Top 10 Reasons Homes and Businesses Rekey Their Locks

In this blog post, we’ll be going over our top 10 reasons that homeowners and businesses choose to have their locks rekeyed. There are of course other reasons that aren’t on this list, but these are, in our opinion, the most common reasons that individuals and businesses seek lock rekeying services.

See our other informational articles: Rekeying VS Replacing Locks, What Is Lock Rekeying, and Differences Between Lock Changes & Rekeying.

locksmith-services-longmont-lock-rekeying.jpg

1. When moving into a new property

When purchasing a new home or property, it’s always highly recommended that rekeying the home be one of the first things that the new homeowners do. Rekeying a home isn’t a difficult or lengthy process, nor is it too expensive, but it could potentially save hassle and headaches down the road. When a lock is rekeyed, the old key will no longer function, and instead, a new and different key will work. This is ideal for those who are moving into a new piece of property and want to make sure that the old owners can’t get back inside. 

2. When keys go missing or aren’t returned

It’s common for homeowners and businesses to request a rekeying service if they’ve lent out keys that haven’t been returned. This could be for many different reasons, but a common reason might be a pet sitter who hasn’t returned house keys. Likewise, this could also apply to contractors and employees, if keys have been given out and they have not been returned, a rekeying service is a possibility often considered.

3. When a roommate moves out

If someone is moving out, it might be a good idea to have the residence rekeyed to ensure they can’t get back inside. It’s not rude to have locks rekeyed after someone moves out, even if they left on positive terms. Having a locksmith rekey home locks after a roommate has moved out is often an ideal solution to provide peace of mind, knowing that they wouldn’t be able to get back inside without being invited in. Our mobile locksmiths have helped customers who’ve decided to rekey their locks because their friends and previous roommates wouldn’t stop letting themselves back in their home to watch TV and eat from their fridge.

4. After a breakup or divorce

lock-rekeying-services-north-colorado.jpg

When a bad breakup or divorce occurs, often it’s a smart idea to have locks rekeyed. Even if the breakup is amicable, we recommend a lock rekeying service. Some individuals can be vengeful and vindictive after their feelings are hurt, or if they feel misused or abused. To ensure the highest level of safety and security for one's belongings after a breakup, it’s generally a good idea to have a home rekeyed, just to caution on the safe side of things. Our locksmiths have heard horror stories about bad breakups that have resulted in ex’s stealing things from their homes, like TV’s, electronics, computers, and even in some petty cases, ex’s have stolen mattresses , beds, stoves, fridges, and things they don’t even need as a way to cause pain and suffering. Rekeying locks is highly common after individuals breakup and someone moves out, for whatever the reasons may be.

5. If things start to go missing without signs of forced entry

Sometimes things may start to appear missing from home without a sign of a break-in. While not always the case, one explanation might be that an individual has a working key, and is letting themselves into the property to take items. This is a very rare occurrence, but it has happened to a select few in the past. We recommend that all homeowners who experience missing items regularly, first check their locks and points of entry. If all locks are fully functional, perhaps a rekeying service will stop any potential intruders from getting back inside to take more items. This is of course just one possible explanation as to how intruders could be gaining entry without forcing their way in.

6. If an employee is fired or quits without returning their keys

If an employee is terminated and doesn’t return their working keys, it could leave a potential security lapse as that individual should no longer have access to the premises. When an employee quits or is fired, they must return any working keys they have. Many times businesses will choose to rekey their locks even if their terminated employee has returned keys, just to be on the safe side of things, in-case the employee in question made a key duplicate. Most locksmiths will always recommend a rekeying service after an employee is let go or fired.

top-10-reasons-people-rekey-their-homes-and-businesses-locksmith-services-longmont.jpg

7. As a precautionary security measure every few years

Some homeowners and businesses like to keep it fresh when it comes to their security. While rekeying a lock won’t change the security of it, it can serve as a way to retain control over key copies, especially if many copies have been lent out in the past. Every few years some homeowners find it practical to have their locks rekeyed to be sure that they’re still the only ones who have working copies.

