Are you looking to enhance your home security by rekeying your locks? Home Depot, the largest home improvement retailer in the United States, offers a convenient and affordable lock rekeying service. In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll cover everything you need to know about getting your locks rekeyed at Home Depot, including the types of locks they work with, the process, and the costs involved.
Why Rekey Your Locks?
Before we dive into the specifics of Home Depot‘s lock rekeying service, let‘s discuss why you might want to rekey your locks in the first place. Rekeying involves changing the internal mechanism of a lock so that it works with a new key, while still keeping the same external hardware. This is a great option if you‘ve recently moved into a new home, lost your keys, or want to ensure that previous tenants or contractors no longer have access to your property.
According to the National Crime Prevention Council, "rekeying your locks is an easy and inexpensive way to improve your home security. It ensures that only you and those you trust have access to your home." (1)
Types of Locks Home Depot Rekeys
Home Depot can rekey a wide variety of locks, including:
- Doorknobs
- Deadbolts
- Single cylinder locks
- Double cylinder locks
They work with most major lock brands, such as Schlage, Kwikset, and Yale. However, it‘s important to note that not all Home Depot locations offer lock rekeying services. It‘s best to contact your local store to confirm that they have a qualified locksmith on staff who can perform the service.
The Home Depot Lock Rekeying Process
To get your locks rekeyed at Home Depot, follow these simple steps:
- Bring your locks and keys to your local Home Depot store that offers lock rekeying services.
- Consult with the locksmith on staff to discuss your specific needs and ensure that your locks can be rekeyed.
- The locksmith will disassemble your lock, replace the pins or tumblers to work with a new key, and then reassemble the lock.
- Test the newly rekeyed lock with the new key to ensure it works properly.
The process typically takes about 10-15 minutes per lock, depending on the complexity of the lock and the skill of the locksmith.
How Much Does Lock Rekeying Cost at Home Depot?
The cost of lock rekeying at Home Depot varies depending on the type of lock and the complexity of the job. On average, you can expect to pay between $5 and $15 per lock for the rekeying service. This is in addition to the cost of any new lock hardware you may need to purchase.
For example, if you need to rekey three doorknobs and one deadbolt, and the locks cost $20 each, your total cost would be:
- Lock hardware: 4 x $20 = $80
- Rekeying service: 4 x $10 (average) = $40
- Total cost: $80 + $40 = $120
It‘s important to note that this is just an example, and actual costs may vary depending on your specific situation.
Alternatives to Home Depot for Lock Rekeying
While Home Depot is a convenient and affordable option for lock rekeying, it‘s not the only one. Other alternatives include:
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Lowe‘s: Another major home improvement retailer, Lowe‘s offers lock rekeying services at many of its locations. Prices and services are similar to those at Home Depot.
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Ace Hardware: Many Ace Hardware stores have qualified locksmiths on staff who can rekey your locks. They typically charge around $10 per lock, similar to Home Depot.
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Local locksmiths: Independent locksmiths in your area may offer more personalized service and a wider range of lock options. However, they may also charge more than the big box retailers. Expect to pay around $20-$30 per lock for rekeying services from a local locksmith.
When choosing between these options, consider factors such as price, convenience, and the expertise of the locksmith. Always make sure to go with a licensed, insured, and reputable provider that offers secure and effective lock rekeying services.
DIY Lock Rekeying Kits
If you‘re feeling handy and want to save some money, you might consider rekeying your locks yourself using a DIY kit. Home Depot sells a variety of lock rekeying kits from popular brands like Kwikset and Schlage. These kits include everything you need to rekey your locks, including new pins, keys, and step-by-step instructions.
While DIY lock rekeying can be a cost-effective option, it‘s important to carefully follow the instructions and ensure that you have the proper tools and skills to complete the job safely and effectively. If you‘re unsure about your ability to rekey your locks, it‘s best to leave it to the professionals.
Rekeying vs. Replacing Locks
When it comes to updating your home security, you have two main options: rekeying your existing locks or replacing them entirely. Rekeying is generally the more affordable and convenient option, as it allows you to keep your existing hardware while still ensuring that old keys will no longer work. This is ideal for situations where you‘ve recently moved into a new home or lost your keys.
However, there are some situations where replacing your locks entirely may be the better choice. For example, if your locks are old, damaged, or outdated, replacing them with newer, more secure models can provide an extra level of protection. Additionally, if you want to upgrade to smart locks or change the style of your lock hardware, replacing them is the way to go.
Tips for Choosing and Maintaining Your Locks
Whether you choose to rekey or replace your locks, it‘s important to choose high-quality hardware from reputable brands. Look for locks that have been tested and certified by organizations like the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) or the Builder‘s Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA).
Once you have your new locks installed, be sure to maintain them properly to ensure they continue to function effectively. This includes regularly lubricating the moving parts, cleaning the keyway, and avoiding using excessive force when locking and unlocking. By taking good care of your locks, you can extend their lifespan and ensure they provide reliable security for years to come.
FAQs About Home Depot Lock Rekeying
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Q: Can Home Depot rekey car locks?
A: No, Home Depot does not rekey car locks, as they require specialized tools and expertise. For car lock rekeying, contact a qualified automotive locksmith. -
Q: How long does lock rekeying take at Home Depot?
A: The process typically takes about 10-15 minutes per lock, depending on the complexity of the lock and the skill of the locksmith. -
Q: Do I need to bring my existing keys when getting my locks rekeyed at Home Depot?
A: Yes, you‘ll need to bring your current keys so the locksmith can ensure the new keys work properly with the rekeyed locks. -
Q: Can Home Depot rekey antique or vintage locks?
A: It depends on the specific lock and the expertise of the locksmith. Some antique locks may require specialized tools or knowledge to rekey properly. It‘s best to contact your local Home Depot to discuss your specific situation. -
Q: What if I lose my keys after getting my locks rekeyed at Home Depot?
A: If you lose your keys after getting your locks rekeyed, you‘ll need to either have the locks rekeyed again or have new keys made based on the current lock configuration. Keep a spare set of keys in a safe place to avoid this situation.
Conclusion
Rekeying your locks is an affordable and effective way to improve your home security and ensure that only authorized individuals have access to your property. Home Depot offers a convenient and reliable lock rekeying service at many of its locations, with prices starting at just $5 per lock.
By understanding the types of locks Home Depot can rekey, the process involved, and the costs, you can make an informed decision about whether this service is right for you. And by properly maintaining your locks and choosing high-quality hardware, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your home is securely protected.
So if you‘re looking to update your home security, consider rekeying your locks at Home Depot. With their skilled locksmiths and affordable prices, it‘s a smart choice for any homeowner looking to keep their property safe and secure.
Sources:
- National Crime Prevention Council, Home Security Tips
