What a Full Lock Change Actually Involves
A lock change goes further than a rekey. When you rekey a lock, a technician adjusts the internal pin tumblers so that old keys no longer work — the hardware itself stays in place. A full lock change means removing the existing lock body, strike plate, and any associated hardware entirely, then installing a brand-new unit. This is the right call when the existing lock is worn, has a damaged cylinder, has a compromised keyway from a lost or stolen key, or simply doesn't meet the security grade you want for your home. It's also common when upgrading from builder-grade hardware — the kind installed in many of Rutherford's older two- and three-family homes — to a higher-security Grade 1 deadbolt.
Our technicians work with a range of trusted hardware brands including Schlage, Kwikset, and Medeco, and can walk you through the differences in grade, keyway, and smart-lock compatibility before any work begins. We'll assess your door prep (the bore holes, backset, and door thickness) on the spot to make sure the new hardware fits correctly and operates smoothly from day one.
