This guide covers when replacement makes sense, what types of locks are available, how costs break down, and how to decide between DIY and professional installation.
What Is Lock Replacement
Lock replacement costs anywhere from $50 to $300+ per lock, depending on the hardware you choose and whether you hire a professional. A basic deadbolt sits on the lower end of that range, while smart locks and high-security options push the price higher. If you go with a licensed locksmith, expect to add $50 to $100+ in labor per lock on top of the hardware cost—homeowners typically pay between $107 and $242 for locksmith services.
So what exactly is lock replacement? It's the process of removing your current lock and installing a completely new one in its place. This is different from rekeying, which keeps the same lock body but changes the internal pins so a new key works. With full replacement, you're getting brand-new hardware from the inside out.
Signs You Need to Replace Your Locks
Sometimes the signs are obvious—like a lock that barely turns anymore. Other times, the clues are more subtle. Here are the most common situations where replacement makes sense.
Moving Into a New Home
Think about how many people might have a copy of your current keys. Previous owners, old tenants, real estate agents, contractors, cleaning services, neighbors who watered the plants—the list adds up fast. You simply don't know who has access, and that uncertainty is a security gap. A full lock replacement gives you a fresh start with complete control over every key.
After a Break-In or Attempted Entry
If someone has forced or tampered with your lock, replacement is the safest route—even if the lock still appears to work, especially considering that 55.4% of burglaries involve forcible entry. The internal mechanism may be damaged in ways you can't see from the outside. A lock that looks fine but has weakened components won't protect you the way it once did.
Damaged or Worn Lock Hardware
Your lock gives you warning signs when it's wearing out. Pay attention to:
- Key sticks or won't turn smoothly: The internal pins and springs are likely worn down
- Lock doesn't latch properly: The bolt may not extend fully into the strike plate
- Visible rust or corrosion: Metal degradation weakens the entire mechanism over time
- Loose or wobbly hardware: The lock may no longer be securely mounted to the door
Any of these issues means your lock isn't performing at full strength.
Upgrading to Better Home Security
This one is proactive rather than reactive. Older locks often lack modern security features like bump-resistant pins, reinforced strike plates, or pick-resistant cylinders—door and window locks with security lighting provide 20 times greater protection against burglary than no security measures. If your locks are more than a decade old, newer options offer significantly better protection against common break-in methods.
Types of Door Locks You Can Replace
Not all locks work the same way, and understanding your options helps you pick the right fit for each door in your home.
Deadbolts
The deadbolt is the backbone of home security. Unlike spring-loaded latches, a deadbolt extends a solid metal bolt into the door frame, making it much harder to force open.
You'll find two main types. A single-cylinder deadbolt uses a key on the outside and a thumb turn on the inside—this is the most common setup. A double-cylinder version requires a key on both sides, which adds security but can slow you down in an emergency.
Entry Door Knobs and Levers
These are your standard door handles with built-in locking mechanisms. They're often sold in combination packs with deadbolts so everything matches. On their own, though, knob locks provide minimal security. The locking mechanism sits inside the knob itself, which can be broken off with enough force. They work best as a secondary lock alongside a deadbolt.
Smart Locks and Keyless Entry
Smart locks connect to your home's Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, letting you control access from your phone, while electronic keypad locks offer code-based entry without connectivity requirements. You can lock and unlock remotely, see who's coming and going, and create temporary codes for guests or service providers.
Options include keypads, fingerprint scanners, and app-controlled systems. Brands like Schlage, Kwikset, Yale, and August each offer different features and price points. The trade-off? Smart locks require proper setup and a reliable internet connection to work as intended.
Mortise Locks
Mortise locks are heavy-duty hardware commonly found in older homes and commercial buildings. The lock body fits inside a rectangular pocket—called a mortise—cut into the edge of the door. This design makes them extremely durable, but replacement is more involved than a standard lock swap. Most homeowners call a locksmith for mortise lock work.
Sliding Door and Patio Door Locks
Sliding doors use specialized hardware that's completely different from standard entry locks. Options include handle sets with built-in locks, mortise-style mechanisms designed for sliding panels, and secondary security bars or pins that prevent the door from being forced open along the track.
Replacing vs Rekeying Your Locks
This is one of the most common questions homeowners ask: do I replace the whole lock, or just rekey it?
Rekeying changes the internal pins inside your existing lock so that a new key works and the old keys no longer do. The lock body stays the same. Full replacement, on the other hand, swaps out the entire mechanism for brand-new hardware.
| Factor | Rekeying | Full Replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | New home move-in, lost keys | Damaged locks, security upgrades |
| Hardware | Stays the same | Brand new lock installed |
| Cost | $15–$25+ per lock (labor only) | $75–$300+ per lock (hardware + labor) |
| Time | 10–15 minutes per lock | 20–45 minutes per lock |
Rekeying makes sense when your locks are in good shape but you want new keys. Full replacement is the better choice when you want upgraded security features or your current hardware is worn, damaged, or outdated.
