In our everyday life we’re dealing with locks and keys on a common basis but what happens when a key breaks inside a lock? This situation can be very inconvenient frustrating and probably raise questions about the reasons and the steps to take.
This article will provide answers about why keys break in locks, exploring the best methods for removal, estimating the time it might take and considering options when you don’t have a spare key.
Why Do Keys Break In Locks?
Most common reason for keys to break inside locks is excessive force. Over time repeated use can cause small fractures on key causing damage to its structure and if a key is made from lower quality materials it becomes more susceptible to breaking and by applying too much force while turning the key especially if it’s stuck or the lock mechanism is jammed it can cause the key to snap.
Environmental factors such as corrosion from moisture or extreme temperatures can also make to the key weak and fragile, also a poorly cut or terrible duplicate may increase the option of breaking.
What are my options?
When facing a situation when your key breaks inside the lock your options can depend on the few thongs:
Assessment
Take a good look at the lock and assess how much of the key is stuck inside the lock and whether any part is sticking out.
Tools are necessary
Check in your toolbox if you have a needle nose plier or a small jigsaw blade which are required to oull out the broken piece.
Handyman Skills
A certain level of ability to work with tools is required to deal with these situations and if you’re not confident enough it is better to get professional help.
Lock Type
Standard door lock are easier to deal with but high security locks will need a different approaches and a professional locksmith to hadle it. If it is an emergency, we recommend calling a locksmith immediately.
How Long Will It Take To A Locksmith To Remove A Broken Key?
It will take porfessional locksmith about 30 minutes to an hour to extract a broken key out of the lock but it really depends on his experience and the condition of the lock to begin with. If the key just broke into 2 pieces and the broken piece that is stuck inside the kock is accessible, the process can be done quicker.
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