In a modern world where we all are well blessed by science and technology, few may actually worry how fragile our security systems could be. Here is news for you to worry about- about every 18 seconds, a burglary takes place in the United States! Pretty Shocking, isn’t it?
I know, I know! No lock in the world is 100% secure. No matter how secure we built our locks, there will surely be some bad guy out trying to disable our lock. So you should keep in mind that your goal should not be about making our fort impenetrable.
Your goal should be about protecting your assets and prevent break-ins as affordable as possible. For that, you can do it using either rekeying locks or by using rekeyable locks. Out of many ways to secure your home or your local business, here we will talk about rekeying locks vs. rekeyable locks and see which one is right for you. Join me.
Rekeying locks vs Rekeyable locks
Surely, they do have their use and advantages. Not a single solution can be applied everywhere. So without further ado, let us begin with Rekeying locks.
Rekeying Locks
So, what is it? I know that this takes a bit of explanation, and you must have been confused by the terminology in the packet, but here I am to simplify it for you. These are the type of locks where the pins of the lock are changeable. When you change the lock’s pins, your old key will not work, and you will need a key.
This is because “Every series of key pins in your lock correspond to a specific key so when you replace those pins with different ones, you essentially set a new key that will now operate the lock.” Even though it sounds like a big sweaty job for one person but with the right tool in the right hand, it would only take a couple of minutes!
What are the Advantages of Rekeying Locks?
Indeed rekeying comes to good use and benefits. Here are a few of them.
- If it is your conventional lock, it would be way cheaper than buying a new one. Plus, you can do it over and over again. Buying a new one would not be a very smart move.
- If you replace all the keys in your shop or home with a similar pin pattern, only one key will be enough for you to carry around.
- You can keep the existing hardware. This is a good thing because sometimes it is hard to find a matching lock with the door. And also, you do not have to worry about disposing of the old locks.
- With this opportunity, you can evaluate the current locks’ condition. It is kind of like a medical check-up, but for the locks.
- For use on exterior doors where keyed entry and security is needed
- Universal handing; fits both right handed and left handed doors
- Featuring SmartKey re-key technology; re-key the lock yourself in seconds in 3 easy steps
- ANSI/BHMA grade 3 certified
- Features an adjustable latch to fit all standard door preparations
What are the Disadvantages of Rekeying Locks?
- It may not worth the Locksmith cost if your lock is really cheap.
- You are not increasing any level of security, just changing it.
Even though it is cheaper in comparison, it still cost! If you are running a local business, the expense could be even greater. So you might be wondering about cheaper solutions. Fortunately, there are Rekeyable locks!
Rekeyable Locks
Rekeyable locks are indeed a work of masterpiece, a work of ingenuity! Imagine changing a lock with just one turn of the key. That’s right; you can do that with rekeyable locks. Using, “step change” method, anyone can change the lock, and you do not have to change, remove or replace any part of the lock.
So how can you do it?
Even you can do it without the help of professionals or a Locksmith. Follow the steps shown below.
- At first, Insert a notched step key into the cylinder. Slowly and carefully turn it 180 degrees. The wafer is displaced, so the old keys will now come in no use.
- Turn the key to disengage and capture wafers. Now the process of rekeying is implemented.
- Now return the key to its original position to create a modified pin. By removing wafers from different stacks in different chambers, the lock can be changed at any level.
- Set the key so that the cylinder can reload a new and totally different lock combination. Lastly, extract the key.
What are the Advantages of Rekeyable Locks?
Let us have a look at the advantages of rekeyable locks.
- You can keep the existing hardware. This is a good thing because sometimes it is hard to find a matching lock with the door. And also, you do not have to worry about disposing of the old locks.
- You can do it yourself, right? So additional expense for hiring a handyman or a locksmith is unnecessary.
- Improving and updating your lock is now faster and at your will.
What are the Disadvantages of Rekeyable Locks?
With all the disadvantages mentioned above, it’s time we focus on its dark side.
- Since you are doing it yourself, it is always possible to screw things up. In that case, you may end up spending more.
- If you have a local business and have to deal with a lot of locks, you may have to do it for all of them. This would be a tiresome job for you.
So Who Won the Fight?
There is no finite answer to that. It depends on what you are protecting and for how long.
If flexibility, affordability, and the long run is your goal, try rekeyable locks. It suits you better. If you have to deal with a lot of locks, then rekeying locks will come to better use for you. Remember, it is for your security, and you know your need more than anyone. So, choose the one who comes to your advantage and benefits.