Table of Contents

How Much Does It Cost to Rekey a Lock at Home Depot? Your Comprehensive Guide

The short answer is that Home Depot charges around $5 to $15 to rekey a lock cylinder. However, that’s just the starting point. Several factors can influence the final cost, from the type of lock you have to whether you bring the lock in or require a service call. This comprehensive guide will dissect the costs associated with rekeying locks at Home Depot, exploring the various options available and arming you with the knowledge to make the best decision for your security needs.

Understanding the Basics of Rekeying

Before diving into the specifics of Home Depot’s services, let’s establish a fundamental understanding of what rekeying actually entails. Rekeying doesn’t replace the entire lock mechanism. Instead, it involves changing the internal components, specifically the pins and springs within the lock cylinder, to match a new key. This renders the old key useless, effectively providing you with a new level of security without the expense of replacing the entire lockset. Rekeying is particularly useful when:

You’ve moved into a new home or apartment.
You’ve lost or misplaced your keys.
You want to prevent a former tenant, contractor, or employee from accessing your property.
You want to upgrade to a higher security key system.

Home Depot’s Rekeying Services and Pricing Breakdown

Home Depot offers a convenient and relatively affordable option for rekeying locks. As mentioned earlier, the base price generally ranges from $5 to $15 per lock cylinder. This price applies when you bring the lock cylinder or the entire lockset into the store. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

Rekeying a Lock Cylinder (Bring-In Service): This is the most cost-effective option. You detach the lock cylinder from your door and bring it to the Home Depot service desk. A trained associate will then rekey the cylinder to a new key you provide (or purchase in-store). The cost typically falls within the $5-$15 range, depending on the complexity of the lock.
Rekeying a Lockset (Bring-In Service): If you’re not comfortable disassembling the lock, you can bring in the entire lockset (the handle and cylinder together). The rekeying process is the same, but the associate may charge a slightly higher fee, possibly adding a dollar or two, due to the increased handling.
On-Site Rekeying (Professional Service): Home Depot also offers professional locksmith services through third-party providers. This involves a locksmith coming to your home to rekey your locks. This is significantly more expensive, with prices varying depending on location, the number of locks, and the time of day. Expect to pay a service call fee (typically $75-$150 or more) in addition to the per-lock rekeying fee. The per lock fee could be $25-$50 or more. This option is ideal if you have many locks to rekey, don’t want to remove them yourself, or need the service performed urgently.
Smart Lock Rekeying: Some smart locks can be rekeyed, but this often requires specialized knowledge. Home Depot may or may not be able to rekey certain smart lock models in-store. It’s best to call your local store or contact the manufacturer of your smart lock for specific instructions. On-site professional service is usually necessary in this case.

Factors Affecting the Cost

Several factors can influence the final cost of rekeying your locks at Home Depot:

Type of Lock: Simple pin tumbler locks are the least expensive to rekey. More complex locks, such as high-security locks or those with specialized features, may incur a higher fee.
Number of Locks: The more locks you need rekeyed, the higher the overall cost. However, some locksmiths or Home Depot partners may offer discounts for larger jobs.
Key Duplicates: If you need multiple copies of your new key, that will add to the total cost. Home Depot can cut keys in-store for a small fee per key.
Location: Prices can vary slightly depending on your geographical location.

Pros and Cons of Rekeying at Home Depot

Weighing the pros and cons is important to make an informed decision:

Pros:

Convenience: Home Depot stores are widely available, making it easy to access rekeying services.
Affordability: In-store rekeying is generally cheaper than hiring a professional locksmith directly.
Speed: The rekeying process is usually quick, especially if you bring in the lock cylinder.

Cons:

Limited Expertise: Home Depot associates may not have the same level of expertise as a licensed locksmith, especially for complex or high-security locks.
On-Site Service Costs: Professional on-site rekeying through Home Depot’s partners can be more expensive than going directly to a locksmith.
Vulnerability During Removal: You leave your door unprotected while the lock cylinder is removed and being rekeyed.

Choosing the Right Option for Your Needs

Consider the following factors when deciding whether to rekey at Home Depot or hire a professional locksmith:

Budget: If cost is a major concern, in-store rekeying is the most affordable option.
Security Needs: For basic security needs, Home Depot’s service is adequate. However, if you require high-security locks or have specific security concerns, a professional locksmith is recommended.
Convenience: If you prefer the convenience of having a locksmith come to your home, be prepared to pay a higher price.
Lock Complexity: If you have complex or high-security locks, a professional locksmith with specialized knowledge is essential.
Timing: If you need the service performed immediately, calling a locksmith directly might be faster, especially if Home Depot’s on-site service has limited availability.

FAQs about Rekeying Locks

Here are some frequently asked questions to provide further clarity:

1. Can Home Depot rekey any type of lock?

Home Depot can rekey most standard pin tumbler locks. However, they may not be able to rekey specialized or high-security locks, such as those with restricted keyways or unique security features. It’s best to call your local store to inquire about specific lock types.

2. Do I need to bring the original key to rekey a lock?

No, you don’t need the original key to rekey a lock. Rekeying changes the internal components to match a new key.

3. How long does it take to rekey a lock at Home Depot?

In-store rekeying typically takes 10-20 minutes per lock cylinder. However, this can vary depending on the complexity of the lock and the store’s workload.

4. Can I get multiple locks rekeyed to the same key (keyed alike) at Home Depot?

Yes, Home Depot can usually rekey multiple locks to the same key, so that one key opens all the locks. This is a common request and offers convenience.

5. Does Home Depot offer a warranty on rekeying services?

The warranty on rekeying services may vary. It’s best to inquire about the specific warranty offered by your local Home Depot store or the third-party provider if you opt for on-site service.

6. What if I don’t know how to remove the lock cylinder?

Home Depot associates can provide guidance on removing the lock cylinder. You can also find helpful videos and instructions online. If you’re uncomfortable with the process, consider hiring a professional locksmith or opting for Home Depot’s on-site service.

7. Are there any specific brands of locks that Home Depot can’t rekey?

While Home Depot can rekey many brands, certain high-security brands with restricted keyways may require specialized tools and knowledge that Home Depot associates may not possess. Check with your local store for specifics.

8. What should I do if the rekeyed lock doesn’t work properly?

If the rekeyed lock doesn’t work smoothly or the key doesn’t turn easily, return to Home Depot with the lock and key. They can troubleshoot the issue and make any necessary adjustments. If you opted for on-site service, contact the locksmith directly.

9. Is it cheaper to rekey or replace a lock?

Rekeying is generally cheaper than replacing a lock, especially if the existing lock hardware is in good condition. However, if the lock is old, damaged, or you want to upgrade to a higher security model, replacing the lock might be a better option.

10. Does Home Depot offer master keying services?

Home Depot may offer limited master keying services. Master keying allows for a system where one master key can open all locks, while individual keys only open specific locks. This is more complex and may require a professional locksmith.

11. Can Home Depot install a new lock after rekeying the cylinder?

Yes, if you purchase a new lock at Home Depot, they can typically install it for you or recommend a professional installer, for an additional fee.

12. What are the alternatives to rekeying, such as changing the entire lockset?

If you want to upgrade to a higher security lock, want to change the aesthetic of the lock, or have a damaged lockset, replacing the entire lockset is a good alternative. You can purchase new locksets at Home Depot, or you can contact a local locksmith to get professional advice on the most appropriate alternative for you.

By understanding the costs, considerations, and options available, you can confidently choose the best approach to rekeying your locks and securing your property.