Having a broken key in a door lock can be a stressful incident for anybody. But thankfully, a snapped key is a far more common problem than most people realise and, once you know the causes, and have the necessary solutions at hand, there is little need for anxiety.
Why Keys Break in Locks
At some point keys will become worn and break. A previously worn or bent key is even more prone to breakage than a new one. A key can also break trying to force a lock open, using the wrong key for a lock, or incorrectly turning a key.
Environmental factors may also contribute. Dirt or debris inside the lock can create resistance, making it harder to turn the key smoothly. In these cases, added pressure may cause the key to snap unexpectedly.
What to Do When It Happens
For safety and to avoid causing more damage, it is usually advisable to not attempt to remove the broken piece without the proper tools. If it’s pushed in further, it could become a more costly repair, possibly requiring the entire unit to be replaced.
A locksmith Bishop Auckland can typically remove a broken key using specialist equipment designed for precise extraction. Specialists such as https://lockwork24-7.co.uk/locksmith/bishop-auckland can demonstrate how trained professionals approach these situations carefully to avoid additional damage.
If the removal process is short, then the lock is likely to be still in good shape, and only a new key needs to be cut, assuming the original key snapped cleanly and is usable for key duplication.