Is your key snapped off in the lock? Clapham Locksmith London will be there for you! Get in touch with our experts, and we will offer the best solutions in minutes. Have you ever had a key snap in a lock?
About Our Locksmiths
We’ve all been there—standing at the door, ready to head inside, and suddenly, snap! Your key breaks off in the lock. Frustrating? Absolutely. But don’t panic! There are several ways to safely remove the broken key and get back inside without damaging your lock. Whenever you need help, you can get in touch, and our team will be ready for you.
Get in touch, and we will offer the best locksmith solutions in minutes! We are prepared to assist you around the clock with 24/7 locksmiths and emergency services.
Why Do Keys Break in Locks?
Are you wondering why this is happening? We are prepared to offer the best solutions anytime you don’t know what to do. Keys can break anytime, no matter what time it is. For situations like this, we are ready to come and help.
Understanding why keys break can help you avoid future mishaps. Get in touch, and let us assist you with 24/7 solutions. Our experts are prepared to help with all types of locks and security levels.
Most Common Causes
More than just an annoyance, a broken key frequently indicates a problem with the lock, the key, or the way they are being used. Let’s examine the most frequent causes of keys snapping inside locks and discuss ways to prevent this from happening in the future.
Here are the most common causes:
Wear and Tear
Over time, metal fatigue weakens keys, making them more prone to snapping. Just like anything made of metal, keys degrade over time. Every time you insert and turn your key, tiny amounts of metal wear away. Over the years, this weakens the structure, making the key more likely to snap under pressure.
Signs Your Key is Worn Out:
- The key looks thinner or smoother than when it was new.
- The edges are rounded instead of sharp.
- The grooves are shallow, making it harder for the lock to grip.
- The key bends slightly when pressure is applied.
Using Excessive Force
If your key isn’t turning smoothly, forcing it can cause it to break.
If your key doesn’t turn smoothly, forcing it could break it in half. This happens when you apply too much pressure, especially when jiggling or twisting a stuck key.
Why Does This Happen?
- Lock misalignment: If the door isn’t closing properly, it can make turning the key harder.
- Debris inside the lock: Dirt, dust, and tiny particles can build up, making it difficult for the key to slide in and turn.
- A damaged key or lock: If the key is bent or if the lock pins are worn, extra force is needed to turn the mechanism.
Cold Weather
Metal contracts in the cold, which can make an old or weak key more brittle. Winter can be brutal—not just on people, but on keys and locks too! Metal contracts in cold temperatures, which makes old or weakened keys more likely to snap.
Why Cold Affects Keys and Locks:
- Freezing temperatures cause the key’s metal to become more brittle.
- Locks can freeze if moisture builds up inside, making them harder to turn.
- Ice or frost inside the lock increases resistance, requiring more force to turn the key.
Poorly Cut or Damaged Keys
A worn-down key with rough edges can get stuck in the lock. Not all keys are created equal. A badly cut or worn-down key can easily get stuck or break inside the lock.
How Do Bad Keys Happen?
- Cheap key copies – Some key-cutting machines aren’t calibrated properly, leading to weak or imprecise cuts.
- Bent or warped keys – If your key has been dropped, stepped on, or slightly bent, it won’t turn smoothly.
- Corroded or rusted keys – Exposure to moisture can weaken the metal over time.
Lock Malfunctions
Dirt, rust, or misalignment inside the lock can cause extra resistance. Sometimes, the key isn’t the issue—the lock itself is causing trouble. A faulty or dirty lock can create extra resistance, increasing the chance of a key snapping.
Common Lock Issues That Cause Broken Keys:
- Dirt and debris buildup – Dust, grime, or small particles can block the lock’s mechanism.
- Rust or corrosion – Moisture exposure can cause internal rust, making the lock hard to turn.
- Misaligned lock components – If the pins or tumblers aren’t moving correctly, the key won’t turn smoothly.
How to Get a Broken Key Out of a Lock
Before you try anything, check if a small portion of the key is sticking out. If so, you’re in luck! If not, don’t worry—there are still ways to retrieve it.
1. Use Needle-Nose Pliers or Tweezers
If part of the key is sticking out, grab it gently with pliers or tweezers and pull it straight out. Be careful not to push the key further in.
2. Try a Broken Key Extractor Tool
A key extractor is a specialized locksmith tool designed to remove broken keys. If you don’t have one, you can buy one at a hardware store or online.
3. Apply Super Glue (Last Resort)
Sounds crazy, but it can work! Apply a tiny dab of super glue to the broken end of the key still in your hand. Hold it against the piece in the lock for a few minutes, then gently pull. This method only works if the key isn’t too deep inside the lock.
4. Use a Jigsaw Blade or Paperclip
Slide a thin jigsaw blade, bobby pin, or paper clip into the lock alongside the broken key. Try to hook it and slowly pull it out.
5. Spray Lubricant and Tap the Lock
If the key is stuck, spray a little WD-40 or graphite lubricant inside the lock. Then, tap the lock lightly to help loosen it before attempting to remove the key.
When to Call a Locksmith
If the broken key is lodged deep inside, or if you’ve tried everything and it won’t budge, it’s time to call a locksmith. Professional locksmiths have specialized tools that can remove broken keys without damaging the lock.
Pro Tip: If your lock is old or difficult to turn, a locksmith can also inspect it and recommend a replacement if needed.
How to Prevent a Key from Breaking Again
Replace old keys – If your key looks bent or worn down, get a new copy made before it breaks.
Keep your lock lubricated – A little graphite powder or WD-40 can help keep your lock smooth.
Don’t force a key to turn – If it sticks, stop and assess why instead of forcing it.
Make a spare key. Having a backup means you won’t rely on one worn-out key.
Final Thoughts
A broken key in a lock is annoying, but it doesn’t have to ruin your day. With the right tools and techniques, our locksmith would be able to offer the best solutions. Clapham Locksmith London is the best locksmith that can save the day. We can assist you if your key is spinning in lock or if you need help with your key snapped off in lock. Reach out now and we will help you!