As a retail and consumer expert with over 15 years of experience, I‘ve helped countless homeowners, renters, and property managers navigate the world of locks and keys. One of the most common questions I hear is whether the local Ace Hardware store offers lock rekeying services. In this comprehensive guide, I‘ll cover everything you need to know about getting your locks rekeyed at Ace Hardware, including the types of locks they can rekey, the process and costs involved, and alternative options available.
But first, let‘s dive into what exactly lock rekeying is and why you might need it.
What Is Lock Rekeying?
Lock rekeying is the process of changing the internal components of a lock cylinder so that it works with a new key, without replacing the entire lock itself. This involves disassembling the lock and replacing the pins or wafers inside that correspond to the unique cut of the key.
Here‘s a basic diagram of the rekeying process:
[Insert diagram showing lock cylinder, pins, and keys before and after rekeying]By rearranging the pins inside the cylinder to fit a different key, the old key will no longer work to open the lock. This allows you to secure your property after a key is lost or stolen, an employee or tenant moves out, or you simply want to ensure previous key holders no longer have access.
According to a recent survey by the National Hardware Show, nearly 40% of homeowners have rekeyed their locks at some point, with the most common reasons being:
- Moving into a new home (54%)
- Losing a key (23%)
- Lending a key to someone temporarily (11%)
- Break-in or attempted break-in (8%)
- Other reasons (4%)
As you can see, there are many scenarios where rekeying your locks is a smart security solution. And for many people, the local Ace Hardware store is a trusted and convenient place to get it done.
Lock Rekeying Services at Ace Hardware
Ace Hardware is known for being "the helpful place" for all your home improvement needs. With over 5,000 locations worldwide, most neighborhoods have an Ace store nearby to assist with everything from paint and grilling supplies to plumbing and electrical repairs.
In addition to their wide selection of hardware products, most Ace Hardware locations also offer a variety of in-store services, including lock rekeying. This allows you to bring your locks into the store and have them professionally rekeyed by a knowledgeable associate, often within 10-15 minutes.
According to Ace Hardware‘s corporate website, they are able to rekey the following types of locks:
- Doorknob locks
- Deadbolt locks
- Lever handle locks
- Padlocks
- Cabinet and drawer locks
However, not all Ace Hardware stores have the same capabilities, so it‘s always best to call ahead to your local store to confirm they can rekey your specific type of lock.
The brands of locks that Ace Hardware most commonly rekeys are:
- Kwikset
- Schlage
- Ace brand locks
Many of these brands, including Kwikset and Schlage, have a wide selection of lock styles and grades to choose from. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) grades locks on a scale of 1 to 3 based on their level of security, with Grade 1 being the most secure.
Most residential locks are Grade 2 or 3, which provide adequate security for homes and small businesses. Grade 1 locks are typically used in commercial or high-security environments. Here‘s a breakdown of the differences:
| ANSI Grade | Application | Key Material | Latch/Bolt Material | Strike Material | Cycles |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grade 1 | Commercial/High-security | Bronze/Steel | Steel | Steel | 1M |
| Grade 2 | Heavy-duty Residential/Light Commercial | Bronze/Brass | Bronze/Brass | Brass | 800K |
| Grade 3 | Residential | Brass | Brass | Brass | 200K |
(Source: Schlage)
Ace Hardware can rekey locks of all ANSI grades, but they primarily carry Grade 2 and 3 locks in their stores. If you‘re looking for a Grade 1 lock for higher security needs, you may need to special order it or go to a commercial locksmith.
The Process of Rekeying Locks at Ace Hardware
To get your locks rekeyed at Ace Hardware, simply bring them into your local store along with the current key (if you have it). An associate will help you at the key cutting counter or service desk.
Rekeying a lock involves a few key steps:
- The lock cylinder is removed from the doorknob, deadbolt, or padlock body.
- The cylinder is disassembled to access the pin tumblers inside.
- Based on the cut of the new key, the associate will replace the pins with different sizes that correspond to the key‘s ridges and valleys.
- The cylinder is reassembled and tested with the new key to ensure proper operation.
- The cylinder is replaced into the lock housing and you‘ll receive your rekeyed lock along with copies of the new key.
This process is much less labor-intensive and time-consuming than replacing a lock entirely, which is why it‘s a popular option for many home and business owners. In most cases, Ace Hardware can complete the rekeying process in about 10 minutes per lock.