8. To have all locks be on the same keys

Many homeowners and businesses will rekey their existing locks so that they can be on matching keys. For example, a homeowner with three separate doors might have three separate keys to operate each door. With a rekeying service, the homeowner could have all their home locks rekeyed to the same key, meaning that all their door locks would be on the same matching key. This is ideal for those who are interested in reducing the number of keys they have to carry with them at all times. Homeowners who are interested in consolidating their multiple different keys into one singular key that works with all the locks may find that a rekeying service is of interest to them.

9. If you’ve lost track of where keys are and who has spare copies

Often homeowners may hide spare keys on the premises for the event that they find themselves locked out and unable to get back inside. If this is the case, it’s also possible for others to find hidden spare keys too. Frequently, homeowners will require a rekeying service after they’ve become locked out, and realize that their spare key isn’t in its supposed hiding spot. While there are many different reasons that keys might not be in the hiding spot they were left in, sometimes it can be as simple as the homeowner forgetting where they left it. Whatever the reason may be though, oftentimes homeowners will choose to rekey their locks after they can’t find spare keys or if their friends or family have lost spare keys they were lent for safekeeping.

10. After a big job like a home renovation with multiple different companies and contractors who have key copies

The last and final most common time that individuals and businesses choose to rekey their property is after a big job like a renovation. Renovations can be expensive, and it’s not uncommon for homeowners or businesses to leave spare keys with the individual companies that are providing the services. This is highly practical and convenient for the owner, as the workers can let themselves in and out as they please, however, it could potentially leave the owner open to security risks. Often homeowners and businesses will choose to have their property re-keyed after a big job in which multiple companies have had access to the property and locks without supervision. This is just a precaution, but it is still done by many. Most would rather spend the small amount that it costs on a rekeying service rather than constantly have to worry or risk their items going missing.

Summary

There are many different reasons that homeowners and businesses will opt for a rekeying service. In our opinion, the top ten most frequently requested reasons for lock rekeying services are: 

  • Moving into a new property

  • When keys aren’t returned

  • After a roommate moves out

  • After a breakup

  • If things start to go missing

  • If an employee is let go

  • As a precautionary measure

  • To have locks be on the same key

  • When keys go missing

  • After a big job, like a home renovation.

Have you had to have your lock rekeyed before for a reason that wasn’t on our list? If so, we’d love to hear about it below in the comments!

About Us: Locksmith Services Longmont provides 24-hour locksmith services in Northern Colorado. We can assist with services like lockouts, lock rekeying, lock replacements, lock installations, lock repairs, lock removals, and more. We have 24-hour locksmith services in areas of North CO like Denver, Longmont, Boulder, Estes Park, Fort Collins, Loveland, Greeley, and more. See all the locations we provide fast and affordable locksmith services to in Northern Colorado on our Contact page.

LocksmithServicesLongmont-L3.jpg

Rekeying Locks VS Replacing Locks — What's The Difference?

Many homeowners and businesses who are in search of a locksmith to replace their locks aren’t familiar with the correct terminology between rekeying a lock and replacing one. With this article, we hope to do our best to clear up any confusion on the matter. Before we can compare the pros and cons of each, lets first take a look at the definitions behind each term.

What Is Lock Rekeying?

locksmith-services-longmont-lock-rekeying.jpg

Lock rekeying is, in essence, changing the keys that work with a specific lock to work with different keys, but all the while maintaining the same lock. Lock rekeying is often the ideal solution for homeowners and businesses who need to change their locks to work with different keys. While there is a multitude of different reasons one might need to consider having their locks rekeyed, generally it comes down security concerns or usability issues. A homeowner or business might be interested in having their locks rekeyed if their locks still function fine, but a copy of their key has ended up in the hands of people in which they do not trust.

Lock rekeying is typically the “better” option for homeowners or businesses who still have perfectly working hardware, have a working key, and need to have their locks work with a different set of operational keys. Rekeying a lock is cheaper than replacing a lock entirely as the hardware stays the same, in comparison to a lock replacement when the locking hardware is changed with “new locks”.

