Nothing is more frustrating than getting locked out of your unit. You can easily unlock the door and gain access with a few simple instruments. This article will teach you how to open a storage lock cylinder. Follow these simple steps to access your storage unit, whether you have a lost or broken key or are preparing for an emergency.
The most common lock type used in storage units is the cylinder lock. While they may not be the most secure, they are still challenging to open. It is possible to bypass this type of lock with a little effort.
Why would you break a storage cylinder lock?
Some might wonder why they need to break the storage cylinder lock. It’s not as if they would rob people of their homes or businesses. In some situations, breaking a storage lock cylinder may be the most effective solution.
If you’ve lost your key, breaking the storage cylinder lock may be necessary. You can’t get into a storage unit if you lose your key. If you have to enter the team immediately, this can be a problem.
If the lock is damaged, it will not work correctly, and you won’t be able to get into the storage unit. The lock will not function correctly if it is damaged. You will be unable to enter the team.
If you don’t have a key, you might need to break the cylinder lock of a storage unit. If you’re moving and want to avoid spending the time to ask the previous owner for the key to the storage unit, this is the solution.
Knowing how to break a storage lock is essential if this happens to you. You can do it in several ways, but a crowbar is the most common.
A Guide to How to Open a Cylinder Storage Lock
Method 2: Use a Hammer
What you’ll need:
- Hammer
- Flat-head screwdriver
- Safety glasses
This is the easiest way to get into a storage lock cylinder. This is a simple, straightforward method to use but can be dangerous. This method requires a hammer, a flat-head screwdriver, and safety glasses. Put on your safety goggles first. Place the screwdriver into the lock, then pound it with a hammer. You should hear the screwdriver moving inside the lock. Continue to hit it until the screwdriver comes out. Turn the key to unlock.
Method 3: Use a Crowbar
What you’ll need:
- Crowbar
- Use WD-40 or another lubricant
Add some WD-40 to the keyhole if the lock won’t budge. It’s sometimes necessary to twist the crowbar to increase the force needed to break the lock. The lock should open once you have applied enough pressure. Keep trying until you get it.
Method #3: Use a Pry Bar
What you’ll need:
- Pry bar
- Hammer
- Safety glasses
A prybar can open a storage cylinder lock with a keyhole. Apply pressure to the safety by placing the pry bar between the door frame and the storage unit. While doing this, be careful not to damage the door or the frame. You can also break the lock with a hammer. Be careful not to damage anything else. Wear safety glasses when breaking into anything because there’s always the chance that flying debris will cause damage.
Method 4: Cutting Cylinder Lock
What you’ll need:
- Cutting Tool
- Cylinder lock
Sometimes, the only way into a locker is to cut the cylinder lock. You can use a bolt cutter or hacksaw to do this. Remove the safety and use the key to open the locker. When using a tool to cut around locks, be careful as it can easily damage or even cut the lock. When working with locks, always wear safety glasses and gloves.
Method #5: Drilling
What you’ll need:
- Drill
- Drill bit (equal in diameter to the lock cylinder diameter)
- Hammer
- Chisel
- Wedge
Drill the lock cylinder using a drill bit the same diameter as the lock. Drill the metal casing at the back of the safety.
Use a hammer and smack the chisel in the hole. Start by lightly striking it, then increase the force until you can pop the chisel through the lock.
Wedge the metal or wood end into the newly formed opening to keep the door open.
To unlock the container, insert your key in the opening and turn the key.
Method #6: Bottle Jack
What you’ll need:
- Bottle Jack
- Screwdriver
- Wrench
- Pliers
- Hammer
The bottle jack should be placed over the lock cylinder. The bottle jack should sit atop the metal casings surrounding the lock. To loosen the screws holding the top of the Bottle Jack in place:
- Use a screwdriver.
- Remove the top.
- Insert the wrench in the opening on the top of the bottle jack.
- Turn the wrench to loosen up the compression spring.
Use pliers to remove the compression spring from the bottle jack once it is loose. Then, using a hammer, hit the bottle jack’s end until the lock cylinder pops up. If it doesn’t pop out, hit the bottle jack again.
Replace the lock cylinder with a brand-new one. Screw the cap back onto the bottle jack. The compression spring can be tightened with the wrench. Use a screwdriver and replace the bottle jack on the lock cylinder. The compression spring should be compressed by turning the wrench several times. Test the lock and make sure it is working correctly.
Method #7: Jackhammer
What you’ll need:
- Jackhammer
- Chisel
- Wedge
You may have to use a jackhammer if the lock on your cylinder storage is stubborn. This powerful solution should be used only as a final resort. Use a chisel first to break the end of the cylinder. Next, wedge the jackhammer end between the door frame and the cylinder. Then hit it with the hammer. The jackhammer’s force will break the lock. Take care not to damage either the door or the cylinder.
Tips
- Be aware of the surroundings and ensure you are secure before breaking a storage lock cylinder.
- Assist yourself with the break if possible. It will ensure your safety and give you additional support.
- Break the lock with a powerful tool. Use a crowbar or hammer.
- The weakest part of the lock is where you should strike it. Typically, this is the middle of the wave.
- Take your time and be patient. It is possible to break a storage lock cylinder. You’ll get there if you follow these tips!
Can A Locksmith Open A Lock Without Breaking it?
A locksmith can open a door without damaging it. Locksmiths can open locks without hurting them. There are alternative methods to try if you cannot access a locksmith. You can use a bump key.
A bump key is an alternative type that can open locks without needing the original key. To use a bump key, insert the key into the lock. Then give it a sharp hammer tap. The pins in the coil will jump, allowing you to unlock the door.
Try using a plastic wrap or credit card. Insert the plastic wrap or credit card into the lock, then twist until the door opens. If all else fails, trying and breaking the lock is possible. This will most likely cause damage to the safety or the door.
How do you pick a storage cylinder lock?
You’ll need a tension tool and a pick to pick a storage lock. Insert the tension wrench in the bottom of the keyhole, and then apply pressure to the lock as if you were turning the key. The pins will click into place once you have pushed them up with the pick. The wave will start spinning once all nails have been set. Pick an old lock first before trying to pick one in use.
What is the cost of getting locks cut?
The first thing you should do if you are locked out of a storage unit is determine how much it will cost to cut the locks. The majority of storage facilities have a locksmith on staff who will be able to assist you. The cost to have a locksmith cut a wave varies depending on the type and location of the facility. The price is usually between $50 and $100
You can break into your unit in several ways if you cannot afford the lock to be cut. These methods are only used in a desperate situations because they may damage the lock and door. Insert a rubber band or hairpin into the keyhole and twist it until the lock breaks. You can use a screwdriver, chisel, or other tools to pry open the door. It would help if you were careful not to damage any contents.
Conclusion:
It is important to note that even though you know how to open a storage lock cylinder, this method is not recommended. Call a locksmith if you’re locked out of the storage unit. If you are in a position where you have to break into a storage unit to retrieve your belongings, you can use the information provided by this article to safely and efficiently do so. Thank you for reading!
