universal.
Jimmy Proof Deadbolts
This is possibly the most secure sort of lock available. The position of the lock on the surface of the door makes it resistant to jimmying. Jimmying is the process of unlocking doors without the need for a key.
I Should Rekey My Lock or Not?
You are not alone if you are wondering whether to rekey or replace your lock. Most people come to this point for good reason. Rekeying is a time-consuming process that isn’t always worthwhile. Consider two factors to determine if it is worthwhile or not. Is your lock pricey, and do you like it? If the lock is rare and expensive, and you adore it, rekey it rather than replace it with a new lock.
However, if the lock is just like any other lock and you don’t like it, you should replace it. New locks and doorknobs aren’t too pricey. Choosing a new doorknob and deadbolt for your new house might even be fun!