Lost your only set of keys? We can rekey your existing lock cylinder using our specialized tools.
Professional Lock Rekeying Services in Chicago
Rekeying your locks is a practical way to secure your property without replacing entire lock hardware. At Quick Key Locksmith & Security, we provide expert rekeying services for homes, offices, and commercial properties throughout Chicago and nearby suburbs. Whether you’re adjusting access after a move, updating building security, or managing employee turnover, our professional locksmith services help you maintain control and reduce risk.
We service standard locks, smart locks with mechanical key overrides, and commercial-grade cylinders. Our rekeying process involves replacing the pins inside the existing lock cylinder to work with a brand new key, making the old key unusable. This method is reliable, secure, and cost-effective.
How the Rekeying Process Works
Rekeying starts by removing the lock from the door and disassembling the cylinder. Our expert locksmiths use specialized rekeying tools to remove the cylinder plug, replace the old pins with new ones of different lengths, and fit a replacement key to the new pin setup. We then reassemble and reinstall the lock, verifying that the new key operates smoothly.
This service is ideal for updating a single door or synchronizing multiple compatible locks to open with one key, reducing key clutter and improving convenience.
When to Rekey Your Locks
Rekeying is recommended under several common conditions:
- You recently moved into a new home, apartment, or business space
- A keyholder—like a tenant, employee, or roommate—no longer needs access
- Keys have been lost or stolen
- You want to streamline multiple locks to work with the same key
- You want to upgrade access control without replacing all hardware
We recommend rekeying whenever you’re unsure how many copies of a key may be in circulation.
Residential and Commercial Rekeying
For homeowners and renters, we rekey front doors, garage entry locks, interior privacy locks, and side entrances. If your home’s locks are the same brand and model, we can often configure them to work with a single key.
Business owners use our rekeying services to manage access for employees, vendors, or security teams. We service retail storefronts, offices, multi-unit buildings, and warehouse doors. We can also set up master key systems for role-based access while reducing the total number of keys in use.
Smart Lock Rekeying Options
Some smart locks with mechanical override cylinders can also be rekeyed. Our technicians evaluate your model for compatibility and rekey where supported. This gives you added peace of mind when managing electronic access systems alongside traditional keys.
Cost-Effective Alternative to Door Lock Replacement
If your door locks are in good condition, rekeying is a more affordable alternative to full replacement. It offers the same level of access control without the cost of new hardware or extensive labor. Our locksmiths assess the condition of your lock, verify brand compatibility, and recommend whether rekeying or full replacement is the better option.
Mobile and Walk-In Rekeying Services
We offer rekeying at our Wheaton and Elk Grove Village storefronts during business hours. Mobile service is also available across Chicago, including Lincoln Park, West Loop, Oak Brook, and Schaumburg. Our technicians arrive with tools, parts, and key blanks ready to complete the job at your home or business.
Secure Your Property with Rekeying from Quick Key
Quick Key Locksmith & Security helps homeowners and business managers across Chicago regain control of access with affordable, dependable rekeying service. Whether you’re adjusting keys after a move or rekeying an entire facility, we ensure each lock functions smoothly and securely. Contact us or visit our Wheaton or Elk Grove Village locations to schedule your lock rekeying service.
FAQs About Rekeying Locks in Chicago
Can I rekey all my locks to work with the same key?
Yes, we can rekey multiple locks to operate with one key, as long as the locks are the same brand or use compatible lock cylinders. This is a common request for homeowners and business managers who want easier access across multiple doors.
What’s the difference between rekeying and replacing locks?
Rekeying changes the internal pins inside your existing lock cylinder so it accepts a new key. Replacing locks involves removing the entire lock mechanism and installing a new unit. Rekeying is more affordable when the current locks are in good condition.
Can smart locks be rekeyed?
Some smart locks include a mechanical key override that can be rekeyed. We’ll inspect the lock type and cylinder plug to determine if your smart lock is compatible with our rekeying process.
How long does a standard lock rekeying take?
We offer key duplication for many high-security residential and commercial keys. Some restricted keys may require proof of ownership or manufacturer authorization. Our team will let you know if your key can be duplicated or if key replacement options are available instead.
Should I rekey my locks after moving into a new home?
Yes. Lock rekeying is one of the best ways to improve a new house’s security. It ensures no old keys from previous residents can be used to access your property. This is a smart step whether you’re moving into a condo, house, or rental unit.
Can you rekey commercial and high-traffic door locks?
Absolutely. Our locksmith service includes rekeying commercial-grade lock cylinders used in storefronts, offices, and warehouses. We also rekey entry doors and can help set up a master key system for added control.
What if I lost my key? Can you still rekey locks in this case?
Yes, but it depends on the lock type. We can often use professional locksmith tools to remove the lock cylinder and complete the rekeying process without the original key. If the cylinder is damaged, we may recommend lock replacement.
Can I set up a master key system during rekeying?
Yes. We can configure compatible locks to work with both individual keys and a master key. This is a popular option in offices and multi-unit buildings, streamlining access while maintaining control over individual areas.
What should I bring for a walk-in rekey service?
Please bring the current key and the entire lock (if removable). This will allow us to inspect the lock cylinder, determine the pin layout, and match it with a new key using the correct rekeying tools and pins.