Rekeying vs. Replacing Locks – Which Is Right for Your Tampa Home?

Rekeying vs. Replacing Locks – Which Is Right for Your Tampa Home

If your locks are in good condition but you want to change who has access, rekeying is usually faster and more cost-effective. However, if your locks are damaged, outdated, mismatched, or you want to upgrade your home security, replacing your locks is the smarter long-term solution.



For Tampa homeowners, choosing the right option can save money while keeping your home secure. At Tampa Bay Lock & Key, we’ll inspect your locks and help you make the right call based on your goals, hardware condition, and budget.

Why This Decision Matters

Your locks are your home’s first line of defense. Whether you’ve just bought a new home in South Tampa, lost keys in St. Petersburg, or experienced an attempted break-in in Clearwater, you're likely wondering whether to rekey your locks or replace them entirely.

Making the wrong decision could mean spending more than you need to — or worse, leaving your home vulnerable.



At Tampa Bay Lock & Key, we help homeowners across the region make informed, confident decisions about their home security. Below, we break down the differences between rekeying and replacing, along with the pros, cons, costs, and real-life examples from Tampa Bay neighborhoods.

What Is Rekeying?

Rekeying is the process of altering the internal configuration of your existing locks — specifically, the pins and tumblers — so that old keys no longer work and new keys are required. The lock’s outer hardware remains in place.

This is often a great solution if your locks are in good condition and you simply want to change access without replacing the entire mechanism.

When to Choose Rekeying:

• You moved into a new home and don’t know who still has keys
  
  
• A roommate or tenant moved out and didn’t return all keys
  
  
• You lost your key in a public place (e.g., park, shopping mall)
  
  
• You gave a key to a contractor, housekeeper, or dog walker
  
  
• You want all locks in the home to work with a single key
  

Benefits of Rekeying:

• More affordable than full replacement
  
  
• Fast process – most locks rekeyed in under 15 minutes
  
  
• Maintains your home’s existing hardware and aesthetics
  
  
• Adds convenience by keying multiple locks alike
  
  
• Improves security without needing new locks
  
  

To learn more about how rekeying works and whether it’s right for you, visit our [Residential Locksmith Services – https://tampabaylockandkey.com/residential-locksmith].

What Is Lock Replacement?

Lock replacement means removing your current lock hardware entirely and installing a brand-new lock. This may be the same type of lock or an upgraded model with higher security, a different style, or added technology (like smart locks).

When to Choose Lock Replacement:

• The existing locks are damaged or malfunctioning
  
  
• You’ve experienced a break-in or attempted break-in
  
  
• You want to upgrade to high-security or smart lock technology
  
  
• Your locks are outdated or don't match your home's aesthetic
  
  
• You want to standardize different lock brands around your home
  
  

Benefits of Lock Replacement:

• Allows for a full security upgrade
  
  
• Enhances curb appeal with modern styles and finishes
  
  
• Enables integration of smart home features like remote access or keypad entry
  
  
• Addresses long-standing issues like sticky locks or key jamming
  
  
• Standardizes lock types across all doors for ease of use and consistency
  
  

Cost Comparison in Tampa

Understanding the typical cost range in Tampa Bay can help you make a budget-friendly decision.

Note: Pricing may vary based on lock brand, key type (standard vs. smart), and location. We always provide upfront quotes with no hidden fees.

Security Considerations

Choosing between rekeying and replacing often comes down to security goals and lock conditions.

Rekeying Is Best When:

• Your locks are still strong, functional, and match your home
  
  
• You only need to change who has access
  
  
• You want a quick, affordable solution
  
  

Replacing Is Best When:

• You want to increase protection against break-ins
  
  
• Your current locks are weak, old, or show signs of damage
  
  
• You want to switch to smart locks or digital keypad locks
  
  
• You're remodeling and want locks that match new doors or finishes
  
  

For significant upgrades, we recommend high-security locks with restricted keyways or smart features like remote lock control and audit trails.

Local Examples in Tampa Bay

Here’s how Tampa Bay homeowners are deciding between rekeying and replacing:

• Carrollwood: A family who just bought their home had us rekey every exterior door to ensure previous owners' keys wouldn't work — all locks now open with a single key.
  
  
• St. Pete Beach: A vacation homeowner wanted to monitor access while away. We replaced their traditional locks with smart locks for app-based control and tracking.
  
  
• Brandon: After an attempted burglary, the homeowner opted for full lock replacement with high-security deadbolts to prevent future access attempts.
  
  

South Tampa: An older home had mismatched hardware. We replaced all locks with modern matte black finishes to match new doors and boost curb appeal.

FAQ – Rekeying vs. Replacing Locks in Tampa

Can all locks be rekeyed?

Most standard residential locks can be rekeyed. However, certain high-security or electronic locks may require replacement or specialized rekeying.

Is rekeying as secure as lock replacement?

Yes — rekeying changes the internal pins, so old keys no longer work. As long as the lock is in good condition, rekeying is just as secure.

How long does each process take?

Rekeying takes about 10–15 minutes per lock. Lock replacement may take 20–30 minutes per lock, especially for complex systems or smart locks.

Can I rekey or replace locks myself?

DIY kits are available, but professional locksmiths ensure proper installation, maintain the integrity of your lock hardware, and protect your home’s security.



For consumer safety and hiring tips, check out [FTC Tips on Hiring a Locksmith – https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/hiring-locksmith].

Why Choose Tampa Bay Lock & Key

Tampa Bay Lock & Key has been a trusted name in home security since 1957. Here’s why local homeowners choose us:

• Over 65 years of experience serving Tampa Bay
  
  
• Licensed, insured, and locally owned
  
  
• Experts in rekeying, lock replacement, and smart lock installations
  
  
• Mobile service available across Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, and nearby areas
  
  
• Transparent, upfront pricing — no surprise fees
  
  

Familiarity with all major brands, including Kwikset, Schlage, Yale, and high-security models

Contact Us – Secure Your Home Today

Whether you’re looking to rekey your locks for peace of mind or upgrade to modern hardware, Tampa Bay Lock & Key is here to help.

Tampa: (813) 238-8000
St. Petersburg: (727) 259-9000

Call now for expert advice, honest pricing, and same-day service for rekeying or lock replacement across Tampa Bay.

Explore our full list of services here:
[Residential Locksmith Services –https://tampabaylockandkey.com/residential-locksmith]