Rekey vs Replace Locks — What's Right for Your Kokomo Indiana Home?

What Is the Difference Between Rekeying and Replacing Locks?

Rekeying changes the internal pin tumblers inside the lock cylinder so that old keys no longer work and a new key is required. The lock hardware — the deadbolt, knob, or lever — stays exactly the same. Only the internal configuration changes. Rekeying costs $25–$45 per lock and takes approximately 10 minutes per lock.

Replacing locks removes the entire lock hardware and installs a new unit. This is recommended when the lock is damaged, worn, or you want to upgrade to a higher security grade or a smart lock. Lock replacement costs $85–$200 per lock including new hardware and installation labor.

When Should You Rekey Locks in Kokomo Indiana?

Rekeying is the right choice when:

• Moving into a new home. Previous owners, real estate agents, and contractors may have copies of the original keys. Rekeying all exterior locks is the fastest, most affordable way to establish exclusive access. Cost for a typical Kokomo home: $75–$175.
• After losing your keys. If your house keys are lost or stolen, rekeying immediately prevents anyone who finds them from entering. A locksmith can rekey your locks same-day in Kokomo.
• After a breakup, divorce, or roommate change. If someone no longer has permission to access your home but has a key, rekeying is the simplest solution.
• After contractors had access. Repair crews, housecleaners, or property managers with key access should be cut off when the relationship ends.
• Locks are in good physical condition. If the hardware is not worn or damaged, there is no reason to replace it — rekeying provides the same security improvement at a fraction of the cost.

When Should You Replace Locks in Kokomo Indiana?

Replacement is the right choice when:

• The lock is physically damaged or worn. Sticking, grinding, or visibly damaged locks should be replaced. A worn lock provides reduced security even after rekeying.
• You want to upgrade security. If you currently have Grade 3 or Grade 2 locks on exterior doors, upgrading to Grade 1 deadbolts (Schlage, Kwikset, Medeco) provides meaningfully better protection.
• You want to install a smart lock. Smart locks replace the entire lock unit. A locksmith handles installation, app setup, and access code configuration.
• All locks are different brands. If your home has a mix of Kwikset and Schlage deadbolts, you cannot rekey them all to one key. Replacing with a single brand allows full rekeying to one master key.
• After a break-in. If the lock was physically compromised during forced entry, it must be replaced regardless of condition.

Cost Comparison: Rekeying vs Replacing in Kokomo

• Rekeying 1 lock: $25–$45 (labor only)
• Rekeying full home (4 locks): $100–$175
• Replacing 1 deadbolt (standard): $85–$130 (hardware + labor)
• Replacing 1 deadbolt (Grade 1 upgrade): $100–$175 (Schlage B60N + labor)
• Replacing full home (4 locks): $340–$700 depending on hardware choice
• Smart lock installation (single door): $150–$300 (smart lock hardware + setup)

Can All Locks Be Rekeyed?

Most standard residential locks — Kwikset, Schlage, Weiser, Baldwin, and others — can be rekeyed by a professional locksmith. Some proprietary lock systems may have limited rekeying options. High-security locks (Medeco, Mul-T-Lock) can be rekeyed but require brand-specific tools and pins. A locksmith can assess any lock and confirm whether rekeying is possible before starting work.

Should I Rekey All Locks to One Key?

Yes — this is called "keying alike" and is one of the most practical home security improvements. When all your exterior locks respond to a single key, you eliminate the inconvenience of multiple keys. A locksmith can rekey all your existing locks in one visit to work with a single new key — as long as all locks are the same brand.

Call Affordable Locksmith for Rekeying or Lock Replacement in Kokomo

Affordable Locksmith provides same-day rekeying and lock replacement throughout Kokomo, Indiana and Howard County. We carry the most common Kwikset and Schlage hardware on our service vehicles and can rekey most homes in a single visit. Call (855) 633-0750 — real person answers 24/7.