The process of rekeying a lock is typically straightforward, especially if the locksmith in question is an experienced professional. When a lock is rekeyed, it is “deconstructed”, or taken apart if you will, by professional locksmith tools in order to access the inner workings. Once inside the lock, the locksmith can interact with the pins, or tumblers, and change them to match a different set of operational keys. Many homeowners have their locks rekeyed because they have multiple sets of keys for different doors and want to consolidate all of their door locks into one singular key.

While rekeying a lock might seem like it’s too good to be true, that’s because sometimes it can be. If a lock is no longer working correctly or malfunctioning in the process of locking or unlocking, it might be time to replace the lock entirely. Rekeying a lock will not fix it, rekeying implies that the lock is already functioning correctly and simply needs to be switched over to different keys. Read more on our other blog posts Differences Between a Lock Change and a Rekey.

What Is Lock Replacement?

lock-replacement-service-longmont-co.jpg

Lock replacement is different from lock rekeying because instead of just replacing the internal pins or tumblers inside to work with different keys, the entire lock is replaced. This means that all of the metal is swapped out with new pieces. Many homeowners and businesses will need to replace their locks if the locks in question are beyond repair, or if it’s unable to be rekeyed for whatever extraneous circumstances may exist.

Generally lock rekeying is the more affordable option for those who are on a tight budget, but the trade-off for those with older locks can sometimes be worth it. Many times individuals or businesses will call a professional locksmith service to assist with a lock rekey, only to find that the small increase in price for a replacement is worth the investment, especially if the locksmith is already on site. Professional locksmiths will have a stock of spare locks that can be used for brand new lock replacements. It’s impossible to provide an exact estimate for the lifetime of the average American deadbolt or doorknob lock, but if we had to guess, we would estimate the average American lock has a lifespan of 7 - 15 years.

Many times businesses and homeowners will opt to have their locks changed so their property conforms to the same standard of look, which can certainly provide a nice aesthetic touch to those who are looking. For example, someone with a gold deadbolt and a black doorknob might be interested in changing one or both of their locks to new ones in order to achieve a matching color scheme or style.

Performing a lock changing service is optimal for those who have multiple locks from different manufacturers, or lock brands. For example, if a homeowner wants to have their backdoor and front door be on the same key, but both doors have different brands of locks, it might be impossible to do so without a lock change. To put it in layman’s terms: sometimes a key won’t fit in a lock because the key and lock are different brands. This is because many lock brands use proprietary key-ways. A good and common example is the popular brands Kwikset and Schlage.

Often times customers will be required to change certain locks to match the majority brand of their home locks, in order to achieve one working key for all locks. Please note that rekeying and lock changing is different than lock installation, which is the act of drilling new holes into a door and “installing” new locks.

Looking for Lock Rekeying in Longmont, Colorado?

Pros and Cons

locksmith-longmont-co-lock-rekeying-services.jpg

There are certainly a few different pros and cons when it comes to comparing lock rekeying with lock replacing services, but at the end of the day, it all comes down to personal preference.

  • Cost - Typically rekeying an existing lock will be the more affordable option over replacing a lock. Rekeying keeps the same lock, while replacing is comparable to buying a new lock.

  • Speed - Both services, when performed by a professional locksmith, should be extremely quick and easy. A professional locksmith will be able to rekey or replace a standard home or business mortise lock in 10-15 minutes, sometimes less, from the time they get started. More locks add more time obviously, but an experienced locksmith will be able to accomplish both tasks with speed and alacrity.

  • Improving Security - Rekeying a lock won’t do anything to enhance security, except to lock someone out if they already have the working key. When a lock is replaced, it’s possible to choose a higher security lock to be installed, versus rekeying a lock which retains the same lock hardware and security, but only changes the keys that operate it. Many people are now choosing to install electronic deadbolts over mechanical ones. If opting for an electronic deadbolt, we recommend selecting one that has a keyhole for emergencies in the event of battery failure. Many individuals find themselves locked out of their electronic locks after their batteries have died.

