When you move into a new home, one important thing to think about is how secure your locks are. Instead of replacing all your locks, you can rekey them to make sure your home is safe. Here’s a simple guide on how to do it, and why you might need a Locksmith in Grand Strand SC to help you.
Why Rekeying Your Locks is a Great Idea
Rekeying is an easy way to make sure all your locks work with one key. This can save you time and make your home more secure. You might have heard that rekeying is used a lot in businesses, but it’s also a great option for homes. With a master key system, you can unlock different doors with just one key!
How to Rekey a Schlage Lock
Schlage locks are very popular in the U.S. since 1920, so you might have them in your new house. If you want to rekey a Schlage lock, follow these simple steps:
Get a Schlage Rekey Kit
First, you need a Schlage rekey kit. This kit includes everything you need, like a follower bar, a key gauge, and a cylinder cap removal tool. It also comes with new pins and springs for your lock. There’s even a rekey kit map to guide you through the process.
Disassemble the Lock
Use the key gauge to take off the door knob. Next, find the lock’s cylinder cap and remove it using the removal tool. Slide the deadbolt out using the follower bar. Keep the follower bar in place and make sure its notch is horizontal.
Begin Rekeying
Check the new key’s cut number to match it with the pins. Insert the new key into the cylinder and use the rekey kit map to place the correct pins in the lock. Make sure all pins are even with the cylinder’s top surface.
Reinstall the Lock
Push the cylinder back into the deadbolt housing with the follower bar. Remove the new key and put the cylinder spring and pin back in place. Tighten the cylinder cap and test your lock to make sure it works.
Final Pointers
Rekeying can be tricky if you don’t know what you’re doing. If you’re unsure, it’s a good idea to call a professional. Locksmith Grand Strand SC can help you with all your rekeying and locksmith needs.