A key snapping in the lock is a common occurrence. It also usually happens at the worst possible time, such as when you’re running late for an important engagement or just want to get inside from the cold.
Aside from the hassle, cost and inconvenience, there’s also the security risk to consider.
If your key has snapped, you may not be able to lock the door, meaning you won’t be able to leave your home or business unattended until it’s resolved.
And while there are several things you may be able to do yourself to extract a broken key from a lock, you’re always better calling on the services of a professional locksmith to ensure you don’t cause any further damage. They’ll also be able to hook you up with a replacement key and ensure everything is working as it should – or fit you a new lock should you need it.
So, if your key snaps in your lock and you’re not sure what to do, read on to find out how you can get help.
Why do keys snap in locks?
Like most everyday items that get lots of use, locks and keys are not immune to wear and tear.
Think about it, if you work in a busy office or live in a home with lots of comings and goings, your locks may get turned dozens of times every week.
Over time, this can place strain on the weaker points of your keys and wear out the delicate mechanisms inside your locks.
While many locks are designed to give years of hassle-free use, they can start to seize up if you don’t look after them by keeping them lubricated and free from dirt or damp.
Stiff locks are the primary cause of snapped keys, so if you notice your key is getting harder to turn, particularly in a Yale-type lock, it’s essential you get it checked out, as it could lead to a snapped key which could be expensive – not to mention a hassle – to replace.
Another reason why keys snap in locks is because of the materials they are made of.
Most keys are made of soft metals, such as brass or nickel. Continued use places strain on certain parts of a key, which can weaken them.
In cold weather, keys can also be more brittle and prone to snapping if the locks offer too much resistance.
Unfortunately, if a key snaps in a lock, it can be a major headache to extract it without causing any further damage to the lock. That’s why prevention is always better than cure.
Keeping your locks maintained and looking out for any increased resistance or pressure when you turn the key will help ensure they are working correctly and minimise the chances of them causing your key to snap.
If you’re concerned about the condition of any of your locks, then giving a professional locksmith like Grays a call is a good place to start. They’ll be able to come out, inspect your locks and recommend any servicing, repairs or maintenance you require.
How to remove a broken key from a lock
If the worst does happen and your key snaps in your lock, don’t panic.
As we mentioned above, an emergency locksmith will have the tools and experience to deal with your problem quickly and efficiently without causing any further damage to your lock.
While we’d always recommend having a professional locksmith sort the problem out for you, if you have trust in your DIY skills, there are a few things you may be able to do to extract a broken key.
If your key has snapped, you may get lucky. If part of the key is protruding from the faceplate, you may be able to prise it out by gripping the end with your fingers or a pair of pliers. Be careful not to push it further in, though.
If it’s a clean break, but there’s nothing to grab onto, then trying to wiggle it out using a small, flathead screwdriver may work, or at least get enough of the key out that you can grab it with your fingers or pliers.
Putting a small blob of superglue on the end of a matchstick and attaching it to the broken part of the key might also help you get a bit of purchase on it. Be very careful here not to get any glue into the lock mechanism, though, as this could cause irreparable damage.
If you have access to one, then a professional key extraction tool, or a set of lockpicks, may also help you get enough of the key out that you can pull it from the mechanism.
And if you can get the lock out of the door, carefully remove it, point the barrel down and try gently tapping it to see if it knocks the key free.
Again, be careful. Locks are extremely delicate pieces of equipment, and too much pressure can cause their mechanisms to fail.
If you do manage to extract the key, don’t use it again. If the blade is intact, a locksmith should be able to cut you a replacement or spare from it, so you won’t need to replace the whole lock.
However, if the lock is faulty and that’s what caused the key to snap, then you may have to swap it. Again, a locksmith will check things over and let you know if you need a repair or a replacement key cutting to prevent the issue from happening again.
Professional Nottingham Locksmith
Grays Locksmiths Nottingham is a member of the Master Locksmiths Association and has been providing professional and trusted locksmith services to the people of Nottinghamshire and its surrounding areas for more than 30 years.
We aim to make all our customers feel safe and secure in their homes and businesses and protect what’s precious to them. We are compliant with BS3621 standards, up to date with current insurance legislation and strive to stay ahead of the curve with all the latest security trends and technologies to ensure you’re always getting the best advice and solutions on the market.
So, if your key snaps in a lock and you’re unsure what to do, get in touch. We’ll be happy to help.
To find out more about our products and services, give us a call on 0115 942 2315 or email enquiries@nottinghamlocksmith.org.uk.