  • Customization - Many homeowners enjoy customizing their home to the full extent of their abilities, and that includes the small things such as how locks look. While they might not seem important to many, chances are the typical person interacts with a doorknob or deadbolt at least once per day. When it comes to functionality and high living standards, investing in the right locks can often make a huge impact.

What’s The Best Choice?

There’s certainly no answer to this question as it all boils down to the circumstances, personal preference and individual opinion. Depending on the circumstances, one might opt to have their locks rekeyed while another would have them replaced. If a lock is functioning properly and new keys are needed to lock someone out or to have multiple locks on the same key, a lock rekeying service is probably the best bet. On the other hand, if a lock is no longer working as it should, there are multiple different brands, or new color is wanted, a lock changing service is probably the ideal option.


LocksmithServicesLongmont-L3.jpg

About Us - Locksmith Services Longmont provides high quality and affordable locksmith services in the greater Longmont, Colorado area of Boulder County. We have a wide service range to cover the Northern Colorado vicinity. Our experienced mobile locksmiths have been background checked, are highly trained, and they all have years of experience handling a wide variety of different situations. If you’re in Longmont, Colorado or areas of Northern Colorado such as Denver, Greeley, Fort Collins, or Boulder, consider giving us a call. All of our mobile locksmiths can arrive typically in 30 minutes or less from the time we receive your call.

Longmont CO Lock Rekeying Services - Same Day Lock Rekeying 24/7

Professional Lock Rekeying in Longmont, CO

new-key-services-longmont-colorado.jpg

Locksmith Services Longmont is proud to offer prompt, professional, and affordable lock rekeying services in Longmont, Colorado. We provide lock rekeying services for individuals and businesses who require new keys to work with existing locks. Rekeying a lock is typically the most ideal solution for those who still have fully functioning locks but require different keys to work with the lock. In such cases, a lock rekeying service is generally the best route to take. When a lock is rekeyed, the older keys will no longer unlock it, and a locksmith technician will provide a new set of functioning keys. Having locks rekeyed is a good way to lock out people who aren’t supposed to have access to the property, such as terminated employees and roommates who’ve moved out for example. While the circumstances will surely vary from situation to situation, whatever the scenario is, Locksmith Services Longmont can help with fast and inexpensive lock rekeying in Longmont, CO.

When a lock is rekeyed, the older keys will no longer work, and only a new set of keys that are provided by the locksmith technician will work. Many opt to have their locks rekeyed versus replacing them entirely as lock rekeying is typically the cheaper solution that accomplishes the desired result of locking someone else out while retaining access themselves. Visit our blog post to learn more about “Differences Between A Lock Change and A Rekey”.

locksmith-services-longmont-home-rekeying.jpg

Because our mobile locksmiths in Longmont, Colorado are always on the move, we can generally provide fast response times of 30 minutes or less for those who require immediate and same day services. For those interested in scheduling a future appointment, our technicians would be happy to help set up an appointment over the phone at (303) 900-0549 or feel free to book online through our booking page. Locksmith Services Longmont is always available to provide 24-hour locksmith services in Longmont, Colorado for those who are interested in exceptional lock rekeying services for home and business locks.

Technicians from Locksmith Services Longmont are highly trained professionals who have years of experience with rekeying existing locks to work with different operational keys. Our locksmiths in Longmont are insured and background checked for the safety and security of our customers. Businesses and homeowners have relied on our expert locksmiths in Longmont, CO for prompt and professional lock rekeying services. We can rekey existing business locks and home locks to work with different keys. Generally, it can be said that a lock rekeying service is much more affordable than a lock replacement service, as rekeying a lock retains the existing lock hardware but alters the working keys, while lock changing services change the hardware out altogether.

