When you are in a hurry and are not careful with your lock and key, you might find yourself with a big problem. Sometimes you can bend your key or scratch it, but other times you can cause some serious damage — like when the key breaks before you completely remove it. Knowing what to do if your key broke off inside the lock ahead of time can save you a lot of trouble if it happens.

If Your Key Broke Off Inside The Lock, try following these steps (note, this will not work if you have a skeleton key):

1. You will need to get a thin-bladed piece of metal, preferably serrated metal. For example, a broken coping saw blade or jig saw blade would work well.

2. If it is possible for you to remove the lock from the door, do so. If it is not possible or not easy for you to remove the lock from the door, do not worry.

3. Figure out how the key is positioned. You need to know this so you can work from the side with the teeth. The smooth side won’t help you here.

4. Spray the keyhole with some sort of lubricant, such as graphite powder. Do not drown the keyhole, but make sure it is evenly coated to ensure a smooth transition.

5. Match the blade and key tooth-to-tooth and slide your blade into the keyhole.

6. Keep pushing, slowly but smoothly, until the blade’s teeth grab the key’s teeth.

7. Pull the blade out very slowly, making sure it remains connected with the key. This should pull the broken key piece out.

These steps will work for most typical locks, but some lock and key sets will be more difficult. For example, deadbolts will be harder to wriggle through because they are designed to be sturdier.

Connect With A Locksmith

If this does not work, you may need to consider getting some professional assistance. TalkLocal can connect you with local locksmiths that can get your broken key out and fix your lock. The search process is quick and easy.

A very common problem that occurs for both the seasoned homeowner and the new renter is with locks. More specifically, many people get their key stuck in the lock and don’t know how to get it out.  The surprising thing is that more often than not, this can be solved with an extremely simple method.  Let’s first start with what had likely caused you to be in such a predicament.

My Key Is Stuck In The Lock!

The locks that typically get stuck are not the deadbolts, but the bottom portion of household locks. These locks have a keyhole mechanism in the center and are typically surrounded by a metal cylinder. The issue oftentimes is that the keyhole mechanism becomes lose, which puts unusual pressure on the key, causing it to get stuck in the lock.

How To Get Your Key Unstuck

A common solution is to spray the inside lock with a lubricant like WD40, or to use graphite to keep the inside of the lock from becoming jammed.  If you don’t have access to these items there are still some options for getting your key unstuck from the lock.

Try placing your index finger on the lock mechanism with one hand. With your free hand, grab the key between your index finger and thumb, making sure that the lock is staying put and the key is the only thing moving. This will help to stabilize the lock, and hopefully, you will be able to pull your key out of the lock.

Find A Locksmith

If you are still having trouble with your key getting stuck in the lock, you can use Seva Call. We will connect you with up to three, high-quality locksmiths within minutes. We will have you speaking with the right professionals in just minutes, for free!

If the inside of a lock is sticky, it is going to give you fits every time you go to use it. Instead of inserting the key and turning it effortlessly, you will find yourself wrestling with it just to unlock a door. You might notice the inside of a lock is sticky if the lock has been subjected to the elements (rain, snow, etc.) over the years or if you have not used it in a while.

Here are some tips for when you encounter a stubborn lock such as this.

Do Not Use General Lubricants

Fixing the problem might seem ultra-simple — just apply general lubricant to the lock in order to loosen it up. This might be a suitable temporary fix, but it will not stand up to the test of time. A lot of lubricants will attract dust and leave a greasy residue inside the lock. Once the dust collects and the residue hardens, the lock is going to be just as, if not more, sticky than in the first place.

Use Powdered Graphite

While the other lubricants will not suffice, powdered graphite is perfect for a job like this. It is available at most hardware stores, and does not leave behind a residue or cause the inside of your lock to collect dust. Once you have purchased the graphite, take the following steps.

1. Open the graphite and apply one or two squirts into the lock. Be careful not to over-apply the graphite.

2. Insert your key into the lock and take it out. Do this several times to help work the graphite in to all areas of the lock.

3. If you think it will help, you can apply the graphite to other areas of the doorknob.

4. Test the lock to make sure it is no longer sticky.

Still Sticky?

If this does not fix the problem, your lock might be damaged and in need of a qualified locksmith. At TalkLocal, we have local locksmiths on call for you. When you submit a request through our website, we’ll put you in touch with these professionals immediately.

You might hear them referred to as master keys, passkeys, or passing keys, but they are all synonymous with the term “skeleton key”. Sounds ominous. So, what is a skeleton key? A skeleton key is one which is designed specifically to fit many different locks, giving you the sense of power of a “master” key. They are often used when the key to a particular lock is not available or has been broken or lost. They can easily give access to doors and rooms once inaccessible.

A skeleton key can also be referred to as one which is designed to unlock a warded lock. In such a case, skeleton keys, which usually don a very simple style in which the center of the key has been removed, can bypass the ward structure of several ward locks, all containing specific configurations.

