Part 4 – Removing a Broken Key From Your Lock
7. Grab a Pair of Tweezers – Many people immediately grab a pair of tweezers to remove a broken key from a lock; however, if you aren’t careful, they can worsen your situation. You want a pair of tweezers that are thin enough to slide along your key in the lock. Another option is to use the tweezers to grasp a key that is slightly protruding from a lock. This method can help prevent pushing the key further into a lock.
Tweezer can be used as a pair of needle nose pliers. Oftentimes, tweezers are used to help pull the broken key from the lock and prevent the key from further lodging into the lock.
8. Super Glue to the Rescue! – Although this technique is tricky, you can use it if part of the key is out of the lock. If the key is deep in the keyhole, you should not try to use superglue to remove the key.
In addition to super glue, you will need a thin piece of wire, a paperclip, a bobby pin or a match. Place a drop of super glue on the end of the wire or bobby pin and hold it against the edge of the broken key, being careful not to push the key deeper into the lock.
Hold the object against the broken key to ensure the glue has bonded the object and the key together. Read the back of the package or bottle to learn how long bonding takes. Once the objects are bonded, gently pull to remove the key from the door. If the bond breaks before you can completely remove your key, it may hold long enough for you to be able to remove the key with a pair of needle nose pliers or your fingers.
9. A Drill Should Only Be Used as a Last Resort – Although you can remove a broken key from your lock by drilling a hole in the key, it can damage the lock and should only be used when all other techniques have been tried. Instead of trying this method, you should contact a locksmith. Contacting a locksmith is often a more inexpensive and safer option.
If you decide to remove your broken key using a drill, you need a drill bit that is small (1.5mm-2mm or 1/16″-5/64″). The goal is to drill into the side of the key so that you can remove it from the lock. Make sure you are cautious and drill slowly to help avoid damaging your lock. Additionally, make sure that you wear personal protective equipment, including safety glasses and hearing protection anytime you are using power tools.
Other Issues Affecting Keys and Locks
Another common issue is getting a key stuck into the lock without it actually breaking off in the cylinder. When this occurs, there are three different ways to remove the key from the lock. However, you must use care when trying these methods or you could accidentally break off your key into your lock, causing even further issues. Whether you get a key stuck in a lock or break a key in a lock, a locksmith can help.
If you have any questions regarding the array of services provided by our locksmiths at Pop-A-Lock Houston, please feel free to contact us or call 713-722-0060! Click here for the first portion of this article, and, Stay tuned for the next installment!
