Get matched with top locksmiths in Kiowa, OK

Expect to pay between $50 to $200 if you hire a locksmith to change your locks. That figure includes labor and the cost of basic hardware. The cost will naturally be higher if you plan to install more expensive locks, like smart locks, and if you need a lot of them.

Homeowners can save money by replacing locks themselves. A typical rekeying kit costs about $10 to $25. The only additional cost is purchasing new house keys, and those are no more than a few dollars per key. If you want to replace the locks on your own completely, the main cost is the price of the locks themselves. A standard knob-style lock starts around $25, while electronic locks and smart locks will run in the hundreds of dollars. The only additional tools you should need are a tape measure, screwdriver, and screws if they are not already provided.

Many local hardware stores have the equipment to copy basic keys at a low cost. Some locations may have freestanding machines where you can pick out a blank and insert it and your original key into the duplicating machine.

Newer, electric-powered door locks generally have a life span of five years or less. That’s thanks, in large part, to a phenomenon called planned obsolescence, in which products are programmed to need replacing after a certain amount of time. That’s also why older, manual, push-key locksets can last up to 30 years with regular cleanings and maintenance. When it does come time for a new set-up, know that the cost to change locks ranges from $130 to $500 on average.

In general, keyless door locks are considered safe. They can’t be picked like a traditional lock, and unless a thief can guess your code, it’s pretty tricky to break into a house with a keyless door lock. But that doesn’t mean they come without risk. 

When asking yourself, "Are keyless door locks safe?” consider the style of the system. Hackers could potentially break in if it operates on Wi-Fi, but it’d take some time and effort. You’re also at risk for a power outage, depending on the type of lock. That being said, there are no more risks associated with keyless door locks than a traditional lock.