A Brief History of the Skeleton Key

Skeleton keys were often used in earlier centuries, for old home locks, antique furniture, or large chests, and commonly resemble the picture above. Today, the popular term used is master key. They have a similar appearance in that they are designed to fit many different lock structures, and are often used in home, hotel and office settings where many keys are used to open several different locks and doors. In business and hotel settings, for example, you may find a janitor with a passkey or master key to open up offices, bathrooms, and utility doors using just one key.

Need a Skeleton Key?

If you have lost your key or have locked yourself out of your car, office or home and need some help, try using TalkLocal to locate a locksmith near you. You could even have a skeleton key made for your home or business! TalkLocal is a free service that will connect you with top-quality, reputable professionals in your neighborhood, within minutes. Simply enter in your problem, location and availability and we will contact multiple locksmith companies, who will then call YOU directly, ready to help. Don’t fret if you’ve suddenly lost access to your home, car, or office. Let TalkLocal find the right professional to help you out immediately!

No one enjoys being locked outside of their own home.  If the front door lock is jammed or stuck, hopefully you keep camping equipment in your car. But seriously, a jammed door lock can pose a real security threat for your home. You will want to figure out exactly how and why your front door lock is jammed. We have some tips for you below, so you won’t have to pack a portable home in your car all the time.

What to Do When Your Front Door Lock Is Jammed

1. You can un-jam the lock by removing it from the door and cleaning it.  Use a screwdriver to unscrew the lock from the door. Most locks are held in place by two long screws.  Set the screws aside so that you can reattach the lock later.

2. Now you can clean each piece of the lock. Use rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab q-tip to get all the dust and dirt particles off each piece.

3. Pour a little bit of rubbing alcohol into the keyhole and let it sit.  With the rubbing alcohol in the keyhole, insert the key in and out a couple times to loosen any internal gunk.

4. Once as much dirt and dust is removed from the lock as possible, spray each part of the lock with a light coating of lubricant, such as WD-40.  This will keep the parts in working order and help the lock function properly.  Make sure lubricant is applied outside and inside the lock.

5. Once the lock is dry you can test it to see if it jams, before re-installing it in your door.

6. Re-install the lock into the door, using the screws you removed before. If this does not solve your problem you may have to replace the entire lock.

Find A Reputable Locksmith

If your front door lock is jammed, and cleaning out the individual pieces does not help, you will need to call in a locksmith. TalkLocal will connect you with up to three, high-quality locksmiths in your area. We’ll have you speaking to a professional in just minutes, so you won’t need to spend the night in your front yard!

So you lost your keys, or maybe you locked them your car. You could call a locksmith, but why pay for a service that you may be able to do yourself? We have some ideas on how to open locked car door – but only if the car you’re opening is yours!

The Coat Hanger Method

1. Fully uncoil the coat hanger. Make one side of the long piece of metal into a hook about the size of your finger. Make the hook into a U or V shape.

2. You will want to slide the hooked side in between the glass of the window and the protective rubber that is pressed against the glass. By pulling the rubber back, you will have an opening to stick the hook through.

3. Slide the hook inside the window and push it down 2-3 inches, then you will want to rotate the hook so that it is facing the inside of the car.

4. Feel around for the mechanism that controls the lock. If you do not succeed at first, continue trying. It may take several attempts until you successfully get under the lever and unlock the door.

The Suction Method

1. To use a plunger, apply some cream around the edge of the plunger, giving the plunger extra suction.

2. Place the plunger over the key hole so that the keyhole is directly in the middle of the plunger. With one forceful and direct pump, the lock should pop open. This takes time to perfect, so continue trying until you successfully unlock the lock.

You can also use a tennis ball for the suction method.

1. The tennis ball should have a small hole in it. This can be done by heating up a key or screw driver over the stove.

2. Once the metal object is hot enough, stick it into the ball and rotate the ball around it to try to shred the ball and make a hole.

3. Place the hole in the tennis ball directly over the keyhole. Hold the ball with one hand, and use your stronger hand to  pump the hard to unlock the car door. The air pressure created from the suction of the ball can unlock the car door.

The String Method

1. First, you will need approximately 3-5 5 feet of sturdy string, such as paracord. You can purchase paracord for as low as $3.29 from Amazon as of April 18, 2016. Make a slip knot in the middle of the string, creating a 1 to 2-inch loop. (Ensure that the knot is tight. You want it to close but not too easily.)

2. Pry the door apart with a screwdriver or similar object just enough for you to slip the knot inside the car. You may be able to do this with your hands as well, depending on your strength.

3. Once you slip the knotted string through the hole, line up the loop with the top of the lock. Lower the string so that the lock is inside of the loop. Pull the legs of the string to close the loop. Make sure that the knot is taut.

4. As you pull one leg of the string taut, pull the other leg of string straight up. Voila! Your car door is unlocked.

The string method only works on car doors that have the pull-up style locks, such as this one.

