Maybe your keys fell into a sewer grate, or maybe you forgot them on the kitchen table. Whatever the reason, here’s how to unlock a house door in an emergency.
Don’t feel bad, we’ve all been there. You walk out and feel that the knob won’t turn as you slam it shut, and you realize you’ve made a mistake.
It is bound to happen to everyone at some point in their lives (maybe some more than others), but luckily there are some simple solutions.
Let’s find out how to unlock a house door so you can get back to your business.
How to Unlock a House Door
It is important to note that there are many different types of locks, and all of them can be opened differently. Your key for your front door is probably different from the one for your bathroom, but it can still be just as tricky to get in once you’re locked out. Luckily, we can help with a few simple tips.
Credit Card
This time-tested, old school strategy has been around as long as credit cards have existed. Remember, this method will only work on a regular lock. Not a deadbolt.
Most house doors open toward the inside, and when they close, there is a bevel that folds in so the door can close properly. Locking this usually only ensures that the knob cannot be turned.
The way to use a credit card is to have the card level with the doorknob. The objective is to slip the card vertically between the door and the frame in order to push the beveled lock into the door.
If possible, do not use a card that you need, especially if you need to bend the card to get around a threshold on the door frame.
If this does not work, your lock may have been designed to prevent this method of unlocking. However, don’t give up! There’s still hope.
Paperclip
Many interior doors in homes have push locks, which are easily opened with a paperclip. Simply open up the paper clip, insert it into the small round hole in the center, and try to push as straight forward as possible until you hear a click.
If you are unable to find the trigger to push, feel around with the paperclip until you feel something near the center, pull back the paper clip, and push on that.
Remove the Door
Okay, we’re at the point of no return. Grab some tools, remove the lock, open the door, and put it back when you’re inside.
If your lock prevents this, no worries. If the door opens outwardly toward you, then take off the hinges and put them back on when you’re done.
Call for Help
We can’t do everything ourselves. If all else fails and you do not have the necessary devices to open your door, it is time to call a professional locksmith to help you out, or should I say, in.
How to Avoid It Next Time
It’s one thing to know how to unlock a house door, but it’s another to know how to not need that information. Find a good hiding spot for a spare key so you don’t accidentally damage your lock trying to break in.
However, if you do get locked out, just remember that there is always a friendly neighborhood locksmith at your service when y
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