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Rekeying locks is a crucial security measure for small businesses. It involves changing the internal pins of a lock so that it works with a new key, without replacing the entire lock. This process offers significant cost and time savings compared to lock replacement.
Why Rekeying Is Important for Small Businesses
Small businesses often face security challenges, especially when employees leave or keys are lost. Rekeying provides a quick way to restrict access and enhance security without the expense of installing new locks.
Cost Benefits of Rekeying
Rekeying is generally much cheaper than replacing entire locks. The cost typically ranges from $30 to $50 per lock, plus the price of new keys. In contrast, replacing locks can cost hundreds of dollars per door, including labor costs.
Time Savings with Rekeying
Rekeying is a quick process that can often be completed within 15 to 30 minutes per lock. This allows business owners to secure their premises promptly, minimizing downtime and disruption to daily operations.
Steps in the Rekeying Process
- Remove the lock from the door.
- Disassemble the lock to access the cylinder.
- Replace the pins inside the cylinder with new ones matching the new key.
- Reassemble the lock and test with the new key.
- Reinstall the lock on the door.
When to Consider Rekeying
Rekeying is recommended after employee turnover, lost keys, or security breaches. It is also a good practice to rekey periodically to maintain security integrity.
Conclusion
Rekeying locks offers a cost-effective and time-efficient way for small businesses to enhance security. By understanding the process and benefits, business owners can make informed decisions to protect their assets and ensure peace of mind.