WHEN TO REPLACE LOCKS

At first it seems like a “no brainer” – you replace your locks if you need to! But then it hits you. Just when do you need to? Here at Racine Locksmith we are often asked whether a lock replacement is needed or if a simple rekey will do. Our answer is always the same and always accurate; that depends on your lock and on your needs.

There are so many factors involved in deciding whether to change your locks out, or make do with the ones have, and just rekey them. Hopefully this post will help clarify these two very different locksmith services so that you will know which is best for you, if ever needed!

What lock replacement is

Lock replacement is just that; the old lock is removed and an entirely different one is put in its place. This is sometimes called a change out and is NOT a rekey service which is totally different. For the most part rekeys are less expensive and can be done in place of lock replacement for many tasks. When a lock is rekeyed, the inside pins and springs are changed but the lock itself is left in place. When a lock is replaced, the entire piece is removed and replaced with a different lock altogether. In both rekeys and replacements, you will need new keys as the older original ones will no longer work.

If you need help deciding which service is best for your needs, the best advice is to call a local Racine, WI locksmith. The full service shops offer rekeys and replacements for home, auto and business needs and they can also help you decide which service is best for you at the moment. 

Automotive lock replacement

Most lock replacement for cars is almost always the result of damage. The old locks may have been broken into by a car thief and whether they actually stole the car or just damaged the locks in the process, the end result is the same; you need new locks! These locks can include door, ignition switch, trunk, glove compartment and even console locks.

Sometimes, auto locks are upgraded as in the case of adding a keyless entry system. Many autos are bought and resold in the local market and sometimes the new owners want locks replaced because of previous owner damage or new owner upgrades. Police and estate auctions also provide owners with a change to replace or upgrade their auto locks for added security and performance.

Lock replacement at home

Much like car lock replacement, home locks need changing if they are damaged by crime, weather, age, wear or accident. Can you imagine coming home from a nice dinner out and seeing your front door lock in shambles from an attempted break-in? You need your door lock and you need it NOW! Otherwise, how can you sleep tonight, knowing that your home is virtually unprotected? How can you go to your job in the morning with no adequate lock on your door? You need lock replacement on the double!

Here’s another scenario. Let’s say one of your kids has a key to the home and loses it at school. You have the option of giving him another copy but what if someone finds his key and uses it to get inside your home? You could rekey the locks and that would solve the problem OR you could take advantage of the opportunity to upgrade your locks to stronger, better ones. Some of these amazing locks include bump proof locks and high security hardware. 

Commercial lock replacement

Businesses change locks regularly and with good reason. They may change hands when sold and the new owners may want a fresh start with brand new locks. Better key control is another reason to replace your locks and even though you can achieve this with rekeying, you can also upgrade to higher quality, stronger locks at the same time. Business owners have a lot invested in their companies. From ice cream shops to hospitals, local companies are the lifeblood of the economy and keeping staff, customers, and inventory safe is vital to not only surviving but also thriving in today’s tough economic climate. Business locks can included on front and back doors, as well as on doors to offices, storerooms, restrooms, closets, server rooms, break rooms and more. Add to that locks on desks, file cabinets, lock boxes, mailboxes, safes and vaults and you can see why having so many locking devices and striving for better security can lead to periodic lock replacement.

There are thousands of local businesses in the Racine, WI metro area and each one is unique and has different security needs and wants. These firms can range from home-based businesses and mom and pop stores, to national chains and international firms. Our town has car dealers, laundromats, fine dining, home builders, book stores, fast food, storage facilities, home improvement, furniture stores, apartment rentals, grocery outlets, pharmacies, cafes, roofers, plumbers, chiropractors, dentists, travel agents, private schools and thousands more. Whether owned individually or through corporations, these companies must all provide adequate security and protection for workers, vendors and customers alike and usually this is done by making use of the best lock hardware and technology that the business can afford.

Is lock replacement for you?

Only you can answer that! There are many things to consider. Our advice is to read this post again, and then make a call to a local Racine, WI locksmith shop to discuss your many options. Most full service lock and key firms offer automotive, residential, commercial and emergency services that include both rekey service and lock replacement. Get some ideas and some free price quotes. If your situation is urgent, be sure to take advantage of fast response, 24-hour emergency service so that you and your love ones and close associates are always protected. Weigh the pros, cons and options and see if lock replacement is right for you at this time.