When your keys suddenly break off in your lock chances are that you are going to feel a sense of dread and helplessness. Unfortunately, such instances happen when you least expect, and you shouldn’t have to worry. This guide will explore some of the most effective ways to get a broken key out of the door.

Key Extractor

A key extractor is one of the best solutions to removing a broken key. Most people wouldn’t think of having such a tool, but when your key breaks off, you can easily purchase it on select hardware stores or online for a few dollars.

To achieve desirable results when using an extractor, you need to place it along the keys bitting inside the keyway. In doing so, you will hook the key’s teeth with the hook on the extractor. Once the keyway is placed along the bitting, all you’ve got to do is to turn and pull, and your key should be out. It’s important to note that the extractors come in different variations and you need to pick the design that best suits your need.

Super Glue

Although this technique might seem counterintuitive, it will only work if the edge of the key is visible. If you want to get out your key, you need to take a small match or wire and add glue. Exercise cautious when doing this because too much glue may harm the lock and not having enough will prevent the key from sticking.

Also, you need to hold the wire/match edge against the key when applying pressure so that you don’t push the key further into the lock. Most importantly you need to wait for the match/wire edge and the glue to bind before you can pull.

Tweezers

While tweezers might seem like the best alternative when removing your key, they can end up worsening the situation if you don’t take the necessary precautions. When using tweezers, you need to ensure that they can open wide enough to fit on the side of the key. Given the warding that’s present on most keyways, your average tweezers won’t fit. Also, take note that Tweezers work best if there is part of the key protruding from the keyhole.

The Jigsaw Blade

If you don’t prefer buying a specialty key extractor you can design one using a jigsaw blade, but this only works with a mini hacksaw blade. When using the jigsaw all you need to have is a thin piece of metal that can fit together with your key. Alternatively, you can break the blade with nose pliers since it makes it easier to insert the serrated edge.

This allows the blade to go in easier and also hook on the key easier. With a turn and pull your key should be out and if this doesn’t happen on the first attempt, you need to try again. This method will come in handy if you have the means to travel to a hardware store or you have some blades lying around.

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