Have you ever had the misfortune of having your key break off inside the lock? If so, you know how frustrating this can be. But don’t worry; there are steps you can take to get that broken key out and get on with your day. In this blog, we’ll do our best to teach you how to get a broken key out of a lock!
Taking preventive measures to protect your home’s locks and keys is vital to keeping your premises safe and secure. One way to reduce the chance of broken keys getting stuck in the lock is to ensure that you lubricate the lock regularly; this will help ensure the safety moves smoothly when turning the key, thus leading to fewer problems, such as bent or broken keys. Additionally, if you realize that your key is starting to become worn with use, it is likely time to replace it! That way, you can be sure that your key will stay intact inside the lock system’s moving door parts or tumblers.
You may be in luck if part of the key is sticking out! If so, try using the following methods:
How to get a broken key out of a lock with tweezers
Using tweezers or pliers, you can get the key out. Pull gently and with a steady force to avoid damaging the object it’s stuck in. Be mindful that you don’t damage the key either by tugging too hard or bending as you pull it free. Careful maneuvering can ensure that you, your object, and your lost key can all make it out victorious!
Use a key extractor
Insert the key extractor into the lock. Depending on the type of key extractor you have, this may involve inserting it into the keyway or attaching it to the lock another way.
Turn the key extractor handle or lever. Doing this will apply pressure to the key and cause it to loosen or pop out of the lock.
Remove the key from the lock. Once the key is loose, you should be able to pull it out of the lock simply. If the key does not come out easily, you may need to try different angles or apply more pressure with the key extractor. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this could damage the lock or the key extractor. Once you have successfully extracted the key, you can use it to unlock the lock or make a copy of it if necessary.
How to get a broken key out of a lock using glue
Gather the materials you will need. You will need strong, fast-drying glue, such as super glue or epoxy glue. You will also need something small and thin to use as a handle for the broken key, such as a matchstick or a piece of wire.
Apply the glue to the broken piece of the key. Use enough glue to cover the fractured portion and create a strong bond fully. Attach the handle to the glued key part; you can do this by pressing the handle against the glue or by applying more glue to the handle and attaching it to the key piece.
Once the glue is dry, carefully insert the handle into the lock and try to wiggle the key piece free gently. You may need to apply slight pressure or twisting motion to help loosen the key part from the lock. If the key does not come free, you may need to use more force or try a different angle. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this could damage the lock or the key.
Check out this video for visual comprehension!
If none of these methods works and no part of the key is visible inside the lock, then you may have to resort to more extreme measures, such as using a flathead screwdriver small enough to fit into the keyhole. By inserting it in the lock carefully and levering gently, you can loosen or move around whatever is blocking the mechanism until it releases. If all else fails, then contacting an experienced locksmith may be necessary—but they may not always be able to get it out without damaging your lock or door frame—so tread carefully!
Conclusion
Breaking keys off in locks can be extremely frustrating—especially if they were expensive ones! Thankfully, there are steps that one can take to remove them without having to call on an expert every single time. We hope you you found this post informative and that you know now how to get a broken key out of a lock, but if everything else fails, please contact an experienced professional locksmith like us who can help you out! Luckily for you, we’re experts in dealing with those pesky keys, we provide reliable residential services, so whenever you face an issue of this sort, we are just a call away!