Our mobile locksmiths in Longmont can rekey existing locks from top brands, such as deadbolts and doorknobs from brands like Kwikset, Schlage, Baldwin, Emtek, Ilco, Yale, Cal-Royal, Arrow, BHP, Defiant, Brinks, Gatehouse, and much more. If lock rekeying services aren’t enough and enhanced security is the sought after option, consider us for lock changing and lock installation services in Longmont also. For homeowners with existing doors that only have a locking doorknob lock, our locksmiths can install new locks such as deadbolts onto the door, to enhance the security and make it harder for an intruder to gain entry. With our lock changing services in Longmont, our technicians can replace old or faulty locks with new ones, and even upgrade the locks entirely to electronic locks if keypad locks with smart locking capabilities are wanted.

lock-rekeying-colorado-locksmiths.jpg

All of our locksmiths in Longmont CO can provide professional lock rekeying solutions to homeowners and businesses for whatever the reason may be, and our technicians will replace the internal pins, or tumblers, to match different operational keys. Because our locksmiths are experts at what they do, and are highly skilled, with years of experience, they can rekey locks very quickly and affordably. Many of our customers find us through a quick Google search when they look for a “Locksmith near me.

Individuals and businesses in Colorado are always encouraged to check the validity and ratings of the locksmith service that they select. Before selecting a locksmith company for lock rekeying services, individuals can read up on past testimonials, check the Better Business Bureau, and visit the Colorado Secretary of State website to learn more about the activity of the business.

Prompt, Professional, & Affordable Lock Rekeying in Longmont, CO

Homeowners in Longmont can always take advantage of our professional lock rekeying services thanks to our technicians who work on-call 24-hours to provide quick rekeying response times. Our technicians understand the importance of emergency rekeying services in Longmont after situations such as employee terminations and domestic disputes or bad breakups. Whatever the situation might be, our technicians can arrive day or night, typically in 30 minutes or less if same-day lock rekeying services are requested.

In addition to rekeying locks in Longmont, CO and the many surrounding areas throughout northern Colorado, our technicians also provide a wide array of different locksmith solutions for those in need. Our locksmiths in Longmont can also help with lock replacements, lockout services, lock changes, lock repairs, lock installations, and much more. Locksmiths from our company have years of experience and the correct tools required to open locked vehicles when the keys are locked inside with no damage. We can also unlock homes and businesses for those who are locked out due to missing keys or because the keys are locked inside.

 
LocksmithServicesLongmont-s.jpg
 

All of our technicians can assist with lockout services for homes, vehicles, and businesses in Longmont, Colorado. Because locksmiths from Locksmith Services Longmont are fully mobile, they can also provide locksmith services to a wide range of different communities throughout northern Colorado. We can also assist with locksmith services in Denver, Boulder, Loveland, Greeley, Estes Park, Lafayette, Fort Lupton, Berthoud, Broomfield, Fort Collins, and much more.

If you are an individual or business in Longmont, Colorado and you require fast and inexpensive lock rekeying services, consider Locksmith Services Longmont.

 

Differences Between A Lock Change And A Rekey

Whether it's moving into a new place, losing a key, or going through a change in ownership— getting a lock rekeyed can be a good idea for those worried about who has access to their property. In these instances our first instinct is to change the locks completely, but there are often cheaper and more practical options out there. In situations like these, a good first step is to call a locksmith in order to discuss possible options for the specific needs of your security. Locksmith Services Longmont provides mobile locksmith services for all local residents of North Colorado. Our technicians have experience handling all types of residential and commercial lock and key situations, whether it's changing a lock, rekeying, or even installing a new lock.

 What is a Lock Change? 

Changing a lock is exactly how it sounds. When a lock is changed, it means taking out the old or broken lock and replacing it with a new and separate piece of lock hardware. Lock changes are often needed for various reasons including:

Different Styled Locks

Replacing Broken Locks

Higher Security Locks

Upgrading to Electronic Locks

Changing Locks to Match Other Brands

Replacing Old Locks

There are few similarities between changing a lock and rekeying one, but the biggest is that a new key will be utilized in both situations. When a new lock is installed or replaced, the lock hardware itself will be different as the old lock will no longer be there. Having a lock replaced is a painless process, but it can be more expensive than simply changing tumblers to match a new key for an existing lock.

There are many factors for deciding on which kind of lock to purchase for your home such as price, brand, security level, and lock style. Locksmith Services Longmont is capable of providing professional lock work since all of our technicians have the proper tools required to accurately and correctly change or rekey residential and commercial locks. 

