Have you ever found yourself standing in front of a door, ready to unlock it, only to realise that the key is stuck in the mortice lock? It’s a frustrating feeling that we’ve all experienced at some point. But don’t worry – in this article, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to remove a key stuck in a mortice lock so you can get back to your day. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, these tips will come in handy when you find yourself in this predicament.
Step 1: Try to determine the cause of the key getting stuck in the mortice lock
Before you start trying to remove the stuck key, it’s important to take a moment to assess the situation and try to figure out why the key is stuck in the mortice lock. Some common causes of keys getting stuck in mortice locks include:
- The key is bent or damaged. If the key is bent or has been damaged in some way, it may be more difficult to turn in the lock
- The lock is dirty or dry. If the lock is dirty or dry, the key may have difficulty turning
- The lock is misaligned. If the lock is misaligned, the key may get stuck when you try to turn it
Step 2: Lubricate the lock
If the lock is dry or dirty, one of the easiest and most effective ways to remove a stuck key is to lubricate the lock. This can help to loosen any dirt or debris that may be causing the key to get stuck. You can use a commercial lock lubricant or a home remedy like graphite powder or WD-40. Simply apply a small amount of lubricant to the key and the lock, and then try turning the key again.
Step 3: Use a key extractor tool
If lubricating the lock doesn’t work, you may need to use a key extractor tool to remove the stuck key. These tools are specifically designed to grip the key and allow you to gently pull it out of the lock. There are a variety of key extractor tools available on the market, so you should be able to find one that will work for your specific situation.
Step 4: Use pliers or a wrench to remove the key
If you don’t have a key extractor tool on hand, you can try using a pair of pliers or a wrench to remove the stuck key. To do this, grip the key firmly with the pliers or wrench and gently try to turn it in the lock. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this could cause the key to break off in the lock.
Step 5: Call a locksmith
If none of the above methods work, it may be time to call a locksmith. A professional locksmith will have the tools and expertise to remove the stuck key and get your lock working properly again.
At Locksmiths of London, we have years of experience of dealing with keys stuck in locks, so if none of the above works, please get in touch.
