As a locksmith, one of the most common jobs we are tasked with is rekeying. To understand how rekeying works, you must first understand how the average pin-tumbler lock operates. A pin-tumbler lock works by using different size cuts in a key to raise pins within the lock to a specific height allowing them to pass freely along what is known as the sheer line. Most commercially available locks will have 5 or 6 “pin stacks”. Each pin stack consists of 3 main components, a spring, a top pin, and a bottom pin. The number of pin stacks inside of a lock will, in most instances, match the number of cuts on the corresponding key.

What do we actually do when we rekey a lock?

 When a locksmith performs a rekey, they are changing out the existing bottom pins of the pin stack for other pins of a known height. By knowing and controlling the size of every new pin inside the lock, the locksmith can then generate a new key. Since the heights of the bottom pins have been altered and the sheer line has been changed, any previously functioning keys will be 100% inoperable for locks that have been rekeyed.

 Often customers will find themselves purchasing a beautiful new home with high quality locks and hardware. However, who knows who may also have a key to that new-to-you house. In addition, with rekeying services offered by qualified and trained locksmiths, we can preserve your existing locks and hardware while still offering you piece of mind. Finally, with a professional rekey service and a trusted name as red key llc, you can be assured of who has the keys to what’s important to you.

Below, you can see how the process is done. Red Key LLC can rekey all type of residential and commercial locks except high security cylinders. Call us today for more information.