For the most part, improving home security usually entails changing or rekeying door locks. Therefore, should you opt for the latter alternative, knowledge of how to rekey a lock will come in handy. The following guide streamlines the process and provides a practical step-by-step approach to rekeying locks for your home.
The Mechanics Behind Locks
The rekeying a lock process can be more straightforward when you have at least some basic knowledge of how traditional locks operate using pins and tumblers.
Understanding the process that locks go through to be rekeyed and to change door locks can help you understand and learn the process of rekeying your locks without having to pay a relatively cheap amount to have a locksmith do it for you. Here is another guide on the subject.
Detailed Steps to Rekey a Lock
Preparing for Rekeying
The very first step to rekey a lock is to get a rekeying kit specific to the brand of your lock. These have everything, even different-sized pins, and a key gauge for ease.
Removal of the Lock Components
The process of rekeying locks by a locksmith begins with removing the doorknob, which generally requires the knob to be unscrewed through some holes on the sides of the knob using a tool. After this, the cylinder is to be removed from the knob assembly for disassembling.
The Rekeying Process
On the other hand, use that hand, which previously had the follower tube, to pull the key plug and the follower tube out of the cylinder with the c-clip. This, in turn, allows you to dump out the old pins and install new ones according to the specifications of your new key. It is a precise process to ensure the new key properly operates the lock.
Reassembling and Testing
Installation of all the new pins is followed by the insertion of the plug in the cylinder, and after that, the knob is attached to the door again. Now, you have to put your new key in to test a couple of times that your rekey has been successful.
Rekeying a Deadbolt
The deadbolt works on much the same principle as the doorknob. If it’s the same brand as the deadbolt, then deadbolt rekeying is quite simple and allows you to have a unified key system throughout your house.
Deciding Between Rekeying and Changing Door Locks
In some cases, changing the door lock rather than rekeying would be better. For example, wearing locks or updating the house’s appearance calls for the replacement of locks. Other instances include a condition where you have locks with different brands and want them to have just one key; you should change all your door locks to just one brand before rekeying.
Conclusion
Information on how to rekey a lock and when to change door locks remain two of the key points to maintaining the necessity of security and convenience in a home.
The post has looked at an extensive overview of the process, from which the reader learned about lock mechanics and the step-by-step instructions required to rekey doorknobs and deadbolts. With these guidelines, your home locks will be bound to meet your security requirements without having to replace them extensively.
See what is involved with how to rekey a lock and when a change of door locks would be better warranted. Follow our expert guide to secure your home effectively.