In this blog, the professional Myrtle Beach broken lock extraction service team here at Myrtle Beach Locksmith will detail what to do if your key broke off inside of your lock.
Why do keys sometimes break off inside locks?
Keys are often made of soft metals like nickel and brass. When keys get damaged by general wear and tear over time, or when locks are jammed or don’t have adequate lubrication, keys can easily accidentally partially or fully snap off inside a lock.
What should I do after my key snapped off inside my lock?
Make sure that any broken keys in your lock are professionally addressed as soon as possible. Broken pieces of keys can actually damage the lock mechanism itself. If the key broke off before the door was fully shut, you will be unable to lock the door, leaving you vulnerable to crime. If the key broke off after the door was locked, you might not be able to open the door until a professional remedies it. Contact an expert locksmith team like our Myrtle Beach broken key extraction service for pro-assistance.
Does lock type make a difference with broken key extraction?
Yes! Removing a broken key from your lock is not necessarily straightforward, and has a different technique attached to different locks.s tandard pin tumbler locks, like the locks often found in residential doors, involve key extraction techniques that utilize lock tapping, a key extractor tool, or a saw blade. Other locks like car locks, smart locks, or biometric locks might require even more advanced techniques – and padlocks and tubular locks similarly require a range of different techniques.
What tools are often used for broken key extraction?
- Key Extractor Tools – These are used to remove fragments of broken keys that cannot be pulled out with magnets or needle-nose pliers. They are made from a thin piece of strong metal with a hook or spiral design at the end that can grip onto the broken piece of the key, using the key serrations to leverage it outside of the lock.
- Saw Blade Key Extraction – This involves the insertion of a small saw blade into the lock cylinder, and aligning it with the serrated teeth of the key to carefully pull it out. This should only be used as a last resort as it can damage the lockset itself.
How can I prevent broken keys?
We recommend keeping your keyhole lubricated with a silicone based lubricant every half a year, or when you notice too much friction or grinding when you lock the door. We also recommend making copies made of your keys and throwing out (securely) old keys when they start to get very worn out.