You just moved into your new North Vancouver home. Or you’ve lost your keys. Or you’re worried about who has copies of your house keys. At some point, most homeowners face this question: should I rekey my locks or replace them entirely?
The answer isn’t always obvious. Both options solve security problems, but they differ in cost, timeline, and what they actually do to your locks. Understanding the difference helps you make the right choice for your situation and budget.
The Core Difference: What Rekeying Actually Does
Rekeying changes the internal components of your lock so that old keys no longer work. A locksmith removes the lock cylinder, takes out the pins inside, and replaces them with a new configuration. Your lock mechanism stays the same. The keyhole, the deadbolt, the outside appearance—all unchanged.
When you replace a lock, you’re removing the entire lock assembly and installing a brand new one. Different brand, different style, different everything. It’s a complete swap.
Cost Breakdown: What You’ll Actually Pay
Rekeying costs between $80 and $150 per lock in North Vancouver, depending on the lock type and complexity. A locksmith can rekey most residential locks in 15 to 30 minutes. If you have four exterior doors, you’re looking at $320 to $600 total.
Lock replacement runs $150 to $350 per lock, sometimes higher if you want upgraded hardware or smart lock installation. You’re paying for the new lock itself plus installation time. Four new locks could cost $600 to $1,400.
The math is simple: rekeying is roughly half the price of replacement. But cheaper doesn’t always mean it’s the right choice.
When Rekeying Makes Sense
Rekey your locks when your current hardware is structurally sound but the key situation has changed.
You moved into a new home or rental. The previous owner or landlord may have copies of the keys. Rekeying costs far less than replacing perfectly good locks and gives you the only working set of keys.
You lost your keys or they were stolen. You don’t know who might have copies. Rekeying is the fast, economical way to regain security without buying new hardware.
A contractor, cleaner, or family member had a key you want to invalidate. Rekeying makes those old keys useless while keeping your existing locks in place.
Your locks are relatively new and function well. If the hardware closes smoothly, the deadbolt engages properly, and there’s no visible wear, rekeying makes financial sense.
When Replacement Is the Better Option
Replace your locks when the hardware itself is compromised or worn beyond what rekeying can fix.
Your locks are old or show visible damage. Rusted cylinders, broken keys stuck inside, loose bolts, or mechanisms that stick and bind are signs the lock is failing. Rekeying won’t fix mechanical problems.
You want to upgrade your security. Maybe you want a deadbolt with a higher security rating. Maybe you’re moving from a basic key lock to a smart lock with remote access. Rekeying an old lock won’t give you new capabilities.
Your locks have been compromised. If a lock has been picked, bumped, or forced, the internal mechanism may be damaged even if it still works. Replacement ensures a fully intact security system.
Multiple locks are worn or failing. If you need to fix several locks, the cost difference between rekeying and replacement shrinks. You might as well upgrade everything.
A Practical Decision Framework
Ask yourself these questions in order:
- Is the lock mechanism working properly? If no, you need replacement.
- Am I changing who has access to my keys? If yes, and the lock works fine, rekeying is faster and cheaper.
- Do I want to upgrade my security or add features? If yes, replacement lets you choose better hardware or smart locks.
- What’s my budget? If rekeying several locks, total cost might approach replacement. Consider replacing everything and getting consistent hardware.
For most North Vancouver homeowners, a common scenario is this: move into a home, rekey the exterior locks immediately to secure your new property, and plan a longer-term upgrade to smart locks for the front door within a year or two.
What a Locksmith Will Recommend
A reputable locksmith will give you honest advice, not just the most expensive option. They can also recommend a hybrid approach: rekey your basic residential deadbolts to save money, then upgrade your front entry door with a new smart lock that gives you remote access and guest codes.
If you’re not sure, call a locksmith for an assessment before making a decision. A professional can evaluate your locks and give you a clear recommendation.
FAQ
Can a locksmith rekey any lock?
Most residential locks can be rekeyed, including deadbolts and doorknob locks. Some high-security locks and certain smart locks cannot be rekeyed and must be replaced. A locksmith can tell you immediately whether your locks are candidates for rekeying.
How long does rekeying take?
Rekeying a single lock typically takes 15 to 30 minutes. If you have multiple locks, a locksmith might rekey them all in one visit, usually within an hour for four exterior doors.
Is rekeying more secure than replacing the lock?
Rekeying and replacement are equally secure in terms of preventing old keys from working. The real security difference is about the lock hardware itself. If your current locks are mechanically sound, rekeying is just as secure as replacement.