Quck answer
To remove a stuck deadbolt, follow these steps:
1. Examine the deadbolt: Check for any visible obstructions or damage that may be causing it to get stuck.
2. Lubricate the lock: Apply a penetrating oil or graphite lubricant to the keyhole and try turning the key gently to loosen the deadbolt.
3. Use a screwdriver: Insert a flathead screwdriver into the slot on the side of the deadbolt and turn it counterclockwise to retract the bolt.
4. Tap with a hammer: If the deadbolt still won’t budge, lightly tap the screwdriver with a hammer to help loosen any stuck components.
5. Call a locksmith: If all else fails, it’s best to call a professional locksmith to avoid causing further damage to the lock or door.
Remember to always exercise caution when attempting to remove a stuck deadbolt to prevent injury or damage.
There are several reasons why deadbolts can become stuck. The lockset itself may need lubrication or the door may have shifted, causing the deadbolt barrel to become wedged against the wood in the door frame. It’s also possible that the deadbolt was not installed properly. If lubrication doesn’t solve the issue, you can try using a screwdriver, pliers, and a hammer.
Applying Lubrication to the Lockset
If the key goes only partially into the deadbolt or goes all the way in but won’t turn, and the lock isn’t frozen, you need to lubricate it. It’s recommended to use graphite powder for this, but if you don’t have any, you can use penetrating oil or lubricating fluid like WD-40. Insert the applicator nozzle into the keyhole and squeeze or spray the lubricant. Then, try turning the key. With some wiggling and possibly additional lubricant, the key should work if it’s the correct one.
If the lock doesn’t work during winter, it’s possible that it’s frozen. In that case, you’ll need to apply heat using a hairdryer or heat gun to unfreeze it.
Removing the Stuck Deadbolt
If you can partially turn the key but can’t fully unlock the deadbolt, it means that the barrel is wedged against the door frame. Try lifting the handle while turning the key. If that doesn’t work, you’ll need to remove the lockset to expose the lock mechanism and free the barrel. To do this, you’ll need access to the inside of the door, so hopefully, you have another way to enter the house.
Take note of the two screws holding the lockset escutcheon, also known as a rosette, to the lock. If you can’t see them, remove the rosette by loosening the hex screw at the bottom with a 1/8-inch hex wrench, and you’ll find the screws underneath. Use a screwdriver to loosen and remove these screws, then pull off the doorknob. The keyset will most likely fall off on the other side of the door, but you can retrieve it once the door is open.
Once the lock mechanism is exposed, you’ll see a square or hexagonal opening where the keyset fits. Insert a flathead screwdriver into this slot and clamp a pair of pliers onto the handle of the screwdriver. This should provide enough leverage to retract the deadbolt when you apply pressure to the pliers. Alternatively, you can use a socket wrench instead of a screwdriver. Insert a hexagonal bit that fits into the opening into the socket, and use the wrench handle to turn the lock mechanism.
After retracting the deadbolt and opening the door, remove the two screws holding the lock mechanism to the door and pull it out. Repair or replace it as necessary.
Removing the Door
If, by some chance, you find yourself unable to unlock the deadbolt, you can always remove the door from its hinges. To do this, place a flathead screwdriver under the top of each hinge pin and gently tap upwards with a hammer to loosen them. Once they start to move, you should be able to extract them using either the screwdriver or a pair of pliers. Once all the pins have been removed, enlist the help of someone to push on the outside of the door while you position yourself to catch it. It may require a strong push, but eventually the door will come down and you will be able to pull it away from the frame, freeing the deadbolt.
