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What to Do If Your Key Breaks Inside the Lock

Dixie Safe & Lock Service Inc. • August 22, 2018

Broken Key — Houston, TX — Dixie Safe & Lock Service Inc.
If you’ve ever heard the fatal snap of your key breaking inside your front door lock, you know the feeling of sheer panic and frustration that comes over you when you realize you can’t get back into your home. Though being locked out is unnerving, there’s no need to panic. There are several simple ways to remove the key yourself.

Before You Begin

Initially, many people try using the top half of the key to open the lock even after it’s busted. Though it sounds like a good idea in theory, the reality is the farther you push the broken piece into the lock, the more difficult it will be to remove.

It’s important to emphasize that each situation is different, and you may have to use trial and error to determine which method will work best for your situation.

Key Removal With Household Objects

If you have a bookbag or purse with you, chances are you have the tools you need for key removal even if you don’t have time to run to the hardware store.

Wire

This approach is all about finesse and technique. You’ll first want to find two objects that are small enough to slide along either side of the key, such as:
  • Two pieces of stiff wire
  • Bobby pins
  • Safety pins
  • Other similar objects
Once both items are in place, put pressure on the key by turning your wrists inward and then pulling toward you. It may take a few tries, but with each attempt, the key should stick farther out and allow you to tug it the rest of the way using your fingers or pliers.

Scissors

It’s not the ideal method of extracting a fragmented key, but it will get the job done if it’s all you have access to. If you happen to have multiple pairs to choose from, scissors with smaller blades will work best. You can use your scissors in one of two ways depending on how jammed the key is.

If the key is already slightly protruding from the keyhole, you can open the scissors slightly and fit the two tips at the top and bottom of the key. Clamp down gently until the scissors have closed on the fragment and carefully pull back. After a few attempts, you should be able to edge the key out far enough to take hold and fully remove it.

In the second method, open the scissor blades and hold them near the screw. Slide one blade along the side of the key. Apply pressure to the key and slowly pull outward. Depending on how wedged the key is, it may take a lot of time and repetition, but it should get the job done.

Key Removal With Tools

Don’t have any useful household items at your disposal? Don’t worry! A quick run to your local hardware store can provide you with everything you need to get that key unstuck.

Lubricant and Saw

To begin, give the lock a quick spray of lubricant to make it as easy as possible to slide the key out. Insert a thin piece of saw blade into the keyway, making sure the blade teeth are pointing toward the back of the lock. Slide the blade along the thinner side of the key shaft and twist the blade to grab onto the key.

Once you achieve a sturdy grip, try sliding the key out of the lock. As you get it closer to the edge, you should be able to use needle nose pliers or tweezers to pluck the key all the way out.

Don't Have Time for DIY Key Removal?

At Dixie Safe & Lock Service Inc., we understand that your busy schedule might not leave time for you to try out these methods for yourself. We also realize how important it is that you feel safe in your home. That’s why we provide a full suite of locksmith services for Southeast Texas residents and business owners. Whether you need a re-key or emergency service, you can count on Dixie Safe & Lock Service Inc.

Experience the Dixie difference for yourself today by contacting us online or calling (713) 643-5767 for 24/7 locksmith services!
Number First Name Last Name Email Address
1 Anne Evans anne.evans@mail.com
2 Bill Fernandez bill.fernandez@mail.com
3 Candice Gates candice.gates@mail.com
4 Dave Hill dave.hill@mail.com
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