Home lock calculator
Keyed-Alike vs. Keyed-Different Planner
Balance convenience with separated access for different people and entry points.
Result
Key groups needed
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Cylinders to replace for one keyway
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Locks on the shared key
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Formula
Calculation logicA locksmith must confirm that the lock brands and cylinder formats can be keyed alike.
Rekey, Keyed-Alike, and Key Control
Rekey beats replace when hardware is sound
Rekeying (~$25 per cylinder) wins whenever the lock operates smoothly and cylinders share a keyway. Replace the full set when hardware is damaged, forced, or corroded, and replace cylinders first when brands are mixed.
Run two key groups at most
One shared key for convenience areas, one restricted key for rentals, offices, and utility rooms. Lost keys and tenant turnover force an immediate rekey before new copies go out. Log every key by person and date; collect all copies on move-out.
Verify before you buy
- List brands and keyways first
- Keep rentals on separate keys
- Review groups after tenant change