Quick answer: if your locks work fine and you just want the old keys to stop working, you do not need new locks. Rekey them instead. It is cheaper and the locks stay on the door. Replace a lock when it is broken or worn out, when it is a cheap lock you no longer trust, or when you want something different: a keypad, a smart lock, a handleset or a lever. Below are the main options for a front door, what fits your door, and how to tell a good lock from a cheap one.
Rekey or replace?
Rekey when: you just moved in, a roommate or tenant moved out, keys were lost or stolen, or you want every door on one key. Rekeying changes the pins inside the lock so old keys stop working. For a home we charge a $75 service call (it varies a little with distance) plus $25 to $40 per lock, depending on the lock. Most standard knobs, levers and deadbolts are $25. See our rekey page for details.
Replace when: the key sticks or will not turn, the deadbolt does not lock all the way, the lock is loose or damaged after a break-in attempt, the finish is worn out, or you want a different type of lock.
Your front door lock options
Single-cylinder deadbolt
A key outside and a thumb turn inside. This is the standard front door deadbolt and the right choice for most homes. Pair it with a knob or lever for everyday latching.
Double-cylinder deadbolt
Needs a key on both sides. People choose it for doors with glass next to the lock, so nobody can break the glass and reach the thumb turn. The trade-off is getting out in a hurry: in a fire you need the key. Many fire codes discourage them on doors you use to exit, so check before you choose one, and if you do, keep a key near the door.
Knob or lever
This is the part that latches the door. Levers are easier for kids, older family members and anyone carrying groceries, and they look more modern. Either way, the deadbolt is what actually secures the door.
Handleset
The big grip handle you often see on front doors, with a thumb latch, paired with a deadbolt. It looks great, but the door needs an extra hole for the bottom of the handle. If your door is already set up for one, swapping it is simple.
Keypad deadbolt or smart lock
Opens with a code, your phone or a fingerprint, and most still have a backup key. Good for families, landlords and anyone tired of hiding a key outside. We wrote a full guide on this: are smart locks safe?
High-security deadbolt
Uses restricted keys that cannot be copied at a hardware store and a cylinder built to resist picking and drilling. Worth it if you have had a break-in, or if many people have had keys over the years.
How to tell a good lock from a cheap one
Locks are graded by ANSI/BHMA. Grade 1 is the heaviest duty, built for commercial doors and the strongest choice for a home. Grade 2 is solid residential quality. Grade 3 is basic and the first to wear out. For a front door, aim for Grade 2 or better. The grade is usually printed on the box.
The lock is only part of it. A deadbolt is only as strong as the strike plate it locks into, so make sure the strike is held with long screws that reach the framing behind the jamb.
Will it fit my door?
Most homes have standard door holes: a 2-1/8 inch hole for the lock and a backset (the distance from the edge of the door to the center of that hole) of 2-3/8 or 2-3/4 inches. Most new locks adjust to either. Things change if you are switching from a knob to a handleset, or if the old holes were drilled oversized or out of line. We check the door first and tell you before we start.
One key for every door
If you are replacing more than one lock, have them keyed alike so a single key opens the front door, back door and garage entry. We can also rekey the locks you are keeping so everything matches the new ones.
How we handle lock replacement
We come to you anywhere in Phoenix and the Valley. We can supply the lock (Schlage, Kwikset, Yale and other brands) or install one you already bought. We fit it to your door, adjust the strike so the door latches and locks every time, match the keys if you want, and test everything with you before we leave. You get the price on the phone before we drive out. More on our residential locksmith page.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to replace a front door lock?
It depends on the lock you choose and whether we supply it or install yours, so we quote it on the phone. If you only need the old keys to stop working, rekeying is a $75 service call plus $25 to $40 per lock, depending on the lock.
Should I replace or rekey my locks after buying a house?
Rekey, unless the locks are worn out or you want a different style. Rekeying stops every old key from working and costs less.
Can all my locks use the same key?
Yes. New locks can be keyed alike, and existing locks can be rekeyed to match them, as long as they use the same type of keyway.
Will you install a lock I bought myself?
Yes. We install locks you bought, check that they fit your door, and set them up so they work smoothly.
Need a lock replaced or rekeyed in the Valley? Call or text (602) 301-5243, tell us how many doors and what you have now, and we will give you the price before we drive out.