Rekey vs. Replace: What’s Right for Your Central Texas Home or Business?

A Common Dilemma for Home & Business Owners

Whether you’ve just moved into a house near Killeen or your Fort Hood-area business has seen staff changes, the question often comes up: should you rekey your locks or replace them entirely?

It’s not just about cost, it’s about your long-term security, convenience, and risk level. At Brock’s Lock & Key, we help homeowners and businesses across Central Texas make informed decisions that balance safety and budget.

What is Rekeying?

Rekeying means keeping your current lock hardware but changing the internal mechanism so old keys no longer work. It’s a quick and affordable solution for improving access control.

Benefits of Rekeying:

• Lower cost than full replacement

• Faster to complete

• Keeps your existing door hardware appearance

• Ideal when locks are still in good condition

When to Rekey:

• You just moved and want a clean slate

• You’ve lost a key or had one unaccounted for

• Your business had employee turnover

• You trust the existing lock but want new access control

What Does Lock Replacement Involve?

Replacing a lock means removing the existing system and installing brand-new hardware. This could mean upgrading to high-security deadbolts, commercial locks, or even digital keypads.

Reasons to Replace Locks:

• Existing hardware is worn, broken, or outdated

• You want a security upgrade (high-security locks or access systems)

• You’re changing how the door functions (e.g., adding a smart lock)

• Your business now requires tighter access protocols

When Replacement Makes Sense:

• The current lock is damaged or compromised

• You want higher security standards (especially for commercial lock services in Fort Hood)

• Aesthetic or technological upgrades are part of the plan

Rekey vs. Replace – What’s the Difference?

Here’s a quick side-by-side breakdown:

• Cost: Rekeying is usually cheaper up front

• Time: Rekeying is faster to complete

• Security: Replacing allows for upgraded hardware and tighter access

• Flexibility: Replacement gives you future upgrade options

• Appearance: Rekeying keeps existing hardware; replacement updates the look

Real Case: Copperas Cove Business Upgrade

A small manufacturing business in Copperas Cove had several former employees with key access. Their door hardware was also worn down.

Our recommendation? Replace locks with high-security commercial deadbolts, then rekey the master system for authorized staff only.

"Clear communication and expert installation. We now know exactly who has access, no more guessing." — Facilities Manager, Copperas Cove

Why Trust Brock’s Lock & Key?

• Veteran-owned and operated

• Fully licensed by the Texas Department of Private Security (#B18916)

• Member of the Texas Locksmith Association

• Residential and commercial expertise across Killeen, Fort Hood, Harker Heights, Belton, and beyond

Whether you need help deciding between rekeying locks in Central Texas or planning a full lock replacement in Killeen TX, we’re here to help.

Make the Right Call for Your Security

Don’t leave your property’s access control to guesswork. We’ll provide a tailored recommendation that fits your goals, risk level, and budget.

? Call Brock’s Lock & Key or book your free on-site lock evaluation today.
Let us help you choose the right path, whether that’s a smart rekey or a full lock replacement.