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When Should I Replace My Locks?

Locksmith Wood DaleKeeping one’s home safe and secure is a priority for every homeowner. Maintaining proper security is possible through various home safety measures and devices. Your home locks are the primary devices that keep your home secure. The vast majority of the time, you do not have to worry much about your home locks at all. However, there are times when you will need to consider whether or not replacing a lock or two around your home will be necessary.

Rekeying VS Replacing Locks

Before you dive into having a complete lock change performed, it is important to know the difference between replacing your locks and simply rekeying them. Rekeying your locks involves a manipulation of the internal mechanisms of the lock itself so that a new key works with the lock and the old key becomes obsolete. The original lock still remains completely intact and on the door. A new key can then be used for the door.

Replacing your locks, on the other hand, means that the original lock is completely removed and replaced with a brand-new lock. This process is similar to rekeying, but takes it one step further with a complete replacement. Depending on your circumstances, replacing a lock entirely will be a better option than just rekeying it.

Changing Your Home Locks

As a homeowner, there are several circumstances where you will have to consider whether or not to change your locks. Below you will find a list of the most common reasons why homeowners choose to change their home locks, as well as information about how to go about receiving a professional home lock change.

Broken or Damaged Locks

The most common reason that will prompt homeowners to request a lock is a broken, damaged, or worn lock. If any of your locks are broken or are not performing as they once did, you will want to get them replaced as soon as possible. Even letting a broken lock sit for one night may put your home security at risk. Contact a 24-hour locksmith in your area to take care of any broken locks right away.

You Just Moved

Moving into a new home is often a time when homeowners will change their locks. This is important since there is no way of knowing how many key copies the previous owner lent out or who may still have access to your new home. In order to eliminate the possibility of any unwanted guests, changing the locks entirely is recommended.

Homeowners may also opt to change their locks upon moving in if they wish to upgrade to electronic locks of some kind or a different deadbolt lock style. An upgraded lock can be a great way to increase your security, but also add your own personal touch to the exterior of your home.

Your Home Has Been Robbed

After any kind of robbery or home invasion, especially if your locks were ‘picked’ or broken in any way, you will want to replace your locks as soon as possible. This might be a good time to consider upgrading your security with electronic or smart locks. Electronic locks are much more difficult to break-in to compared to traditional deadbolts and other home locks. If there has been an increase in criminal activity in your area or your own home has been robbed, it is a good idea to consider investing in electronic locks of some kind.

You Lost Your Keys

A lost key will require a lock change. In order to ensure that your home is secure and that no unauthorized individuals will enter your property, a full lock change is recommended. In some instances, you may be able to rekey your locks rather than change them entirely. If you are unsure or have specific questions pertaining to your locks or current situation, be sure to contact a local locksmith.

Break-Up or Divorce

For divorce and break-up situations where one party is moving out, it is important to have the locks changed. This does not have to be done maliciously. Rather, this should be done as a way to respect the boundaries of all the individuals involved and avoid any misunderstandings in terms of visitation. If you are in a situation where you need the locks changed immediately, know that most locksmiths offer emergency services. Even if you need a lock change in the middle of the night, a 24-hour locksmith will be able to come help.

Ready to Change Your Locks?

If you have decided that changing your home locks will ultimately benefit your safety and security, your next step will be to hire a locksmith in your area. Locksmiths are lock and key experts that perform lock changes, replacements, repairs, and other tasks related to locks, keys, and security. It is important to have an expert oversee and take care of the placement of any new locks around your home. Since home locks are often the first line of defense that many homeowners have against intruders, it is essential that they are placed and installed properly. An ill-fitting lock or improper placement could potentially decrease your security, rather than increase it. Regardless of the reasons you have for changing your home locks, always make sure to work with an experienced locksmith.


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