When it comes to home upgrades, rekeying locks offers a sustainable solution that too often gets overlooked. While we’re all for composting, energy-saving bulbs, and upcycled furniture, the humble door lock often goes unnoticed—until it doesn’t work or you’re locked out. That’s when many homeowners assume they need to replace their entire lock system. But here’s the twist: most of the time, you don’t.

Rekeying locks is a simple, budget-friendly, and yes—eco-conscious alternative. It’s a form of invisible upcycling, giving your existing hardware a fresh purpose without adding to landfill waste. And if you’ve recently moved, lost a key, or just want peace of mind without trashing perfectly good materials, it might just be the smarter choice.

It’s something a skilled locksmith in Salt Lake City is seeing more demand for lately—homeowners choosing rekeying over full replacement not just to save money, but to reduce waste and get more mileage out of what they already have.

Let’s break down why rekeying locks deserves a spot on your “green living” checklist.

What Does It Actually Mean to Rekey a Lock?

Let’s clear up a common confusion: rekeying isn’t just getting a new key cut. It’s a process where a locksmith changes the internal pins inside your lock so that an old key no longer works—and only your new key will.

The outer hardware stays exactly the same. No need to remove the lock, toss the deadbolt, or buy a new handle set. Think of it like changing the combination to a lockbox instead of replacing the box itself. It’s security upcycling at its finest.

Here’s what a locksmith typically does during rekeying:

• Removes the lock cylinder from the handle or deadbolt
• Replaces the pins inside the cylinder with a new configuration
• Cuts new keys to match that updated setup
• Installs everything back into place—just as secure, now with a fresh key

It takes less time, creates less waste, and costs significantly less than a full replacement.

When Rekeying Locks Just Makes More Sense

Rekeying isn’t just about sustainability. It’s also about practicality. Here’s when it’s the obvious go-to:

1. You’ve Just Moved In
   Even if the previous owners or tenants were lovely, you never really know how many spare keys are floating around. Realtors, dog walkers, old roommates—who knows? Rekeying gives you instant control over your new home’s security without sending usable hardware to the landfill.
2. You’ve Lost a Key
   If there’s a chance someone could find your lost key and trace it to your home, rekeying is the fast-track to peace of mind. It’s better than replacing every doorknob just because a key vanished in a parking lot.
3. You Want a Master Key
   Got five exterior doors and a separate key for each one? A locksmith can rekey them all to match one master key—minimalist, efficient, and easier on your keychain.
4. You’re Renting Out Your Property
   Landlords, take note: changing locks between tenants is crucial, but replacing them every time adds up. Rekeying is the faster, more sustainable way to keep everyone safe without churn-and-burn hardware turnover.

Why Rekeying Locks Is a Greener Choice

Every lock you toss adds to metal waste—brass, steel, plastic housings—and requires energy to manufacture and ship replacements. It’s a lot for something that doesn’t actually need to be replaced.

Rekeying locks, on the other hand:

• Keeps hardware in circulation longer
• Avoids emissions tied to manufacturing and transporting new locks
• Prevents excess packaging waste (those clamshells are the worst)
• Uses basic hand tools—not power tools or harsh adhesives

In a culture that’s quick to throw away and buy new, rekeying is refreshingly low-waste. It’s like fixing a button instead of tossing the whole shirt.

What About Smart Locks?

You might be wondering: if I’ve got a smart lock, does rekeying still apply? Sometimes—yes.

Many smart locks still have physical key cylinders, especially hybrid models. These can often be rekeyed just like traditional locks. If your smart lock is entirely keyless, you still have options like resetting codes or disabling digital keys remotely. A knowledgeable locksmith can guide you through it.

Bonus: Some newer locks come with DIY rekeying kits, but professional service is recommended for best results.

Rekeying vs. DIY Lock Changes: Why It’s Worth It

Yes, you can change out locks yourself. And yes, you can buy rekey kits. But there’s value in getting it done right.

A certified locksmith can:

• Rekey multiple locks to one key (even if they’re different brands)
• Spot worn or compromised parts before they fail
• Offer expert insight into strengthening home security
• Save you time—and the headache of tiny pins rolling under the fridge

It’s not just about convenience. It’s about applying circular thinking to your home’s security.

Are Your Locks Rekeyable?

Most standard locks are. This includes:

• Deadbolts
• Doorknobs
• Lever handles
• Padlocks (some models)

If your locks are very old or worn, replacement might be necessary—but many can be rekeyed. Brands like Kwikset and Schlage are especially known for this.

Choosing the Right Locksmith

Not all locksmiths prioritize sustainability, but companies like All Hour Locksmith in Salt Lake City are shifting the narrative.

Look for locksmiths who:

• Offer rekeying as a core service
• Understand both smart and traditional systems
• Don’t push unnecessary hardware sales
• Have experience across multiple brands

It’s not just about access—it’s about trust and long-term thinking.

Bonus Tip: What to Do With Old Keys

If you end up with old keys, don’t trash them:

• Drop them at a metal recycler (yes, they’re recyclable!)
• Donate to maker spaces or art supply programs
• Turn them into wind chimes, wall hooks, or keychains

Small things, big difference.

Final Thoughts: Rekeying Locks = Security With a Conscience

Rekeying locks might not be the flashiest home improvement, but it’s one of the smartest—and greenest—moves you can make. You keep your home safe, save money, and prevent waste.

So before you head to the hardware store for replacements, pause. Ask a trusted locksmith about rekeying. Think of it as the upcycled security fix your home didn’t know it needed.

It’s not about doing less. It’s about doing smarter. Your future self (and the planet) will thank you.