How Much Does Lock Replacement Cost
Factors That Affect Price
Several things influence what you'll pay:
- Lock type: Basic knobs cost less than high-security deadbolts or smart locks
- Labor: Professional installation adds to hardware costs but ensures everything works correctly
- Complexity: Mortise locks or non-standard doors require more time and expertise
- Time of service: Emergency or after-hours calls often include additional fees
Average Costs by Lock Type
Here's what you can typically expect, including professional installation:
- Standard door knob: $75–$150+
- Deadbolt: $100–$200+
- Smart lock: $200–$400+
- Mortise lock: $300–$500+
Keep in mind that prices vary based on the specific hardware you choose and your local market.
DIY Lock Replacement vs Hiring a Professional Locksmith
A basic knob or deadbolt swap can be a straightforward DIY project—if your door already has the right hole sizes and you're comfortable following instructions. Most standard locks come with templates and step-by-step guides.
That said, professional installation makes more sense in certain situations:
- Smart locks that require programming, Wi-Fi configuration, and app setup
- Mortise locks or other complex hardware with precise fitting requirements
- Doors that need new holes drilled or existing holes modified
- Any situation where you want a warranty on the installation work
The risk with improper installation? A lock that doesn't function correctly, damage to your door, or a voided manufacturer warranty. If you're unsure, a quick call to a locksmith can help you decide whether it's a DIY job or one worth handing off.
How to Choose the Right Replacement Lock
Understanding Lock Security Grades
The ANSI/BHMA grading system rates locks based on durability and security performance:
- Grade 1: Highest security, commercial-grade durability—built to withstand heavy use and forced entry attempts
- Grade 2: Solid residential security with good durability—the standard recommendation for exterior doors
- Grade 3: Basic residential, minimal security—better suited for interior doors or low-risk applications
For any door that leads outside, Grade 2 is the minimum level worth considering for proper home security.
Matching Your Door Type and Style
Before you buy anything, grab a tape measure. You'll want to know your door's thickness, the backset (the distance from the door's edge to the center of the lock hole), and the diameter of any existing holes.
Standard backsets are either 2-3/8 inches or 2-3/4 inches, but older doors sometimes have non-standard measurements. Getting these numbers right saves you from buying a lock that doesn't fit.
Smart Lock Compatibility and Features
If you're going the smart lock route, think about how you'll actually use it. Wi-Fi locks let you control access from anywhere, while Bluetooth-only models work within a limited range. Consider app features, integration with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Home, and battery life.
Some smart locks retrofit over your existing deadbolt, which simplifies installation. Others require a full replacement of the lock mechanism.
What to Expect from Professional Lock Replacement Service
When you hire a locksmith, the process typically follows a clear sequence:
- 1Assessment: The technician evaluates your door, frame, and existing hardware
- 2Recommendation: Based on your security goals and budget, they suggest appropriate options
- 3Installation: Proper fitting, alignment, and mounting of the new lock
- 4Verification: Testing the lock from both inside and outside to confirm smooth operation
- 5Cleanup: Removing old hardware and leaving the work area tidy
A quality service comes from licensed and insured technicians who provide upfront pricing before starting work. Warranties on both labor and hardware are also a good sign you're working with a reputable provider.
Get Fast Lock Replacement in Miami
Looking for lock replacement in Miami-Dade County? 305 Locksmith offers:
- 15–30 minute response times across Miami
- Licensed and insured technicians
- Upfront pricing with no hidden fees
- Service throughout Brickell, Coral Gables, Pinecrest, Kendall, and 18+ neighborhoods
- Both emergency and scheduled appointments
Ready to upgrade your home's security? Contact 305 Locksmith today or call (305) 539-0439 for a free estimate.
FAQs About Lock Replacement
How long does it take a locksmith to replace a door lock?
A standard deadbolt or knob replacement typically takes 20–30 minutes. Smart locks or mortise locks may take 45 minutes to an hour, depending on complexity and whether any door modifications are involved.
Can a locksmith replace a lock without changing the entire door?
Yes. Lock replacement only involves the lock hardware itself. Your door, frame, and hinges stay in place unless there's existing damage that also requires repair.
Do I need to replace all the locks in my house at the same time?
Not necessarily. However, replacing or rekeying all locks together ensures one key works for every door. It also eliminates any security gaps from old keys that might still be floating around.
Will a locksmith install a lock I already purchased?
Most locksmiths will install customer-supplied locks. Just keep in mind that they typically warranty only their installation work—not the hardware itself. If the lock has a defect, you'd deal with the manufacturer directly.
Does homeowners insurance cover lock replacement after a break-in?
Coverage varies by policy. Some homeowners policies include lock replacement as part of a break-in damage claim, while others don't. Check with your insurance provider to find out what's covered under your specific plan.