Rekeying changes the internal pins of your existing lock so old keys stop working. The hardware stays; only the key changes. It is faster, cheaper, and the right answer whenever the locks themselves are in good condition — move-ins, staff turnover, breakups, lost keys.
Replacement swaps the entire lock for new hardware. Choose it when locks are worn, damaged, low-grade, or the wrong style for the door — or when you want to upgrade to high-security cylinders or smart locks at the same time.
A good locksmith diagnoses honestly instead of defaulting to replacement. We rekey when rekeying is right, replace when it is not, and we will tell you which one you are looking at before any work begins.