Broken Key Extraction in Newcastle and North Tyneside
A key broken off inside a lock leaves you in a frustrating situation - the door cannot be opened with the key stub remaining inside, and trying to extract it yourself with pliers or a screwdriver usually pushes it further in and makes the job harder. Moorside Locksmiths carry specialist key extraction tools and can remove a broken key from the cylinder in most cases without damaging the lock mechanism. Call us on 07968 567171 and we will come to you.
WHY KEYS BREAK IN LOCKS
Keys break in locks for several reasons:
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The key has worn thin over years of use and snaps under the rotational stress of turning the lock
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The lock itself is stiff or failing, requiring extra force that the key cannot withstand
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The key was cut slightly incorrectly and has been under stress each time it has been used
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The lock cylinder is worn and the key no longer engages cleanly, causing it to be forced and break
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In many cases the broken key is a symptom of a deeper problem with the lock or cylinder. Once we have extracted the key we will advise you on whether the cylinder is in good condition or whether replacement would be the better choice.
HOW WE EXTRACT BROKEN KEYS
We use specialist extraction tools - key extractors and broken key removers - designed to grip and withdraw the broken section from inside the cylinder without forcing it further in or damaging the internal pins. In most cases this is a non-destructive process, meaning the cylinder is still functional after the key has been removed.
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If the broken section is too far inside the cylinder to retrieve non-destructively, or if the cylinder has been damaged in the process of the key breaking, we can replace the cylinder on the same visit.
AFTER EXTRACTION
Once the broken key is removed, we will:
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Test the lock to confirm it is working correctly
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Advise on whether the cylinder needs replacing
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If you need new keys cut, we can advise on the best next steps
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If the lock is old or worn, we will let you know whether upgrading is worthwhile
FAQs
Can you extract a broken key without replacing the lock?
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In most cases yes. We use non-destructive extraction tools and the cylinder usually remains functional. We will let you know at the time if replacement is needed.
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I have tried to get it out myself with pliers and pushed it further in. Can you still help?
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Yes, though a key that has been pushed deeper into the cylinder can be more difficult to extract. Call us and describe the situation - we will advise over the phone whether extraction is likely to be straightforward or not.
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Do you cover key extraction at night?
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Yes. We operate 24/7 and a broken key in a lock is exactly the kind of problem that needs resolving immediately. Call 07968 567171 at any hour.
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My key broke because the lock was stiff. Do I need a new lock?
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Possibly. A stiff lock that causes keys to break under force usually needs a new cylinder. We will assess and advise after the extraction.