A broken key can be a frustrating and unexpected obstacle, often occurring at the least convenient moments. Whether it’s your home, office, or vehicle key that has snapped, the inconvenience and potential security risks can be significant. In this guide, we’ll explore the steps you can take if you find yourself with a broken key, as well as strategies to prevent this common issue from occurring in the first place.
Understanding the Causes
Before delving into solutions, it’s important to understand why keys break. Typically, a key might snap due to wear and tear over time, forceful entry, using the wrong key in a lock, or because the lock mechanism itself is faulty or jammed. Recognising these factors can help in both addressing the immediate problem and avoiding future occurrences.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Remain Calm and Assess the Situation: The initial step is to stay calm and assess how much of the key is broken and whether a part of it is still in the lock. Panicking may lead to further damage to the lock or injury to yourself.
- Do Not Attempt to Force the Broken Piece Out: Attempting to use force to remove the broken piece from the lock can result in the piece becoming more lodged or damaging the lock mechanism. Avoid using pliers or similar tools unless you have a clear view and easy grasp of the broken piece.
- Apply Lubricant (If Applicable): Sometimes, applying a lubricant can help ease the removal of the broken piece. However, this step is only advisable if a significant portion of the key is visible and can be gripped.
- Use Professional Tools If Available: Specialised tools like a broken key extractor can be used to remove the key fragment. These tools are designed to grip and slide out the broken piece without causing damage to the lock.
- Call a Professional Locksmith: If the above steps are not feasible or successful, it’s time to call a professional locksmith. Skilled locksmiths, like those at RJ Parker Locksmiths, have the necessary tools and expertise to safely remove the broken key without damaging the lock.
Prevention Tips
Preventing a key from breaking is preferable to dealing with the aftermath. Here are several strategies to minimise the risk:
- Regularly Inspect and Maintain Your Locks and Keys: Frequent checks for signs of wear and tear can help identify potential problems before they lead to a broken key. If a key or lock feels stiff, applying a suitable lubricant can help.
- Use Keys Appropriately: Avoid using keys as tools for tasks like opening packages. Misuse can weaken the key and lead to breakage.
- Duplicate Worn Keys: If a key is showing signs of wear, get a duplicate made before it breaks. This not only avoids the immediate issue but also ensures you have a backup.
- Ensure Proper Alignment: When inserting a key into a lock, ensure it is properly aligned and inserted fully before turning. Forcing a misaligned key can bend or snap it.
- Upgrade to High-Quality Locks and Keys: Investing in high-quality locks and keys from reputable manufacturers can reduce the likelihood of breakages due to material failure.
Long-Term Solutions
Regular Professional Maintenance: Having your locks checked and maintained by professional locksmiths can help ensure they remain in good working order, reducing the strain on keys and the likelihood of breakages.
Conclusion
A broken key doesn’t have to be a disaster. By taking the right immediate steps and employing preventive measures, you can minimise both the occurrence and impact of broken keys. Remember, regular maintenance and proper usage are key (pun intended) to preventing such incidents. However, when faced with a broken key, professional locksmiths like RJ Parker Locksmiths are your best bet for a swift and efficient resolution.
At RJ Parker Locksmiths, we understand the inconvenience and security concerns that come with broken keys. That’s why we offer prompt, reliable, and skilled services to address your locksmith needs. Whether it’s lockout services, key extraction, or lock maintenance, we are here to ensure your peace of mind. Don’t let a broken key disrupt your day—contact us for fast, professional assistance.