Have you ever moved into a new home or office and wondered who else might have a key to the front door? Or have you ever lost a key and worried that someone might find it and use it to gain access to your property? In situations like these, rekeying your locks can provide peace of mind and added security. But what does it mean to rekey a lock, and how is it done? Let’s take a closer look.
What is Lock Rekeying?
Rekeying a lock involves changing the lock’s internal pins or wafer tumblers so that it will no longer open with the original key. Instead, a new key is used to operate the lock. Rekeying a lock is different from replacing the entire lock mechanism, which involves removing the old lock and installing a new one.
Why Rekey Your Locks?
Rekeying your locks can be a cost-effective alternative to replacing them. It’s also a good idea to rekey your locks when you move into a new home or office, or if you’ve lost a key. By rekeying your locks, you can ensure that only you and authorized individuals have access to your property.
Types of Locks and Pins
Different types of locks have different types of pins or wafer tumblers. The most common types of locks include pin tumbler locks, wafer tumbler locks, and disc tumbler locks.
Pin Tumbler Locks: Pin tumbler locks are the most common type of lock and are used in residential and commercial settings. These locks have a series of spring-loaded pins that rest in a set of cylinders within the lock body. The pins are of different lengths, and the key has grooves of different depths that correspond to the lengths of the pins. When the correct key is inserted, the pins are lifted to the correct height, allowing the lock to turn and open.
Wafer Tumbler Locks: Wafer tumbler locks are commonly found in automobile doors and ignitions. These locks have a series of flat, spring-loaded wafers that rest in a series of cylinders within the lock body. The key has grooves that correspond to the position of the wafers. When the correct key is inserted, the wafers are lifted to the correct height, allowing the lock to turn and open.
Disc Tumbler Locks: Disc tumbler locks are commonly used in vending machines and some vehicles. These locks have a series of flat, spring-loaded discs that rotate within the lock body. The key has notches that correspond to the position of the discs. When the correct key is inserted, the discs are rotated to the correct position, allowing the lock to turn and open.
Rekeying a Lock
Rekeying a lock involves removing the lock cylinder from the lock body and replacing the pins or wafers with new ones of different sizes. The new pins or wafers are arranged in a specific pattern based on the grooves of the new key. Once the new pins or wafers are installed, the lock cylinder is reinserted into the lock body, and the new key is tested to ensure that it operates the lock correctly.
In conclusion, rekeying your locks is a simple and cost-effective way to ensure that your property is secure. Locksmiths have the expertise and tools necessary to rekey different types of locks, including pin tumbler locks, wafer tumbler locks, and disc tumbler locks. So, whether you’ve lost a key or want to improve the security of your home or office, consider contacting a locksmith to rekey your locks today.
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