1Rekeying a home typically takes 15 to 45 minutes per lock, and most homes with two to four exterior doors are fully rekeyed in under an hour. The exact time depends on the number of locks, the type of hardware, and whether every lock is being set to use the same key. For most homeowners, a rekey is one of the fastest security upgrades available.
What Actually Happens During a Rekey?
Rekeying doesn’t involve replacing your locks. Instead, a locksmith opens the lock cylinder and swaps out the small internal pins that determine which key will work. Once the new pins are in place, any old keys stop working immediately, even though the exterior hardware looks exactly the same. The process includes:
- Removing the lock cylinder from the door
- Replacing the internal pin set to match a new key
- Testing the lock with the new key to confirm proper operation
- Reassembling the hardware, usually with no visible change to the door
What Affects the Timeline?
A few factors can add or subtract time from a standard rekey:
- Number of locks: More doors mean more time, though each additional lock usually only adds a few minutes once a locksmith is on site
- Lock condition: Older or stiff locks sometimes need cleaning or minor adjustment during the rekey
- Matching keys across doors: Setting every lock to the same key takes a bit more coordination than rekeying doors independently
- Lock brand and type: Common residential brands rekey quickly, while less common or higher-security locks can take slightly longer
Is Rekeying Faster Than Replacing Locks?
Yes. Replacing a lock means removing the entire unit and installing new hardware, which takes more time and costs more in parts. Rekeying keeps your existing locks in place and simply changes what key operates them, which is why it’s often the faster and more affordable choice when your hardware is already in good shape.
When Do Homeowners Usually Need a Rekey?
Rekeying comes up in a handful of common situations:
- Moving into a previously owned home
- A lost or stolen key
- A roommate, tenant, or family member moving out
- General peace of mind after misplacing a key temporarily
Can You Get a Home Rekeyed the Same Day?
In most cases, yes. Because rekeying is a quick, on-site job rather than a hardware replacement, a locksmith can typically complete the work during a single visit without needing to order parts or return on a separate day.
Ready to Get Your Home Rekeyed?
If you’ve just moved in, lost a key, or simply want peace of mind, a rekey is usually quicker and more affordable than most homeowners expect. Curleys Key Shop has been rekeying homes throughout the Pomona Valley since 1951, and most jobs are completed in a single visit.
Call (909) 622-6716 to schedule your rekey or ask any questions about the process.