The same goes for home security. You might know when it’s time to rekey your house locks, but do you know how the process works? Let’s go over the steps involved in this service and why it’s often best to turn to a professional locksmith.

Step #1: Measure and Prepare

First, make sure you’ve measured the door and space you’ll be replacing, and that you have the proper tools and equipment (as well as the right lock mode). Some examples of items/tools you’ll need include:

• New lock
• Power drill with hole saws
• Standard screwdrivers
• Tape measure
• Custom plate or door reinforcer, if needed

If you choose a new lock that is similar to your old one, the process will usually be easier and you might not even have to replace certain components like the latch or setback. 

Step #2: Make Sure the Key Matches

It’s important to ensure the new lock matches your other locks, if you’re not replacing them all. You can do this by selecting a lock that is compatible with your existing key, or order keys from the lock manufacturer that matches your existing keys. You can also have a professional locksmith take care of it, whether key duplication is needed or not.

Step #4: Remove Old Lock

Starting with the door knob and latch, replace the old hardware by removing the screws from the front, back and side of the door. There are usually two screws on the latch plate and two each on the front and back knobs. You may also have to cut or play around with hardware components to ensure they’re removed properly. The deadbolt should be one of the last pieces you remove. 

Step #4: Install New Lock

In the same order you removed your old lock, install your new one. You might be able to keep the existing latch if you have the same model; otherwise you’ll replace everything. The knob spindle should align with the bolt in the door for an easy install and you simply reinstall all of the screws you removed earlier. Open and close the door several times to ensure everything is placed properly and the door works normally. 

Whether you need your locks rekeyed or another residential locksmith service, A-1 Locksmith is here for you. Contact us or visit any of our DFW-area locations today!

Of course, in some cases, an individual may take the correct steps, and follow the DIY guidelines exactly, causing them to re-key the locks without flaw. Far too often, however, homeowners rely on DIY lock re-keying kits, only to discover a mistake later on.

Don’t attempt to re-key your locks at home without understanding the ramifications of your actions. Instead, consider the following perils you may encounter, which you can certainly avoid by reaching out to one of our skilled locksmith professionals at A-1 Locksmith.

Re-Keying When a Replacement is Necessary

What is one of the most common results that arises when individuals attempt to use DIY kits to re-key their own locks? After following all of the instructions included in a manual, and taking all necessary precautions, many homeowners find that they have only exacerbated the problem that already existed. And this doesn’t occur because the individual made a mistake during the process; instead, the problem remains because the locks should have been replaced, not re-keyed.

In many cases, homeowners won’t realize that a lock is far too worn to be eligible for re-keying, and will waste them time attempting anyway. With the help of a professional locksmith, you can avoid this wasted time; a locksmith can examine the lock, and help you understand whether re-keying or replacement is the right option for you.

Leaving the Locks Unusable

Of course, the ultimate goal of the re-keying process is to be left with a functioning lock that only opens using a new set of keys. Far too often, however, homeowners will make a mistake while attempting to re-key their locks, leaving it entirely unusable and requiring an entire replacement.

This situation can ultimately be remedied by contacting a professional locksmith beforehand. To be sure, while DIY re-keying kits may promise to provide you with all of the information necessary to re-key the locks in your home, it is still possible that you may a mistake, albeit a small one, during the procedure. Unfortunately, even a small mistake can leave the locks unusable.

Avoiding the Perils of DIY Re-Keying

What is the best way to avoid any of these pitfalls of re-keying your locks at home? The answer is simple: reach out to a professional locksmith at A-1 Locksmith. Our professionals have years of experience assisting clients and are prepared to help you immediately.