Lock Change
Replacing the hardware rather than just the keys. Worth doing when a lock is worn, damaged, or weaker than the door deserves.
Changing a lock means replacing the hardware on the door rather than just changing what key operates it. It is the right answer less often than people expect, but when it is the right answer, rekeying will not fix the problem.
When replacing is worth it
- The lock is worn out. A key that has to be wiggled, lifted or held at an angle is a lock telling you it is near the end.
- It has been damaged, by a break-in attempt, weather, or someone forcing it.
- It is builder-grade and you want something better on a door that matters.
- The finish no longer matches after a door or entryway has been redone.
- You want a different type, adding a deadbolt, or moving to a keypad or smart lock.
If none of those apply and you simply want the old keys dead, rekeying does the same job for less.
Sticking is not always the lock
A door that is hard to lock is often a door and frame problem rather than a hardware problem. Houses move with the seasons, and when the bolt no longer lines up with the strike, the lock takes the blame for something that is not its fault.
Adjusting the strike is a smaller job than replacing hardware, and we will tell you which one you are actually dealing with before selling you a lock you do not need.
Hardware we fit
We install and stock the well-known brands, including Yale, Kwikset and Schlage, because they are reliable, parts are available, and we know how they behave over time.
Deadbolts, knob and lever sets, handlesets, keypad locks and smart locks. If you want a particular finish or a specific model, say so when you call.
Buying your own lock
Plenty of people buy hardware themselves and have us fit it. Three things are worth checking before you order, because they are what usually goes wrong.
- Deadbolt or handle. Keypad locks come in both and they are not interchangeable. A keypad handle will not fit a hole drilled for a deadbolt. Look at what is on the door now and buy the same type.
- Matching your existing keys. A new lock can only be keyed to your current key if it uses the same keyway. Different brands mostly use different keyways, so a Schlage will not take a Kwikset key. If you want everything on one key, tell us before you buy.
- Brand. Some of the cheaper online locks have undersized cylinders that are difficult to rekey, and a few are not built to be opened for rekeying at all.
Send us a photo of your current lock and the door edge if you are unsure. It takes a minute and saves ordering the wrong thing. Hardware you supply is not covered by our warranty, because we did not supply it.
Common questions
Should I change my locks or just rekey them?
Rekey if the hardware is fine and you only want old keys to stop working. Replace if the lock is worn, damaged, or weaker than you want on that door. We will tell you honestly which one your door needs.
Will a new lock work with my existing key?
Only if it uses the same keyway. Where it does not, we can rekey the new lock to match your key, or key everything to a new one. Mention it before you buy hardware.
Do you fit locks I bought myself?
Yes. Check the deadbolt-or-handle question and the keyway first. Locks you supply are not covered by our warranty since we did not supply them.
Can you match the finish on my other doors?
Usually. Tell us what you have and we will get something that matches, or close to it if the original is discontinued.
My key sticks. Do I need a new lock?
Often not. Sticking is frequently a door or frame alignment problem rather than a failing lock, and adjusting the strike is a much smaller job.
Communities we serve
Get Lock Change in Columbus
Call if it is urgent. Send a request if you want a quote first.