Professional Help

A insurance provider or AAA might assist you in situations like this. If you personally do not have AAA, you can ask a friend to call for you. Most of the time, the professional will not ask for your name or policy number, however you may want your friend to be with you just in case. You could also take the easy way out and just break the window, but then you have a broken window to deal with.

If you are not comfortable breaking into your own car, or you don’t want to be accused of breaking into cars in a parking lot, call in the cavalry. TalkLocal will find you a locksmith in your area who is ready to help. Use TalkLocal today!

Some signs that a lock is not operating the way it should are obvious. For instance, if you insert your key into the lock, and the key turns but the lock doesn’t open, the lock is clearly busted. You might even find yourself locked out of the home or office in this situation, so remedying the problem quickly is important.

When the key turns but the lock doesn’t open, that indicates a number of potential problems. These issues could range from a locking mechanism that is in severe need of lubricant, to one that is completely broken and in need of repair or replacement.

Some of these are do-it-yourself projects, while others require the watchful eye of a skilled locksmith.

Locking mechanism is broken

Most likely in this situation, the locking mechanism is completely broken. You must remove the lockset and have it either replaced or repaired. Removing the lockset is relatively easy with the right tools

Other Lock Issues 

Weather stripping throws off alignment. If your key turns and stops short of locking completely, bulky weather stripping around the door could be throwing off the door’s alignment. Either remove the weather stripping, or adjust the strike plate to accommodate the lock correctly.

Lockset in need of lubricant. If it takes a great amount of effort to turn the key, it might just be in need of some lubricant. Apply lubricant to the lock and see if it allows the key to move more smoothly.

Mortise cut incorrectly. You might be able to turn the key, but it stops short of its full range of motion. If this is the case, the lock’s mortise might not be deep enough. This issue can be settled simply by boring a deeper mortise.

Locksmiths Are A Few Clicks Away

If all else fails, locksmiths are generally accessible and can fix most problems quickly. At TalkLocal, we make finding a locksmith ultra-simple Just type information about your problem, and professionals will be calling you within minutes happy to assist.

Learning how to pick a skeleton key lock can be very useful. This is not a criminal skill if you do not use it for criminal activity. You might find yourself locked out of an important area (i.e. a home or office) and learning how to bypass a skeleton key lock can prove invaluable. It’s not always easy. After all, locks are made to protect your home or other buildings.

A skeleton key is often known as a lever lock. You only need a few simple tools to be able to complete the task in a timely manner.

How to Pick a Skeleton Key Lock

The only tools you will need are a short hook and a tension wrench. Follow the steps below to easily pick one of these locks.

1. Insert the tension wrench at the bottom of the lock and turn it as far as you can in whatever direction you would turn the key.

2. Insert the short hook all the way into the back of the lock.

3. Find the very first pin that is in the lock and push it up with the short hook. You can move on to the next pin once you feel the first pin click.

4. Repeat the process with the next pin. The tension wrench will keep the pins in place so you do not have to worry about them.

5. Keep repeating the process until the lock is completely cleared.

Locksmith services can be very expensive. If you can learn how to pick a skeleton key lock and master the process, you could end up saving yourself a bundle of money. You should practice this skill a few times at home. Make sure you have a key in case you fail at picking the lock.

The next time you end up locked out of your house or office, you will be prepared to pick the lock yourself. Carry the necessary tools in your vehicle so that you always have what you need.

Or, Call In Professionals

If you feel you cannot accomplish this task, you can always count on TalkLocal to connect you with reliable locksmiths in your area. Our service allows you to first explain your locksmith needs and we go to work finding you the right help. It’s fast, free and easy.

Few things are scarier than finding out that someone has entered your home or taken your personal belongings. To avoid this, you want to make sure you, your family, and your things are properly protected. To do that, you need to know how to tell if a lock is high quality. This will depend greatly on what kind of lock you have — from traditional manual locks, all the way up to electronic locks.

Combination Locks

When using a combination lock, you want to find one that allows you to set and change the combination yourself. This allows you to pick a combination you will not forget and that others cannot guess. If you think someone has guessed your combination, you can change it easily.

Padlocks

If you’re using a padlock, you want to start with a laminated padlock. Laminated locks are more durable and less likely to crack under pressure. Shrouded locks also make it harder for outsiders to break the lock handle.

Door Locks For Your Home

This is arguably one of the most important locks you will need. Learning how to tell if a lock is high quality will prove crucial in this situation. Some types of door locks include:

Don’t Trust Your Locks To Just Anyone

The locks detailed above are all mechanical locks. There is a new world of electronic locks that require you to utilize personal information to open them. Electronic locks are very different, so you may want to weigh your options and decide if you need an electronic or mechanical lock.

You may wish to hire a professional to install a lock or to open one that you have lost the key or combination for. TalkLocal connects professionals to consumers by taking the work out of the search.