Rekeying a deadbolt lock can be a cost-effective and convenient way to enhance your home security without replacing the electronic deadbolt lock. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Materials Needed:
- Rekeying kit specific to your lock brand
- Current key
- New key
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
Steps to Rekey a Deadbolt Lock:
Prepare for Rekeying:
Purchase a rekeying kit that matches your deadbolt brand. These kits usually come with several types of pins, a key gauge, and other necessary tools.
Remove the Deadbolt:
Use a screwdriver to remove the screws from the deadbolt on the interior side of the door. Carefully take out the interior and exterior parts of the lock.
Take Out the Cylinder:
Locate the cylinder, which is the part of the lock that the key goes into. Use the key to turn the plug slightly to align the cylinder for removal. Pull out the cylinder from the housing.
Remove the Plug:
Insert the current key into the cylinder and turn it to unlock the plug. Use a plug follower (a tool included in the rekeying kit) to push the plug out of the cylinder, ensuring the pins and springs do not fall out.
Replace the Old Pins:
With the plug removed, dump out the old pins from the plug. Use the key gauge to measure the new key and find the corresponding pins. Insert the new pins into the plug according to the new key’s configuration.
Reassemble the Lock:
Once the new pins are in place, reinsert the plug into the cylinder using the plug follower to keep the pins and springs in place. Ensure the plug is aligned correctly and functions smoothly with the new key.
Reinstall the Deadbolt:
Place the cylinder back into the deadbolt housing. Reattach the interior and exterior parts of the lock to the door using the screws you removed earlier.
Test the Lock:
Insert the new key and turn it to ensure the electronic deadbolt lock operates correctly. The deadbolt should extend and retract smoothly without any issues.
When to Rekey a Deadbolt Lock vs. Replace a Deadbolt Lock
When to Rekey Your Door Locks
- Rekeying involves adjusting the internal components of your existing Deadbolt Lock so it operates with a new key, rendering old keys ineffective. Consider rekeying in the following scenarios:
- Change in Occupancy: If a roommate moves out, a relationship ends, or someone who had temporary access no longer requires it, rekeying ensures they can’t access your home. Even if they return their key, there’s no guarantee duplicates haven’t been made.
- Lost or Stolen Keys: Misplaced or stolen keys pose a security risk. Rekeying the Deadbolt Lock ensures that the lost or stolen key can no longer grant access.
- Simplifying Access: If you’re juggling multiple keys for different deadbolt locks in your home, rekeying can unify them to operate with a single key, streamlining access.
When to Replace Your Door Locks
Replacing a digital deadbolt lock entails removing the existing hardware and installing a new one. Situations warranting a full replacement include:
- Lost Keys Without a Spare: If you’ve lost your key and don’t have a duplicate, rekeying isn’t possible. In this case, replacing the digital deadbolt lock is necessary to regain access and ensure security.
- Upgrading Security or Aesthetics: When aiming to enhance your home’s security with an advanced digital deadbolt lock or desiring a different style, replacing the entire lock is the appropriate choice.
- Damaged or Worn-Out digital deadbolt lock: Locks that are malfunctioning, damaged, or showing signs of wear should be replaced to maintain optimal security and functionality.
Conclusion
Choosing between rekeying and replacing your digital deadbolt lock depends on your specific circumstances and security needs. Rekeying is a cost-effective solution for situations like lost keys or changing access permissions, while replacing an electronic deadbolt lock is advisable for upgrading security, addressing damage, or when rekeying isn’t feasible. Assess your situation carefully to determine the best course of action for your home’s safety.
