If you’re trying to work out whether to rekey vs replace locks in Warranwood, the short answer is usually pretty simple — most of the time, rekeying will cost you less.
At Frontline Locksmiths, based in Ringwood, we get called out to homes across Warranwood, Ringwood and Croydon where people have just moved in and suddenly realise they’ve got no idea how many copies of their keys are still out there. That’s usually when the conversation around rekeying starts. Sometimes, it’s an emergency situation where keys have been lost or stolen and you need to rekey the locks FAST! Replacing locks is more expensive but sometimes it’s the right call — especially if the hardware is worn, sticking, or outdated.
What Rekeying Actually Means
So when a locksmith suggests rekeying a lock instead of replacing it, what does that actually mean? Rekeying isn’t replacing the lock — it’s changing the internal pin setup so the old keys stop working.
At Frontline Locksmiths, we do this regularly in homes across Warranwood and Ringwood, especially when people have just moved in whether they have purchased a new home, moved into a rental, new office or business.
We usually see situations like:
- New homeowners wanting full key control
- Rental properties changing renters (tenants)
- Lost or unaccounted-for keys
A common example is someone moving into a Warranwood home assuming they have all copies — then later discovering a tradie or previous owner still has one. That’s a textbook rekey situation.
When We Recommend Replacing a Lock
Replacing a lock means removing the existing hardware and installing a new one.
At Frontline Locksmiths, we usually recommend replacement when something about the lock itself isn’t right anymore.
That includes:
- stiff or unreliable locks
- keys sticking or not turning smoothly
- doors that have been forced
- older hardware (common in Blackburn, Templestowe and Vermont homes)
Sometimes it’s not even about security — it’s just that the lock has reached the end of its lifespan.
So… Rekey vs Replace Locks – What’s Actually Cheaper?
In Warranwood and surrounding suburbs, rekeying almost always comes in cheaper than replacing your locks.
Here’s the simple breakdown:
Rekeying (usually cheaper):
- Keeps existing hardware
- Less labour
- Quick for multiple doors
- Ideal after moving house
Replacing locks (more expensive):
- New hardware required
- More installation time
- Better long-term upgrade option
- Needed when locks are failing
At Frontline Locksmiths, we usually explain to our clients like this:
“If the lock is In good working condition, we’ll rekey it. If it isn’t, we’ll suggest replacing it.”
Is Rekeying as Secure as Replacing Locks?
One of the most common questions we get is whether rekeying is actually as secure as replacing a lock. In most cases — yes, it is.
When we rekey a lock, the internal pins are changed so all old keys stop working completely. That means previous owners, renters, real estate agent, tradespeople or anyone else with a copy can no longer access the property.
At Frontline Locksmiths, we often say:
“If the lock is in good condition and working properly, rekeying gives you the same security — just with new keys and peace of mind knowing you have full control.”
However, if the lock is worn or low quality, rekeying won’t improve the physical strength of the lock. That’s when replacement makes more sense.
When to Rekey vs Replace After Moving House
Most of the rekey jobs we do in Warranwood and surrounding suburbs come down to:
- Buying a new home
- Losing keys
- Rental turnover
- Uncertainty about who has copies
At Frontline Locksmiths, we often tell clients that rekeying after moving in is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to secure a property properly.
Rekey vs Replace Locks for Older or Damaged Hardware
Sometimes rekeying just delays the real issue. We usually recommend replacing locks when:
- they feel loose or worn
- the key turns inconsistently
- there’s visible damage
- the lock is outdated or easy to bypass
- you’re upgrading overall security
Can All Locks Be Rekeyed?
Most residential locks can be rekeyed but not all locks are worth rekeying depending on their condition and quality.
At Frontline Locksmiths, we regularly rekey trusted brands like Lockwood, Carbine, Whitco and Gainsborough. These are designed for proper locksmith servicing.
However, we also come across cheaper or mass-produced locks where rekeying isn’t always practical due to part availability or long-term reliability concerns. In those cases, replacement is usually the better option.
At Frontline Locksmiths, we follow industry standards set by the Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia so we will always provide you an honest opinion and the most economic option available.
Types of Locks We Commonly Rekey
Frontline Locksmiths regularly rekey:
- entrance sets
- deadbolts
- garage T-handles
- letterbox locks
- side gates and patio doors
We also recommend checking garage remotes at the same time, as they are often overlooked access points.
When We Recommend Upgrading Instead
Even if a lock can be rekeyed, it’s not always the best option.
At Frontline Locksmiths, we’ll often recommend upgrading if:
- the lock is used heavily
- the setup isn’t convenient
- or security can be improved with better hardware
For example, for a recent client who moved into their Warranwood home, their garage-to-house door used daily was better suited to a deadlatch rather than the existing basic deadbolt. Rather than rekey the deadbolt we suggested upgrading the lock which would provide easier access in the future. The client chose a smart lock for this door but a single or double cylinder deadlatch would have provided the functionality they required over the existing deadbolt.
Not Sure If Your Lock Can Be Rekeyed?
If you’re unsure, the easiest thing is to contact Frontline Locksmiths.
Send through a few photos, tell us what you’re trying to achieve and we’ll walk you through the best option.
At Frontline Locksmiths, we’ll also tell you honestly what we would do if it were our own home — not just the cheapest (or most expensive) option.
Frontline Local Advice
Around Warranwood, most homeowners don’t actually need full lock replacements when they first move in.
In most cases, rekeying does the job perfectly well and is the most cost-effective way to reset access.
At Frontline Locksmiths, we see it every day — if the lock is solid, rekey it. If it’s not, replace it.
Call Frontline Locksmiths
If you need help, call 0407 744 537 for fast service across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.