Much like residential locks, commercial locks can also be easily and affordably replaced for any business or office location. Locksmith Services Longmont offers skilled and informed technicians to come to the location of your business in order to remove old locks and replace them with newer locks more capable of fitting today's increased security needs. Our technicians are available to help residents of North Colorado when it comes to installing new locks, whether it's for increased security, an updated look, or any other reason. 

 
Lock-Rekeying-Services.jpeg
 

What is Rekeying?

Rekeying a lock is different than changing it completely because rekeying a lock will not replace the current lock, instead it only changes the key that operates it. Rekeying can be done by any of our highly trained locksmith technicians. Rekeying is done when a lock is removed from the door so the tumblers or pins can be changed to match a new key. Once everything is changed to the new key, the lock is installed back into the door. Locksmiths from Locksmith Services Longmont are capable of coming to residential and commercial business sites in Northern Colorado to perform quick and affordable lock rekeying services. Our locksmiths are capable of making new locks work with other pre-existing locks and/or rekeying everything to something new and different entirely.

Read more about What is Lock Rekeying?

When rekeying a lock, it is best to already have the key that currently operates the lock on hand, however, don't panic if all working keys are lost. When a lock needs to be rekeyed but all keys are missing, calling a locksmith is a good idea. A locksmith will be able to arrive on site with extra keys and the ability to pick open the lock so that it may be rekeyed to new keys. In addition to providing you with a new set of keys, having your home or business rekeyed will also provide you with the peace of mind that no one else has access to your property; as any other keys will no longer work in the lock. Although rekeying a lock can sometimes be more cost effective, having a lock replaced can sometimes be more beneficial depending on the security situation of the home or business.

Pros of rekeying a business or home:

  • When handled professionally it can be a quick and easy process.

  • It can at times be more affordable than replacing the lock.

  • Deters old tenants from entering your property

  • If your keys are lost, you can save yourself from purchasing new locks. 

  • Prevent former employees from accessing your business.

Differences Between Lock Changes and Rekeying Locks

There are many differences between changing the locks on a home or business versus having it rekeyed. The main difference between the two is that when you change a lock, you are changing your lock completely versus only changing the internal mechanisms of the lock. Changing a lock is great in situations where a lock is already damaged or you are worried about the integrity of your residential or commercial locks. When a lock is changed it can often be replaced with a newer and more secure lock style, this can offer increased protection against lock picking, key bumping, and forced entry attacks.

While rekeying can often be a most cost effective and quicker solution to keeping old tenants out, former employees, and ex partners out, it won't fix a lock that is already damaged or malfunctioning.  When rekeying a lock, the lock is uninstalled temporarily and taken apart to remove the old pins that are inside of the lock and in turn replaced with new pins specific to a new key, rendering the previous key unusable.

After the pins have been matched with the new key, the lock is then reinstalled and can no longer be unlocked using the old key. When rekeying, it is possible to get all the locks in your home or business rekeyed to the same key, as well as the option of having separate keys for separate individual locks.

Locksmith Services Longmont offers professional and dedicated lock and key technicians who are available to come to your home or business 24/7 for any locksmithing needs. Our lock technicians are capable of rekeying locks, changing locks, replacing old locks, and installing new locks completely. Local residents of North Colorado can contact one of our friendly technicians for assistance or information on rekeying and lock changing for their residential or commercial properties. Our locksmiths have experience working on all name brands such as: Schlage, Kwikset, Baldwin, Emtek, Defiant, Yale, Arrow, and more!

Call us anytime, 24/7, at (303) 900-0549 for locksmith assistance in Longmont, Denver, Boulder, Greeley, Westminster, Lafayette, Erie, and more.

What Is Lock Rekeying?

Lock Rekeying Explained

Lock rekeying is a term that describes the process of having a lock’s internal parts altered in order to function with a different key. In most cases, but not all, rekeying an existing lock might be more affordable than replacing a fully operational lock. A lock rekeying service is perfect for those individuals only needing their keys changed. Homeowners and businesses frequently call us to rekey their locks for some of the following reasons: misplaced keys, a move or change in ownership, employee termination, breakups, or keys not returned by dog walkers or house sitters.