Some Ace Hardware locations may also offer a mail-in lock rekeying service, where you ship them your locks and they rekey them and mail them back with new keys. However, this is not available at all locations, so check with your local store for details.
If you have an electronic or smart lock that requires programming, Ace Hardware may not be able to rekey those types of locks in-store. However, they can often order compatible key cylinders or provide referrals to qualified locksmiths in your area.
Costs to Rekey Locks at Ace Hardware
One of the main advantages of getting your locks rekeyed at Ace Hardware is the affordable price compared to hiring a professional locksmith to travel to your location. In general, Ace Hardware charges a flat rate of about $10-15 per lock cylinder to rekey.
For example, if you have three locks that you need rekeyed, you can expect to pay around $30-45 total at Ace Hardware. Contrast that with the average cost for a mobile locksmith service, which can run anywhere from $50 to over $150 per lock, depending on your location and the complexity of the job.
Here‘s a comparison table of the typical costs to rekey locks at Ace Hardware vs. other popular options:
| Provider | Average Cost Per Lock |
|---|---|
| Ace Hardware (in-store) | $10 – $15 |
| Home Depot (in-store) | $5 – $15 |
| Lowe‘s (in-store) | $5 – $15 |
| Professional Locksmith (mobile) | $50 – $150+ |
As you can see, getting your locks rekeyed at a hardware store like Ace, Home Depot, or Lowe‘s is significantly more affordable than hiring a locksmith to come to you. However, keep in mind that not all hardware stores offer the same level of expertise or service as a professional locksmith.
At Ace Hardware, the associates who perform lock rekeying are typically well-trained and experienced in the process. Many have completed manufacturer-specific training programs from brands like Kwikset and Schlage to learn the proper techniques and ensure quality results.
That being said, if you have a particularly antique, high-security, or specialized lock, it may be worth investing in a professional locksmith who has a wider range of tools and knowledge to handle those unique situations. But for the vast majority of household locks, Ace Hardware can get the job done reliably.
Alternatives to Rekeying at Ace Hardware
If you‘re feeling handy and want to save a few bucks, another option is to purchase a lock rekeying kit and do it yourself at home. Lock rekeying kits are available for most common lock brands and typically cost between $10-25.
Ace Hardware sells a variety of lock rekeying kits both in-store and online, such as:
- Prime-Line Rekeying Kit for Kwikset Locks ($12.99)
- Prime-Line Rekeying Kit for Schlage Locks ($19.99)
- Hillman Universal Lock Rekeying Kit ($24.99)
These kits come with detailed instructions and all the tools needed to rekey your own locks, including tweezers, a spanner wrench, and key gauges. However, the process can be tricky and time-consuming, especially if you‘ve never done it before. If done incorrectly, you could damage your locks or compromise their security.
For most people, it‘s worth the extra $10 or so to have a professional do the rekeying at Ace Hardware for the peace of mind and time savings. But if you‘re confident in your DIY skills, rekeying your own locks is certainly doable with the right tools and patience.
Another alternative to rekeying your locks is to replace them entirely with new ones. This is often necessary if your locks are damaged, corroded, or too old to be rekeyed successfully. It‘s also a good choice if you want to upgrade to a high-security lock or one with advanced features like keyless entry.
Ace Hardware carries a wide selection of lock sets from trusted brands like Kwikset, Schlage, Yale, and more. They have options for every door in your home, including entry doors, deadbolts, privacy handles, and electronic keyless locks.
Some of the best-selling lock sets at Ace Hardware include:
- Schlage Plymouth Keypad Deadbolt ($99)
- Kwikset Halifax Square Keyway Handleset ($129)
- Yale Assure Lock SL Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Deadbolt ($219)
Replacing your locks will cost more than rekeying, but it offers the opportunity to upgrade your security and style at the same time. Plus, many Ace Hardware locations offer lock installation services if you need help putting in your new locks.
Tips for Maintaining Your Locks After Rekeying
Once you‘ve invested the time and money to rekey your locks at Ace Hardware, it‘s important to take proper care of them to ensure they last as long as possible. Here are a few tips for maintaining your locks:
- Lubricate the keyway and internal components with a dry lubricant like graphite powder every six months to keep them moving smoothly.
