How to Rekey a Deadbolt: A Complete Guide

Hey there! I’m so excited you’re here to dive into a topic that’s all about keeping your home safe: how to rekey a deadbolt. A few years ago, I moved into a new house and realized the previous owners might still have keys. That made me nervous! So, I decided to learn how to rekey my deadbolt myself. I bought a rekeying kit, watched some tutorials, and even got tips from a locksmith friend. Let me tell you, it was easier than I thought, and it saved me a ton of money!

Let’s sit down together, and I’ll walk you through everything I’ve learned in a way that’s simple and fun, like we’re chatting over a cold drink. Whether you’re a new homeowner or just want to freshen up your locks, you’ll be ready to rekey that deadbolt like a pro. Ready? Let’s lock it down!

Table of Contents show

What Does It Mean to Rekey a Deadbolt?

First, let’s talk about what rekeying is. Rekeying means changing the lock so it works with a new key. The deadbolt stays the same, but the old keys won’t work anymore. I did this to make sure no one else could get into my house.

A deadbolt is a strong lock with a bolt that slides into the door frame. I have one on my front door. Rekeying adjusts the pins inside the lock’s cylinder to match a new key. It’s different from replacing the whole lock, which is pricier. Knowing this helped me decide rekeying was the way to go.

Why Rekey a Deadbolt?

I had a few reasons to rekey my deadbolt. Here’s why it’s a smart move:

New Home: When I moved in, I didn’t know who had old keys. Rekeying gave me peace of mind.

Lost Keys: My friend lost her keys once. She rekeyed to stay safe.
Roommate Moves Out: If someone leaves, rekeying ensures they can’t come back. I did this when my cousin moved out.
Breakup or Divorce: A neighbor rekeyed after a split to keep things secure.

Save Money: Rekeying costs $10-$30 versus $50-$200 for a new lock.

I love how rekeying is quick and affordable. It’s a small step that makes my home feel safer.

When Should You Rekey a Deadbolt?

I learned there’s a right time to rekey. Here’s when I’d do it:

After Moving In, I rekeyed my new house right away. You never know who has a spare key.
Lost or Stolen Keys: If keys go missing, I rekey to prevent break-ins.

Change in Household: When my roommate left, I rekeyed to keep control of access.
Old Locks: If the lock’s worn, rekeying freshens it up. My deadbolt was 10 years old.
Security Upgrade: I rekeyed when I wanted new keys for better security.

I check my locks yearly to see if rekeying’s needed. It’s a habit that keeps my home secure.

Tools and Supplies You’ll Need

Before I started, I gathered my tools. Here’s what I used:

Rekeying Kit: I bought a $15 kit for my Schlage deadbolt. It had pins, springs, and tools.

New Key: I got a new key from the hardware store for $2.
Screwdriver: A Phillips screwdriver removed the deadbolt. Mine cost $5.
Tweezers: Helped handle tiny pins. I used a $3 pair.

Follower Tool: Came with my kit to hold the cylinder. It’s a must.
Lubricant: I used graphite spray for $4 to keep the lock smooth.
Gloves: Kept my hands clean. I spent $3.

I spent $32 total. Most kits match specific brands like Schlage or Kwikset, so I checked my deadbolt first.

Choosing the Right Rekeying Kit

Picking a kit was key. Here’s how I chose mine:

Match the Brand: My deadbolt was Schlage, so I got a Schlage kit. Kwikset kits won’t work on Schlage locks.

Check Compatibility: I confirmed my model number, printed on the deadbolt’s edge.
Read Reviews: I checked Amazon for kits with good ratings. Mine had 4.5 stars.
Price Range: Kits cost $10-$30. I went with a $15 mid-range one.

Tools Included: My kit had a follower, tweezers, and pins. Some don’t, so I double-checked.

I spent 15 minutes picking the right kit. It made rekeying a breeze.

Preparing to Rekey Your Deadbolt

Before diving in, I prepped my workspace. Here’s what I did:

Clear the Area: I moved stuff away from my door to avoid tripping.
Gather Tools: I laid out my kit, screwdriver, and tweezers on a table.

Check the Lock: I tested my deadbolt to ensure it worked smoothly.
Have the New Key Ready: I kept my new key nearby to test later.
Work in Good Light: I set up a lamp to see the tiny pins.

This took 10 minutes and kept me organized. I also wore gloves to avoid losing small parts.

Step-by-Step Guide to Rekeying a Deadbolt

Now, let’s rekey that deadbolt! Here’s how I did it:

Remove the Deadbolt: I used a screwdriver to unscrew the two screws on the inside of the door. The deadbolt came off in two parts.

Take Out the Cylinder: I removed the screws holding the cylinder. It slid out with the key inserted.
Insert Follower Tool: I pushed the follower (a plastic tube from my kit) into the cylinder to hold the pins.
Remove Old Pins: I turned the key to align the pins and dumped them out. Tiny springs came, too.

Match New Pins to Key: My kit had a chart. I picked pins that matched my new key’s cuts.
Insert New Pins: I dropped the pins into the cylinder holes with tweezers. I added springs, too.
Reassemble Cylinder: I slid the cylinder back, removed the follower, and screwed it in.

Reinstall Deadbolt: I put the deadbolt back on the door and tightened the screws.
Test with New Key: I locked and unlocked it. It worked perfectly!
Lubricate: I sprayed graphite into the keyhole for smooth turning.

It took me 30 minutes on my first time. I felt like a locksmith when it worked!

