Rekey vs. Replace: A Brentwood Locksmith’s Guide to Securing Your New Home

Securing a new property is the first step in homeownership. But many new residents in Brentwood and Nashville ask us the same question: “Do I need to buy all new locks, or can I just change the key?”

The Technical Difference (How We Do It)

At Armstrong Locksmith Inc., we find that 90% of our clients don’t actually need new hardware—they just need new authorization. Here is the mechanical difference between the two services:

1. Rekeying

We remove the lock cylinder, dump out the existing bottom and top pins, and insert new pins that match a completely new key cut. By rekeying, we change the shear line logic so the old key will no longer turn the plug. Your door handles and deadbolts stay exactly where they are.

2. Replacing

We completely unscrew the chassis and strike plates to install brand-new hardware. This resets the mechanical integrity of the lock but costs more due to the price of materials.

When to Rekey (The “Smart Spend” Option)

In our experience servicing homes from Cool Springs to Crieve Hall, rekeying is the standard for new homeowners. You get the security of a new key without paying for metal you don’t need.

Choose rekeying if:

• You just bought a home: You have no idea if the previous owner gave a spare key to a dog walker, contractor, or neighbor.
• Budget is a priority: Rekeying generally costs a fraction of the price of buying high-quality Grade 1 or Grade 2 locksets.
• The hardware matches: You like the current style (e.g., Oil-Rubbed Bronze or Satin Nickel) and the mechanism turns smoothly.
• Tenant Turnover: If you own a rental property in Franklin or Brentwood, rekeying between tenants is legally compliant and cost-effective.

Rekeying keeps the hardware but changes the internal pins.

When to Replace (The Upgrade Option)

Sometimes, the internal mechanism is too worn to save, or the security rating is too low for a safe Brentwood neighborhood. In these cases, replacement is necessary.

Choose replacement if:

• Mechanical Failure: If the key feels “mushy” or you have to jiggle it to get the bolt to throw, the internal springs or tailpiece may be failing.
• Security Upgrade: Many builder-grade locks installed in new subdivisions are easy to pick or drill. We recommend upgrading to high-security brands like Schlage or Medeco that feature reinforced strike plates.
• Going Keyless: If you want to install a keypad or Wi-Fi-enabled smart lock for keyless entry.
• Damage: If you’ve suffered a break-in attempt, the latch or bolt assembly is likely compromised.

Real Case: A Move-In Near Crockett Park

We recently helped a family who just moved into a large property near Crockett Park in Brentwood. They assumed they needed to replace all 8 exterior locks because they wanted “fresh keys.”

The Quote Comparison:

• Replacement Cost: Replacing 8 handlesets and deadbolts with high-quality hardware would have cost them upwards of $1,200 in parts and labor.
• Our Solution: We inspected the locks and found they were high-end Baldwin hardware in perfect condition. We simply rekeyed the cylinders.

The Result: The family saved nearly $800, kept their beautiful hardware, and we were finished in under 90 minutes.

Written by Rahim Ezzadpanah

Owner of Armstrong Locksmith

Rahim has over 18 years of experience in the locksmith field, specializing in commercial access control and high-security residential hardware.