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Mistakes to Avoid When Attempting Broken Key Extraction

Broken Key Extraction in Albany, CA

A key getting broken in a lock can be frustrating, but it is a common problem. It can be a real headache no matter if it was your car, home or office’s lock.  Most commonly the keys break due to excessive force being applied when turning them, but there are many other causes. Broken Key Extraction might seem like a simple task that you can do yourself. Well, we hate to break it to you, but it isn’t. Many people make mistakes that can further damage the lock and leave you with a bigger bill.

In this article, we’ll discuss why keys break in locks, common mistakes to avoid getting a broken key out of a lock and some tips for safely removing the broken keys.

Why Do Keys Break in a Lock?

Before we discuss the specifics of getting a key out of a broken lock, it is important to look at why the situation arose in the first place. Here are some common issues that cause the keys to break in a lock.

  • Key Conditions

Keys are made of metals and naturally wear down over time. They can be weakened at the stress points due to the pressure they face when a key is turned. If your key is showing signs of bends, chips or thinning, it might be more prone to breaking in a lock.

If your key has been exposed to water or there are humid conditions, rust can develop on the keys. The rust can significantly damage the key and increase the chances of it breaking while being turned in a lock.

  • Key Material

Keys made from soft metals like brass, nickel or silver may wear out pretty quickly. Durable materials last much longer than soft metals but eventually all kinds of materials have a certain period.

  • Excessive Force

It is the most common reason for the keys breaking down in the locks. If you’re running late, you often turn the key quickly with excessive force. This force can break the key in the lock.

  • Lock Malfunction

A malfunctioning lock is a very common reason for broken keys. A lock that does not work smoothly, puts extra stress on the key and can cause it to break.

  • Lack of Lubrication

Locks need to be lubricated to reduce friction and make sure the key turns smoothly. If a lock isn’t lubricated enough, it can cause a key to break due to friction.

Read More: Choosing Between Lock Replacement and Rekeying

Things to Avoid When Attempting a Broken Key Extraction

If you have got your key broken in a lock, it might be tempting to just try and pull the key out yourself. While it might seem like a cost-effective option, it can cause more harm than good. Here are some common mistakes you should avoid in this situation:

  • Avoid Forcing the Key Out

First thing first, do not apply excessive force to get the key out. Applying too much force with pliers or some other tools will further push the broken piece in the lock. It can bend the key in the lock and cause damage to the internal components of the lock. It can make the matter so worse that you’ll need to get the lock replaced.

  • Don’t Use Super Glue

Using super glue as a quick fix for putting the key back together can backfire significantly. The glue can seep into the lock’s mechanism and removing the broken key will become impossible. If the glue gets a hold on the lock’s components, there is no solution except replacing the lock.

  • Stay Away from Improvised Tools

Paper Clips or bobby pins might seem like a good tool for getting the key out in this situation. However, they aren’t fit for this task and can break in internal components of the lock. It can cause further complications. So, don’t use any improvised tools. Only use specialized tools built for broken key extraction.

  • Don’t Do Over Lubrication

While a small amount of lubricants can help loosen the broken key, overdoing it can cause problems. Internal components of the lock can become sticky and attract dust and debris which will jam the lock.

  • Pay Attention to Key Positioning

Before you try extracting the key, make sure the lock is in the same position as when the key broke. If you try to extract the key while it’s turned, you can risk misaligning the pins inside the lock. It can cause further complications, and you might need to call a professional locksmith.

  • Don’t Try to Do it All Yourself

While it is not bad to give a few tries to get the key out yourself, forcing the key to come out will make the problem worse. After a few tries, it’s best to leave the matter to the professional locksmiths. They have the specialized tools and knowledge to remove the key without further damaging your lock. They’ll also make you a new key for the lock mostly on the spot.

Call Professional Locksmiths for Broken Key Extraction

While DIY methods surely look tempting to try, they can do more harm than good. Attempting to get a broken key out of a lock without proper tools or knowledge can damage your lock beyond repair. Professional locksmiths have the right tools and expertise for broken key extraction without causing more damage to the lock. Call a professional locksmith to save your time, frustration and the potential cost of a full lock replacement.

At Multi-Locksmiths, we are committed to resolving your lock issues with the care and precision you deserve. Our team of expert locksmiths makes sure your locks do not get damaged, and the broken key is extracted safely. Don’t risk further damage to your locks — let the professional locksmiths at Multi-Locksmiths handle it for you. Contact us today and get your lock in a perfect condition in no time!