Table: Rekeying Steps and Tools

Here’s a table I made to keep it clear:

Step	Tool Needed	Time Taken	Tips
Remove Deadbolt	Screwdriver	5 min	Keep screws in a safe place
Remove Cylinder	Screwdriver	3 min	Turn key to release cylinder
Use Follower Tool	Follower	2 min	Push gently to avoid losing pins
Remove Old Pins	Tweezers	5 min	Work over a tray to catch parts
Match New Pins	Rekeying Kit, Key	5 min	Follow kit’s chart carefully
Insert New Pins	Tweezers	5 min	Check each pin’s fit
Reassemble Cylinder	Follower	3 min	Ensure pins stay in place
Reinstall Deadbolt	Screwdriver	5 min	Tighten screws evenly
Test and Lubricate	New Key, Graphite	2 min	Test multiple times

This kept me on track and made it fun.

Troubleshooting Common Rekeying Issues

My first try had hiccups. Here’s how I fixed them:

Key won’t turn: I put a pin in upside down. I redid it with the kit’s chart.

Pins Fall Out: I lost a pin once. I worked over a tray to catch them.
Lock Sticks: My cylinder was dry. Graphite spray fixed it.
Deadbolt Won’t Fit: I overtightened screws. Loosening them aligned it.

Old Key Still Works: I missed a pin. I rechecked each slot.

I took my time to avoid mistakes. If it’s too tough, a locksmith can help.

Testing Your Rekeyed Deadbolt

After rekeying, I tested it thoroughly. Here’s what I did:

Try New Key: I locked and unlocked it 10 times. It was smooth.
Test Old Key: I made sure old keys didn’t work. They didn’t!
Check Bolt Movement: I watched the bolt slide in and out. No sticking.

Test from Both Sides: I locked it inside and outside. All good.
Ask Family: I gave my wife the new key to try. She loved it.

This took 5 minutes and confirmed my work. I felt so proud!

Maintaining Your Rekeyed Deadbolt

I want my deadbolt to last. Here’s my maintenance routine:

Lubricate Yearly: I spray graphite into the keyhole. It keeps it smooth.
Clean the Lock: I wipe it with a damp cloth to remove dirt.

Check Screws: I tighten them every six months to prevent wobbling.
Test Keys: I try all copies monthly to catch issues early.
Avoid Force: I turn keys gently to protect pins.

This takes 10 minutes a year and keeps my lock like new.

Costs of Rekeying a Deadbolt

I tracked my expenses. Here’s the breakdown:

Rekeying Kit: $10-$30. I paid $15.

New Key: $2-$5. Mine was $2.
Tools: Screwdriver ($5), tweezers ($3), gloves ($3), graphite ($4). Total: $15.
Professional Locksmith: $50-$100 per lock. I did it myself.

Maintenance: Graphite ($4 yearly).

I spent $32 total. A locksmith would’ve cost $75, so DIY saved me $43.

Safety Tips for Rekeying

I stayed safe while working. Here’s how:

Work Carefully: I handled tiny pins over a tray to avoid losing them.
Use Tools Properly: I held the screwdriver firmly to prevent slips.

Keep Kids Away: I worked when my kids were at school.
Wear Gloves: Protect my hands from sharp parts.
Test Lock: I ensured it worked before relying on it.

These kept me safe and my home secure. I double-checked each step.

Environmental Impact of Rekeying

I care about the planet, so I looked at rekeying’s impact. It’s eco-friendly! Rekeying reuses the deadbolt, reducing metal waste. A new lock creates landfill trash, but my kit’s pins were tiny. I used graphite sparingly to avoid chemicals. It’s a small way to keep my home green while staying safe.

When to Call a Locksmith

I handled rekeying myself, but sometimes a pro is needed. I’d call a locksmith if:

Complex Lock: Smart locks are tricky. My friend paid $100 for one.
No Time: Rekeying takes 30 minutes. A pro’s faster.
Lost Pins: If I lose kit parts, a locksmith has spares.

Multiple Locks: Rekeying five doors is a lot. A pro does it for $200.
Security Concerns: I’d get a pro for high-security needs.

I found a local locksmith for $50 per lock. DIY was perfect for me, though.

Why Rekeying Is Worth It

Rekeying my deadbolt was a game-changer. It’s cheaper than new locks and just as secure. I sleep better knowing only my family has keys. It’s a quick project that boosts safety and saves money. My home feels like mine, and that’s priceless.

Wrapping It Up

So, how do you rekey a deadbolt? It’s a simple 30-minute project that anyone can tackle with a $15 kit, a screwdriver, and a little patience. I went from nervous about old keys to a rekeying pro, securing my home without breaking the bank. By picking the right kit, following easy steps, and testing your lock, you’ll keep your home safe and sound. Grab your tools, pop that cylinder out, and give it a try—you’ve got this! Your doors will be secure, and you’ll feel like a DIY hero. Thanks for diving into this with me—here’s to safe homes and new keys!

FAQs

How long does it take to rekey a deadbolt?

It took me 30 minutes. With practice, you can do it in 20-40 minutes.

Do I need a locksmith to rekey a deadbolt?

No, I did it myself with a $15 kit. A locksmith costs $50-$100, but DIY is easy.

Will a rekeying kit work on any deadbolt?

It depends. I got a Schlage kit for my Schlage lock. Match the brand and model.

How much does rekeying a deadbolt cost?

I spent $32 on a kit, key, and tools. A locksmith charges $50-$100 per lock.

Can I use the same key for multiple locks?

Yes, I rekeyed two doors to one key. The kit’s pins let you match them.