Replacing locks may seem confusing at times. When do you replace and when do you rekey? Is replacing the same as changing? What are the pros and cons to all this? Does it justify the cost? There are a lot of questions and real ambiguity when it comes to lock installation, change-outs or replacements. That’s why Everett Lock and Key decided to make this post. Read it and you’ll soon know more than most people about lock replacement and when and why you should do it.
Lock replacement is exactly what it sounds like; you take the old lock and change it out for a new one. A new lock means new keys since it is completely different hardware. This is also known as a change-out.
A rekey is completely different. When you rekey you keep the same lock and only the inside tumblers and springs are changed. This too forces you to have new keys as the old ones no longer work. Often, we hear the phrase “I’ll have the locks changed” and what they really mean is that they’ll order a rekey to be done. A good example of this is when a landlord “changes the locks” after a tenant skips out and takes the key with him.
Each circumstance is different so it’s really up to you to decide which service suits your situation. Everett Lock and Key offers both services and so do most other full-service lock and key shops in the local area. Many firms offer free price quotes and free consultations so call around and find an Everett, WA locksmith that you feel comfortable working with. They will be able to recommend which service is right for your needs and budget.
Having damaged home locks is one of the best reasons to replace the older ones. If you are the victim of a burglary, break-in or vandalism then you should have the locks replaced with newer ones. In most cases, the old locks are rendered useless anyway. At our shop we often are called after-hours to situations where the home locks have been somewhat damaged and no longer work. This calls for immediate action as the door must be locked for the night and in time for the resident to leave for work in the morning.
Our Everett Lock and Key professionals often replace locks that are perfectly good. This is to provide the homeowners with an upgrade to newer, better ones. You might seriously consider doing this very thing. 90% of builder installed home locks are minimum grade quality. Even if your home is a resell, the same original locks are still on the door. It is a sad fact that these locks can be picked, bumped, pried or smashed open in mere seconds by just about anyone, much less a seasoned crook or thief. Lock upgrade replacements don’t have to be expensive or inconvenient. Simply call a full service Everett, WA locksmith shop and ask about bump proof or high security locks. You’ll be amazed at the vast range of locks available to you from dozens of manufacturers and in all price ranges. Many shops offer same day installations and free price quotes so do yourself a favor and call one of them today.
Your auto locks can be replaced, too. Just like their residential counterparts, car locks can reflect wear, age and damage. This applies to all locks on the vehicle and not just the door or trunk locks. Included are ignition cylinder switches, glove compartment, and even center console locks. With car theft on the rise in almost every community, auto lock replacement due to break-in damage is becoming more prevalent.
Some local drivers switch to keyless entry systems for the added security and convenience it offers. This too involves replacing the older, original locks with new ones that now require a number sequence and/or a remote.
Some cars bought at auction or at police recovery sales don’t have whole or undamaged locks. These, too will need to have replacement hardware installed on them.
Each one of the thousands of Everett, WA local businesses are unique and have different lock requirements and uses. In each of these instances, the business locks are there to protect staff, customers, proprietors, inventory and location. These firms include dry cleaners, fast food locations, car washes, medical clinics, private schools, warehouses, apartment rentals, fine dining, home improvement, bakeries, bookstores, mattress shops and thousands more.
Just like home and auto locks, business lock hardware gets worn, ages and damaged with use and by weather, crime and lack of maintenance. Many times, local company locations are targeted by burglars as “easy money” because of cash on hand, inventory, lack of security, secluded location and other factors. Many businesses change ownership or management from time to time and this often leads to new locks being installed for better security and enhanced key control.
Commercial lock upgrades are also a huge reason that lock changes are done. Many times, these upgrades are tax deductible and included in the upcoming budget for the new quarter or year. Some of these improvements include video surveillance, high security locks, access control systems, master key conversions, fingerprint locks, panic bars, keyless entry, bump proof locks, deadbolt additions and even commercial safes and vaults.
Is lock replacement right for you? Only you can tell. Whether you are thinking about home, auto or business lock replacement, it pays (literally) to check around and do some research on your own. If you simply want new keys and a fresh start at better key distribution and control, order a rekey job. If you have lock damage or want to upgrade to higher quality hardware, order lock replacement. Don’t forget to call a local Everett, WA locksmith shop and discuss your wants, needs and concerns with them. Doing so can save you money and add peace of mind to your already busy life.