Posted on July 19th, 2023

Everyone finds themselves locked out from home or vehicle at one point or another. It' s an inconvenience that we'd all like to avoid, but sometimes it's unavoidable. 

But when it does happen, you want a trusted locksmith to solve the problem as quickly as possible.

Should you go for a lock rekey or lock replacement? That's what we'll discuss in this blog post.

When Should You Rekey Your Locks?

Rekeying involves adjusting the lock mechanism so it can work with a new key. It's often a cost-effective solution that doesn't require changing the entire lock, making it a popular choice for those who have lost their keys or moved into a new home. But when is the right time to rekey your locks?

The Right Time for Rekeying

Rekeying your locks is advisable when you're not sure who else might have a copy of your keys. For example, if you've just moved into a new home in Nassau County, it's a wise decision to rekey the locks. This way, you can ensure you're the only one with access to your home.

Furthermore, rekeying is an effective solution for businesses in Long Island, Great Neck, or Hyde Park that want to revoke access from former employees without changing all the locks.

In Suffolk or any other area, if you've lost your keys and are worried that they might fall into the wrong hands, rekeying is an immediate solution. A trusted locksmith in these areas can rekey your locks swiftly and ensure your peace of mind.

When Should You Replace Your Locks?

Lock replacement involves changing the entire lock, including the hardware. It's often necessary when the lock is damaged or when upgrading to a more secure or modern lock.

Recognizing the Need for Lock Replacement

If your lock has been damaged - whether through an attempted break-in, wear and tear, or malfunction - then lock replacement is often the best choice. A locksmith in Roslyn or New Hyde Park can assess the damage and recommend the best course of action.

In cases where you're upgrading your security system, replacing locks can be the right choice. If you're in Williston Park or any other area in Nassau County, and you're installing a smart home system, you may need to replace your traditional locks with smart locks.

Lastly, if you're in a building lockout situation and the lock is deemed irreparable by a locksmith in NYC or Mineola, lock replacement is the only option.

Lock Repair: Understanding When It's Possible

Sometimes, lock malfunctions don't necessarily require replacement or rekeying. A lock repair can be an equally effective solution.

The Feasibility of Lock Repair

Lock repair is most effective when the damage to the lock is minimal. For instance, if the lock is sticky or stiff, a locksmith in Port Washington NY or Manhasset might be able to repair it without needing to replace or rekey.

However, repair isn't always an option. Sometimes, a lock is beyond repair, or it might be cheaper and more effective to replace it. A locksmith in Garden City or other parts of Long Island can assess the lock and advise you on the best course of action.

The Cost Factor: Rekeying vs. Lock Replacement

The cost of rekeying versus lock replacement often plays a significant role in the decision-making process. But it's important to weigh the cost against the value you're getting.

Balancing Cost and Value

Generally, rekeying is less expensive than lock replacement since it doesn't involve new hardware. However, if your lock is old or compromised, replacing it might be worth the extra cost for the added security and peace of mind. A locksmith in Suffolk County or Great Neck can provide a detailed quote for both options.

Conclusion

Whether you're dealing with a home lockout, a building lockout, or looking to upgrade your security system, you have a choice between rekeying and replacing your locks. 

Your decision should depend on your specific situation and the expert advice of trusted locksmiths in your area.

At 24/7 Locksmith in Roslyn, we offer lockout services in Nassau County, Suffolk County, Long Island, Great Neck, Williston Park, Hyde Park, New Hyde Park, Roslyn, Manhasset, Washington NY, Garden City, and Mineola. 

Whether you're facing a lockout, need a lock repair or replacement, or want to rekey your locks, we can help. 

Reach out to us at 929-255-5087 or email us at [email protected]. We're always here to help you with your locksmith needs.