Rekeying Locks in Fort McMurray: What It Is and When You Need It
Rekeying is one of the most misunderstood locksmith services — and one of the most useful. Many people assume that when security is a concern, the locks need to be replaced entirely. In most situations, rekeying achieves the same result faster and for significantly less money. As a certified Journeyman Locksmith serving Fort McMurray, I rekey locks every day and get the same questions regularly. Here is a clear explanation of what rekeying is, how it works, and when it is the right call.
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What Is Rekeying?
Rekeying is the process of changing the internal pin configuration of a lock cylinder so that the old key no longer works and a new key is cut to match the new configuration. The lock hardware — the deadbolt, knob, or lever — stays in the door. Only the internal pins are changed.
Inside every pin tumbler lock — which is the standard type used in most residential and commercial doors — there are a series of spring-loaded pin stacks. Each stack has a bottom pin and a top pin. When the correct key is inserted, the cuts on the key push each bottom pin to exactly the right height so that the gap between the bottom and top pin aligns with the shear line of the cylinder. When all pins are at the shear line simultaneously, the cylinder rotates and the lock opens.
Rekeying changes the bottom pins to a new set that corresponds to a new key. The old key no longer aligns the pins correctly and will not open the lock. A new key cut to match the new pin configuration will.
Rekeying vs. Changing the Locks — What Is the Difference?
This is the most common question. The answer comes down to the condition and quality of the existing hardware:
- Rekey when: the existing lock hardware is in good condition, the right security grade for the application, and you simply need to change who has a working key. Rekeying is faster and less expensive — typically completed in 15-20 minutes per lock
- Change the lock when: the hardware is worn, damaged, low quality, or you want to upgrade to a higher security grade. A lock change replaces the entire lock mechanism including the cylinder, bolt, and trim hardware
For most situations involving key control — moving into a new home, a tenant moving out, staff leaving a business, lost keys — rekeying is the right choice. See our lock change services page for situations where full replacement makes more sense.
When Should You Rekey Your Locks?
Moving Into a New Home
This is the single most important rekeying situation. When you take possession of a home — new build, resale, or rental — you have no way of knowing how many key copies exist or who has them. Previous owners, real estate agents, contractors, cleaners, and neighbours may all have working keys. Rekeying all exterior locks on possession day gives you complete key control from day one.
Lost or Stolen Keys
If your keys are lost, you do not know where they are or who found them. If they were stolen, the risk is clear. Rekeying immediately after losing keys is standard security practice — it is significantly faster and less expensive than replacing all affected locks.
Tenant or Staff Changes
For Fort McMurray landlords and business owners, rekeying after every tenant or relevant staff change is basic key control. Requesting keys back from a departing tenant or employee is not sufficient — copies may have been made. Rekeying is the only reliable way to ensure previous occupants or staff no longer have access.
After Giving Keys to Contractors or Service Workers
If you gave a key to a contractor, cleaning service, or any other service provider and the relationship has ended, rekey the affected locks. You should always know exactly who has a working key to your property.
Keying Alike — One Key for Multiple Locks
Rekeying is also the solution when you want to simplify your key ring. If your front door, back door, and garage entry all use different keys, we can rekey them all to the same key — called keying alike. One key operates all exterior locks. No more fumbling through multiple keys to get in the door.
Can All Locks Be Rekeyed?
Most standard pin tumbler locks can be rekeyed — deadbolts, knobs, levers, and padlocks from most major brands. Some specialty locks, very old locks with worn cylinders, or certain electronic locks with proprietary cylinders may require different approaches. Fort McMurray Locksmith carries rekeying equipment for most common residential and commercial lock brands and can assess on-site whether rekeying is possible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rekeying
How much does rekeying cost in Fort McMurray?
Rekeying is significantly less expensive than replacing locks. Cost depends on the number of locks and lock type. We always quote the full price before starting any work — call 780-588-5383 for a quote.
Can you rekey a lock without the original key?
Yes — see our detailed post on rekeying without the original key for the full explanation. In short, a locksmith can pick or impression the lock to create a working key before rekeying.
How long does rekeying take?
Most residential lock rekeying takes 15-20 minutes per lock. A full home rekey of 3-4 exterior locks is typically completed in under an hour on a single visit.
For full details on our rekeying services see our rekey services page.
Fort McMurray Locksmith — professional rekeying services for homes and businesses across Fort McMurray.
Call 780-588-5383 or Book a Locksmith in Fort McMurray.