Rekey A Lock | Rekeying Service
Rekeying
Rekeying normally refers to the ability to change a lock so that
a different key may operate it. Rekeying is done
when a lock owner may be concerned that unauthorized persons have
keys to the lock, so the lock may be altered by a locksmith so that
only new keys will work. Rekeying may be done without replacement
of the entire lock.
Rekeying was first invented in 1836 by Solomon Andrews, a New
Jersey locksmith. His lock had adjustable tumblers and keys,
allowing the owner to rekey it at any time. Later in the 1850s,
inventors Andrews and Newell patented removable tumblers which
could be taken apart and scrambled. The keys had bits that were
interchangeable, matching varying tumbler configurations.
Rekeying a simple and basic lock would cost anywhere from the 20
- 40 dollar price range and would take a matter of minutes to rekey
once disassembled. A more hi-tech lock or a high security lock
would be a bit more expensive to rekey and would also take a bit
longer.
Rekeying
your locks is probably the quickest way to refresh your home or
office security once in a while and is has "bang for buck" value
above all. Not all locks may be rekeyed but most of the locks out
there can be rekeyed and if you own one that can't be rekeyed there
is a good chance you would know about that owning a lock like
that.
Statistics show that almost 92% percent of
Americans are unaware to this method of lock configuration and most
of them will have a locksmith install a brand new lock just because
of that exact reason, so before you go ahead and swap your old
locks consult with someone, better a locksmith, about this
situation.
Lock keyway shapes vary widely with lock manufacturer and of
course rekeying is a process deemed optional for only the regular
keyway locks, and many manufacturers have a number of unique
profiles requiring a specifically milled key to engage this lock's
tumblers and turn the cylinder. Any lock that does not have a
regular double "S" keyway will not be applicable to rekeying for
it is a specialty lock and the manufacturer does not
offer any customization for these locks or keyways.
Call a locksmith today to find out if you are able to rekey your
locks, and if so schedule a locksmith for today and give your home
or office security a nice jolt and refresh it.