Congratulations on your new home! Whether you're moving into a house in Branson, Hollister, or anywhere in Southwest Missouri, one of the first things you should do is address your locks. The previous owners — and anyone they gave keys to — still have access to your home until you do.
What Is Rekeying?
Rekeying means a locksmith changes the internal pins of your existing lock cylinder so that the old keys no longer work. New keys are cut to match the new pin configuration. The lock hardware stays the same — only the internal mechanism changes.
What Is Lock Replacement?
Lock replacement means removing the entire lock and installing a new one. This is more involved and more expensive, but it makes sense in certain situations.
When to Rekey
Rekeying is the right choice when:
- Your existing locks are in good condition
- You just want to ensure old keys don't work
- You want to save money (rekeying is typically 50–70% cheaper than replacement)
- You want all your locks to use the same key
When to Replace
Lock replacement makes more sense when:
- Your existing locks are worn, damaged, or low-quality
- You want to upgrade to a higher-security deadbolt
- You want to add a smart lock or keypad entry
- The lock style doesn't match your new door hardware
Our Recommendation
For most new homeowners, rekeying is the smart, cost-effective choice. If your locks are in good shape, there's no reason to spend money on new hardware just to get new keys. However, if you're moving into an older home with worn locks or basic builder-grade hardware, it's worth considering an upgrade at the same time.
We offer both services throughout Branson and Southwest Missouri. Call us at 417-257-4956 and we'll give you an honest recommendation based on your specific situation.