How to Remove Super Glue From a Lock
You get home or to the office, and your key won’t go into the lock. Upon closer inspection, you see glue or silicone sealant in the keyhole. If you have multiple entry points, then you can get in through another door and deal with the compromised lock later. But if the glued lock is your only entry point, then what to do? Sounds frustrating, but there is a solution. Avoid getting stuck with a glued lock with Sure Lock & Key’s 24/7 emergency locksmith services. Our experienced technicians can handle all lock-related issues quickly and efficiently. However, if you want to provide a DIY extraction, in the next chapters, we’ll look at ways to safely remove adhesive from locks and get back into your property in no time.
The Best Super Glue Removers
Super glue is great for permanent bonding, but it becomes a real pain when it gets on locks. Finding super glue on a lock can seem daunting, but with the right approach, this can be sorted quickly. Here’s professional advice on how to remove it from common lock surfaces like steel or aluminum.
- Acetone Solution: Apply a small amount of acetone based nail polish remover into a keyhole and wait for a little. Acetone is good at loosening and dissolving super glue so it’s easier to remove. But be careful as acetone can discolor some surfaces, so it is better to test on an inconspicuous area first.
- WD-40 Application: If acetone doesn’t work try WD-40. Spray it directly onto the glued area. The degreasing properties of WD-40 can break down super glue residue so it’s easier to clean.
- Vinegar Method: If you don’t have acetone or WD-40, then household vinegar is an option. Apply vinegar to the lock area and let it sit for a bit to start the dissolving process.
Glue Removing Techniques
There are also a few special techniques that you can use to regain access to your property, which is blocked by a glued door lock. With the common tools and a lot of patience, you can try to get back your lock’s functionality by yourself. Still, we insist on calling a professional locksmith to avoid unpleasant outcomes like broken mechanisms or damaged surfaces. Here are top-3 glue removal techniques:
- Mechanical removal: Scrape or pick off dried glue with plastic scrapers, credit cards, or specialized lock picks. Be careful not to damage the lock surface.
- Heat: This method would be good if you could access your house through another entry. Use a hair dryer or heat gun to warm the glued area. Most of the time, the glue will soften and come off. Yet, take care not to break the lock or its parts.
- Freeze: For some adhesives, extreme cold will make the glue brittle and easier to remove. To do this, take a compressed air can and use it to freeze the lock. Then, scrape the glue with a sharp item until there are no obstructions left. Still, be careful not to damage the lock pins, so you won’t just be left stuck behind your door by now but need a whole lock replacement.
How To Prevent Gluing Your Locks
Knowing the glue-removing tips is good, but preventing these misfortunes is better. That’s why we’ve gathered several practical steps to protect your door locks from gluing or other forms of tampering. Here are some:
- Install security cameras: Visible cameras will deter potential vandals and help you identify someone trying to tamper with your locks.
- Use protective covers: Install lock guards or escutcheon plates that cover the keyhole when not in use so no one can access the lock mechanism.
- Regular inspection: Check your locks frequently for signs of tampering or foreign substances.
- Better lighting: Well-lit entryways discourage criminal activity. Consider motion-activated lights for extra security.
- Neighborhood watch: Join or start a neighborhood watch program to increase community awareness.
- Apply a thin layer of lubricant: A light coat of graphite powder or silicone-based lubricant will make it harder for glue to stick to the lock.
Keep in mind that these methods will reduce the risk of tampering, but it is not a 100% guarantee of protection. For custom security solutions, contact Sure Lock & Key for a consultation. We’ll recommend what’s best for you to secure your loved ones and property using the most effective method.
Summing Up
A glued door lock can bring a lot of inconvenience and hassle that no one wants to deal with. However, a misfortune like this can be turned around with only one call to a proficient locksmith. Sure, Lock & Key will be glad to offer you support when you face any breakages or other security issues. We provide a comprehensive range of locksmith services from coast to coast to ensure your protection and peace of mind. So, feel free to call us now for a professional consultation and fast solution to any of your problems!