Should You Rekey or Replace Your Locks? A Homeowner's Guide

Not sure whether to rekey or replace your home's locks? Learn the key differences, costs, and when each option makes sense for your situation.

When you move into a new home or want to improve your security, one of the first questions is: “Should I rekey my locks or replace them entirely?” The answer depends on your situation, but understanding the difference can save you hundreds of dollars.

What is Lock Rekeying?

Rekeying means changing the internal pins and springs inside your existing lock cylinder so that old keys no longer work. You keep the same physical locks but get new keys.

How it works:

Locksmith removes the lock cylinder
Takes out the old pins and springs
Installs new pins in a different configuration
Cuts new keys to match the new pin setup
Reinstalls the cylinder

Result: Your locks look exactly the same, but old keys won’t work. Takes 10-15 minutes per lock.

What is Lock Replacement?

Lock replacement means removing the entire lock hardware and installing completely new locks.

When you replace:

Remove old deadbolts, knobs, and strike plates
Install entirely new lock hardware
Receive new keys for the new locks

Result: Brand new lock hardware with fresh keys. Takes 20-30 minutes per lock.

Cost Comparison: Rekey vs Replace

Rekeying Costs (Austin, TX)

Standard locks: $35-$45 per lock
High-security locks: $55-$65 per lock
Rekey to match: No extra charge (one key fits all)

Example: 3 doors rekeyed = $105-$135 total

Replacement Costs (Austin, TX)

Standard lock sets: $150-$200 per door
High-security locks: $200-$300 per door
Smart locks: $200-$400 per door

Example: 3 doors with new locks = $450-$600 total

Bottom line: Rekeying costs 60-75% less than replacement.

When to Rekey Your Locks

Just bought a house - Previous owners may have key copies
Former tenant moved out - Ensure they can’t return
Lost your keys - Cheaper than replacing everything
Someone had access - Contractor, ex-partner, etc.
Locks work fine - No mechanical issues
Want one key for all doors - “Rekey to match” service
Budget-conscious security - Maximum security at minimum cost

When to Replace Your Locks

Locks are damaged or worn - Key hard to turn, loose handle
Old, outdated locks - Built before 2000, basic security
Want to upgrade security - Moving to Grade 1 deadbolts
Different lock brands - Unmatched hardware looks bad
Adding smart locks - Modern keyless entry systems
Broken internal mechanisms - Beyond rekeying repair
Insurance requirements - Some policies require Grade 1

Best Option for Common Situations

New Homeowner in Austin

Best: Rekey all locks

Previous owners shouldn’t have access
Existing locks usually work fine
Rekey to match = one key for everything
Save money for other home improvements

Cost: $150-$250 for average home (4-5 locks)

Rental Property Owner

Best: Rekey between tenants

Quick and cost-effective
Ensures former tenants can’t access
Rekey to match your master key system
Budget-friendly for multiple properties

Cost: $35-$45 per lock, scheduled in bulk

Security Upgrade

Best: Replace with high-security locks

Old locks lack modern security features
Grade 1 deadbolts resist forced entry
Consider smart locks for convenience
Long-term investment in home security

Cost: $600-$1,200 for full home upgrade

Broken or Damaged Locks

Best: Replace the broken locks

Rekeying won’t fix mechanical problems
Match new locks to existing style if possible
Consider upgrading all locks while you’re at it

Cost: $150-$300 per damaged lock

Can You Rekey Locks Yourself?

Technically yes, but we don’t recommend it.

DIY rekeying requires:

Rekeying kit ($15-$30)
Understanding of pin tumbler mechanics
Patience and steady hands
Risk of making locks unusable

Professional advantages:

Done correctly the first time
Rekey to match all locks
No risk of breaking your locks
10-15 minutes vs. hours of frustration
Costs only $35-$45 per lock

Rekey to Match: Best of Both Worlds

The most popular choice for Austin homeowners is “rekey to match” - where we rekey all your locks so one key opens everything.

Benefits:

One key for front, back, and side doors
No more fumbling with multiple keys
Easy to make spare keys
Same cost as regular rekeying

Perfect for:

Front door, back door, garage entry
Multi-story homes
Families with kids (fewer keys to lose)

Smart Locks: A Third Option

Consider smart locks if:

You want keyless entry
Frequent Airbnb/rental use (temporary codes)
Kids come home before you
Integration with home automation

Popular brands we install:

August Smart Lock Pro
Schlage Encode
Kwikset Halo
Yale Assure

Cost: $200-$400 per lock (installed and programmed)

Questions to Ask Before Deciding

Ask yourself:

Do my current locks work smoothly?
Are they decent quality (Schlage, Kwikset, Yale)?
Is this just about key control or security upgrade?
What’s my budget?
Do I want matching hardware appearance?

If your locks are functional: Rekey them If they’re damaged or insecure: Replace them

How Austin Homeowners Save Money

Smart approach:

Rekey working locks (front, back, garage)
Replace only damaged/outdated locks
Rekey to match all locks (one key)
Upgrade security where it matters (primary entry points)

This hybrid approach maximizes security while minimizing cost.

Professional Rekeying in Austin

We provide residential lock rekeying throughout:

South Austin
Round Rock
Pflugerville
Cedar Park
Georgetown
Leander
Buda

Same-day service available All locks rekeyed to match No damage guaranteed

The Bottom Line

For most Austin homeowners, rekeying is the smart choice:

Costs 60-75% less than replacement
Provides same security benefit
Quick service (same day)
Rekey to match = ultimate convenience

Replace locks only when they’re damaged, insecure, or you want a complete upgrade.

Ready to rekey your Austin home? Call (512) 777-0915 for same-day service.

South Austin Locksmith provides residential rekeying and lock replacement throughout Austin and surrounding areas. Licensed, insured, and locally owned since 2015. Serving new homeowners, rental properties, and security-conscious families.