Professional locksmiths are able to rekey locks by using the tools found within rekeying kits. Purchasing all the tools required to rekey a lock, as well as gaining the necessary skills to do so, would be much more costly and time consuming than hiring an expert lock and key company in the first place. Professional locksmith companies offer quick and inexpensive lock rekeying services to customers at their location, and they also include guarantees of work.

How Residential & Business Locks Work

In the United States, most home and business locks use pins, or tumblers; they are called pin tumbler locks. One of the most important parts of a lock is the “plug”, which is the cylinder like circle that the key is inserted into. When the plug is turned, the lock is unlocked or locked via the small metal piece called a tailpiece located on the back of the lock plug. When a correct key is inserted, the plug will spin freely to lock or unlock, however, when an incorrect key is inserted, the lock will not operate at all. The inside of the lock contains a housing area for the driver pins; driver pins are pushed down into the plug from the above area. Their function is to prevent the lock from freely spinning. These driver pins are spring loaded, meaning if no key is inserted into the lock, the driver pins will be partially inserted into the plug.

Image Credit: Datagram, CC-BY-3.0, Optimized For Web

Image Credit: Datagram, CC-BY-3.0, Optimized For Web

The shear line refers to the top part of the plug where the tiny gap sits between the plug and the rest of the lock. When a key is inserted into a keyway, the pins will line up on the cuts of the key. If a correct key is inserted, the shear line will not be blocked and the plug will be able to rotate freely. Take a look at some of the example pictures below to learn more.

Did you know that the basic principles behind pin tumbler locks date back to 2000 BC in Egypt?

Image Credit: GWirken, CC-BY-SA-3.0, Optimized For Web

Image Credit: GWirken, CC-BY-SA-3.0, Optimized For Web

No Keys

When there are no keys interested in the lock, the driver pins (blue pins) will be pushed all the way down into the plug, preventing the lock from operating. The red pins are cut to height and intended to match the cuts of the correct key. When no key is inserted, they hang in the keyway.

Image Credit: Pbroks13, CC-BY-3.0, Optimized For Web

Image Credit: Pbroks13, CC-BY-3.0, Optimized For Web

Wrong Keys

When the wrong key is inserted into the lock, the shear line will still be blocked because the pins won’t correspond to the correct depths cut into the key. This is the reason wrong keys won’t open locks; correct operation has everything to do with a flush shear line that allows smooth plug rotation.

Image Credit: Pbroks13, CC-BY-3.0, Optimized For Web

Image Credit: Pbroks13, CC-BY-3.0, Optimized For Web

Correct Keys

When the correct key is inserted in a lock, the plug will spin freely because the shear line won’t be blocked. Because the shear line is so small, it’s easy to understand how it could become gunked up and sticky to operate over time. If this becomes the case, a lubricant like Dry Lock Lube might be a good idea.

Image Credit: Pbroks13, CC-BY-3.0, Optimized For Web

Image Credit: Pbroks13, CC-BY-3.0, Optimized For Web

Lock Rekeying

Rekeying a lock is the process of taking the lower pins (red pins) and replacing them with different ones that match a different key. This process doesn’t ruin a lock’s functionality and can be most cost effective to those individuals only looking for new keys for their still fully functional locks. Rekeying a lock is both quick and affordable.

Lock Rekeying Services In Northern Colorado

Locksmith Services Longmont is a mobile locksmith company that provides services to the Northern Colorado area. Our technicians are on call 24/7 to assist with all types of lock rekeying solutions. Appointments can be made online through our booking page or directly through our dispatching number at (303) 900-0549. Our technicians can rekey deadbolts, doorknobs, levers, commercial locks, and much more. We regularly work with individuals and businesses that require new keys for their locks. We offer both same day and future date services that are honest, quick, and affordable. Ask us how we can help with lock rekeying in Northern Colorado. We service areas such as: Longmont, Denver, Boulder, Estes Park, Greeley, Fort Collins, Loveland, Brighton, and more.