Moving into a new Sydney home, dealing with lost keys, or simply wanting tighter security can leave you feeling vulnerable. The big question is always how long you’ll be waiting at the door for a locksmith.
Many people confuse rekeying with replacing locks entirely. This misunderstanding can lead to unnecessary delays, unexpected costs, and a whole lot of stress about your property’s safety.
The good news is that a professional Sydney locksmith can rekey your existing locks swiftly. It’s one of the fastest, most cost-effective ways to upgrade your security and regain peace of mind.
Rekeying a lock is the process of changing its internal components so that the old key no longer works. Think of it like changing the password on your email, but for your door. The external lock hardware remains the same, but it now operates with a brand new key.
If you’ve ever wondered how does rekeying a lock work, the essence of it is that a locksmith changes the internal pins inside the lock cylinder to match a brand new key, rendering all previous keys useless.
This is different from a full lock replacement, where the entire lock set is removed and swapped for a new one. Rekeying is often a cheaper and more efficient option, especially if your current locks are in good condition and you’re happy with their style and security level.
So, to the burning question: how long does it take to rekey a lock? For a professional locksmith, the average time is between 10 to 40 minutes per lock.
This timeframe isn’t set in stone. Several factors can influence how long the job will take. A straightforward job on a modern deadbolt with the original key on hand will be at the quicker end of the scale.
Factors that affect timing:
Wondering how do locksmiths rekey locks? While it requires skill, the process is methodical for a trained professional. They use specialised tools like plug followers, pinning kits, and tweezers.
In simple terms, they:
This precision is why it’s a job best handled by a qualified locksmith. They get it right the first time, ensuring your lock is perfectly secure.
You can buy DIY rekeying kits from hardware stores, so is it hard to rekey a lock yourself? The challenge is high, and the risks are higher.
Without the right tools and training, it’s very easy to misplace tiny springs or install pins incorrectly. This can permanently damage the lock mechanism, leaving you with a door you can’t lock—or even worse, can’t open. You might also compromise the lock’s security without realising it.
Hiring a professional locksmith might seem like an extra cost, but it saves you time, frustration, and money on potentially costly repairs from a DIY mistake.
Knowing when to rekey or replace a lock is key to making a smart security decision.
Rekeying is best when:
Replacement is necessary when:
For businesses, this is also the perfect time to consider installing master key systems in Sydney. This clever setup allows different keys to access different doors, while one master key can access them all, providing both security and convenience.
If replacement is the right path, you’re likely asking: how long does it take to change locks? A full replacement typically takes 20 to 60 minutes per lock, depending on the type and the door’s condition.
This is longer than rekeying because it involves completely removing the old hardware, potentially drilling new holes, and fitting the new lock from scratch. While more expensive due to the cost of new hardware, replacement is the best way to upgrade your security level or modernise your property’s look.
For a job this important to your safety, always choose a licensed, insured, and reputable locksmith. A professional ensures the work is done correctly, efficiently, and with a guarantee.
At All Time Locksmiths, our experienced Sydney locksmiths come to you fully equipped in mobile vans. We carry a vast array of parts and keys to get the job done on the spot. We provide fast, transparent service you can trust, whether you’re in the CBD or the suburbs.
Rekeying your locks is a quick, affordable, and highly effective security upgrade. With a typical job taking well under an hour for a standard door, it’s a minimal inconvenience for maximum peace of mind.
Don’t leave your home or business security to chance. For a reliable, fast, and professional service from a local team you can trust, call All Time Locksmiths today on 1300 705 307 to rekey your locks and secure your home or business in Sydney.