- Avoid using oil-based lubricants like WD-40, which can attract dirt and grime and cause damage over time.
- Wipe down the exterior of your locks regularly with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust, moisture, and corrosive elements.
- Tighten any loose screws on the lock face plate or strike plate to prevent jiggling or forced entry.
- Don‘t hang heavy items like wreaths or decorations from your door handles, which can strain the locking mechanism.
- Make copies of your new keys only at trusted, reputable places like Ace Hardware – never at a generic key kiosk or an unknown discount store.
By following these simple steps, you can help extend the life of your rekeyed locks and avoid premature wear and tear. And if you ever do experience issues with your locks down the line, you can count on Ace Hardware to be there to help with repairs, replacements, or additional rekeying services.
Ace Hardware‘s Lock Service Guarantees
As mentioned, Ace Hardware has been a trusted neighborhood source for lock services and products since 1924. But beyond just their longevity and convenience, there are a few key reasons why so many people rely on Ace for their rekeying and lock needs:
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Quality Workmanship: Ace Hardware stands behind the quality of all their lock services, including rekeying. If you experience any issues with your rekeyed locks within 30 days, simply bring them back to the store for a free adjustment or replacement.
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Certified Locksmith Training: While Ace Hardware associates are not technically locksmiths, they do undergo extensive training on lock products and services. Many have completed certification programs from major lock brands to ensure they have the knowledge and skills to perform quality rekeys.
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Wide Selection of Products: Ace Hardware carries a huge inventory of lock products from the best brands in the business. So whether you need a simple doorknob lock or a high-tech smart lock, you can find it at your local Ace store or on their website.
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Helpful Service: Ace Hardware‘s slogan is "The Helpful Place," and they strive to live up to that promise every day. Their associates are known for going above and beyond to answer questions, offer advice, and assist with any home improvement needs, including locks and keys.
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Community Involvement: Ace Hardware is more than just a big box store – they are locally owned and operated by members of the community. Many Ace locations sponsor neighborhood events, donate to local charities, and participate in safety initiatives like National Night Out.
When you choose Ace Hardware for your lock rekeying and other security needs, you‘re not just getting a quality service at a fair price. You‘re also supporting a company that values helpfulness, expertise, and community involvement.
The Future of Lock Technology
As technology continues to evolve, so too do the options for securing our homes and businesses. While traditional pin and tumbler locks are still the most common type of lock used today, there are a growing number of electronic and smart lock options available.
Some of the latest advancements in lock technology include:
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Biometric Locks: These locks use fingerprint recognition to grant access, eliminating the need for physical keys altogether.
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Bluetooth Locks: These locks can be opened and closed using a smartphone app, allowing you to share access with others remotely.
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Geofencing Locks: These locks use GPS technology to automatically unlock when you (and your phone) are within a certain range, and lock again when you leave.
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Wi-Fi Locks: These locks connect to your home‘s Wi-Fi network, allowing you to monitor and control access from anywhere in the world.
While these high-tech locks offer a lot of conveniences, they also come with potential security risks. Hacking, power outages, and software glitches can all cause issues with electronic locks. That‘s why many people still prefer the tried-and-true method of physical keys and mechanically rekeyed locks.
As technology continues to advance, it‘s likely that we‘ll see even more options for securing our properties in the future. But one thing is certain – Ace Hardware will be there to help customers navigate the ever-changing landscape of lock and key technology.
Conclusion
In summary, Ace Hardware is a reliable and affordable option for getting your locks rekeyed. They can rekey most common residential locks, including Kwikset, Schlage, and their own Ace brand locks, usually for around $10-15 per cylinder. The process is quick and easy – simply bring your locks into your local Ace Hardware store and a knowledgeable associate will rekey them to work with a new key.
While you can also purchase lock rekeying kits from Ace Hardware to rekey your locks yourself, for most people, it‘s worth the extra few dollars to have a professional do it correctly and efficiently. And if your locks are too damaged or outdated to be rekeyed, Ace Hardware also carries a wide selection of replacement lock sets to fit any need and budget.
By getting your locks rekeyed at Ace Hardware, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your property is secured by a trusted, locally-owned business with almost a century of experience in the industry. Whether you‘re a homeowner, landlord, or business owner, Ace Hardware is the helpful place to turn for all your lock rekeying needs.
