Rekeying your locks is an important security measure that can help protect your home and belongings. Whether you’ve moved into a new house, lost a key, or want to ensure that former tenants or contractors no longer have access to your property, rekeying is an efficient and cost-effective way to enhance your security. This guide will walk you through the process of safely rekeying your locks, so you can rest easy knowing that only the people you trust have access.
Why Rekey Your Locks?
There are several situations where rekeying is a smart decision:
- Lost Keys: If you’ve misplaced a key, it’s best to rekey your lock to prevent anyone from finding and using it.
- Moved Into a New Home: Previous owners or tenants may still have copies of the keys. Rekeying ensures you’re the only one with access.
- Change of Personnel: If you’ve had contractors, service workers, or roommates with a key, rekeying your locks will prevent them from accessing your property once they no longer need it.
- Increased Security: Rekeying offers peace of mind and is a more affordable option than replacing all of your locks.
Tools You’ll Need for Rekeying Locks
Before you begin the process, gather the following tools:
- A rekeying kit (specific to your lock brand)
- A screwdriver (usually flathead)
- Tweezers (for handling small pins)
- Key blanks (new keys)
- Lubricant (to ensure smooth operation)
Most rekeying kits come with the necessary tools, including pinning instructions tailored to your lock system.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Rekeying Your Locks
1. Remove the Lock From the Door
The first step is to take the lock off the door. Using a screwdriver, remove the screws from the lock plate or knob. After that, carefully pull the lock out of the door. This may require removing any decorative covers or handles that are part of the lock mechanism.
2. Disassemble the Lock Cylinder
Once the lock is off, you need to disassemble the lock cylinder. The cylinder is the part of the lock where the key is inserted, and it contains the pins that match the key’s cuts. Open the lock cylinder carefully by removing any screws or clips that hold it in place. Some locks have a retaining clip or pin, so ensure you’re familiar with how to open it without damaging any internal parts.
3. Remove the Old Pins
Inside the lock cylinder, you will find a series of small pins of various lengths. These pins correspond to the cuts on the old key. Using tweezers or a pinning tool, carefully remove each pin. As you remove them, be mindful of the order and position of the pins because you’ll need to replace them with new ones of the correct size.
4. Insert New Pins
Now, replace the old pins with the new pins included in your rekeying kit. The new pins should match the cuts on your new key. This step is crucial because the length of the pins determines how the lock will engage with the new key. Carefully insert each pin into its designated slot. If you’re unsure about the size of the pins, consult the pinning chart that comes with the rekeying kit.
5. Reassemble the Lock Cylinder
Once all the pins are replaced, reassemble the lock cylinder. Ensure that everything fits securely and that no pins or springs are out of place. You may need to replace any retaining clips or screws that hold the cylinder together.
6. Test the New Key
Before reinstalling the lock, test the new key in the lock cylinder. Insert the key and turn it to make sure it works smoothly. If the key doesn’t turn, there might be an issue with the pin lengths or pin placement. If it works correctly, proceed to the next step.
7. Reinstall the Lock
Once you’re satisfied with the operation of the new key, reinstall the lock back into the door. Secure it in place with the screws you removed earlier. If the lock has any decorative pieces or covers, replace those as well.
8. Lubricate the Lock
To ensure smooth operation, apply a small amount of lock lubricant to the keyhole and internal moving parts of the lock. This will help keep the lock functioning properly and reduce wear and tear over time.
Tips for Successful Rekeying
- Take Notes: If you’re rekeying multiple locks, make sure to label each one or take notes on the pinning configurations to avoid confusion.
- Consult the Manual: Different locks may have slightly different mechanisms, so refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the most accurate guidance.
- Test Each Lock: After rekeying multiple locks, test each one thoroughly to ensure they function smoothly and the new key works perfectly.
- Consider Professional Help: If you’re unsure about rekeying or don’t have the right tools, it’s always a good idea to hire a locksmith. A professional can rekey your locks quickly and correctly.
Conclusion
Rekeying your locks is a great way to ensure your home’s security without the high cost of replacing all your locks. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can easily rekey your locks yourself and enjoy peace of mind knowing that only trusted individuals have access to your home. Always take your time and follow the instructions carefully to ensure a successful rekeying process. Whether you’re moving into a new home or simply upgrading your security, rekeying is a smart and effective solution.