observer wrote in message
...
My wood front door has polished brass handleset hardware which uses
the same key as the back door which has an entry knob & single
cylinder deadbolt combo. Since the polished brass is peeled due to
weathering (mostly hot sun), I'm thinking of replacing it with the
same (if possible) but if I replace both front and back door hardware
simultaneously, can I get one key for all (like the old ones are) or
do I need to get a locksmith to rekey both doors to use one key? I
don't know if I can buy a complete front/back door hardware set
similar to the existing in one package so that they share a key?

If I need a locksmith, any idea what this costs? Maybe not worth the
cost for the convenience of one key?

The major brands (Kwikset, Schlage, etc) sell pairs of hardware keyed the
same. For the least amount of work, you should try and stick with the same
brand so you don't need to get involved with any more wood cutting. Even
within brands, different models might require different hole sizes &
placement, so you might want to remove your hardware, measure, and then call
manufacturers to match up which NEW units will fit without cutting wood. You
still might need to do a little chiseling or filing, but that's usually
minor.

If you can't find same-key pairs in one package, some hardware stores can
re-key one of the locks to match the other. That cost me $20.00 last year,
including extra keys. This is a good reason to buy from a hardware store,
not Home Depot or Lowe's.

More info at www.kwikset.com and www.schlage.com. By the way, this is not a
situation where you want to be a cheapskate and try to save money. If one
model is $20 and a better one is $30, from the same manufacturer, dish out
the extra.