Have you ever been locked out because the door suddenly slammed with the keys inside? Or was it just not yet 9, you hadn't had your coffee and left absent-mindedly? In short, have you ever been out of the house? Well, learn how to do it in case you happen again!
Steps
Method 1 of 5: Through a French Door
Step 1. Borrow a screwdriver from a neighbor
Don't be shy - everyone has at least one and it's just a screwdriver. But if they don't know you, you need to avoid explaining that you are going to "force the front door".
A flat-blade screwdriver would be preferable, but possibly a Phillips screwdriver is fine as well
Step 2. Insert the screwdriver under a window pane
Force it with leverage. Remove it trying not to damage the frame too much. Usually the glass of a French door should be removed more easily than a lock and it will cost less to replace it.
If it doesn't seem to move, try moving the screwdriver to the side. Find the most accessible spot
Step 3. Remove the window glass
Put your hands through the hole trying to reach the door and try to turn the keys to open. If by any chance you broke the glass, be very careful: it is not worth going to the hospital.
Step 4. If you succeed, you will have to worry about rearranging the window, so get some suitable tools
Go to your neighbor, introduce yourself and return the screwdriver
Method 2 of 5: With a Plastic Card
Step 1. Check the lock type
A plastic card works on snap locks - the ones that are part of the handle (and that move back and forth) - but it will be useless if there is a springless latch.
The springless latch usually fits on top of the handle. If the handle moves and the door does not open, the lock is in the closed position and you will need another solution
Step 2. Find a worthless plastic card
Better not to use your credit card because you could break it and you would have to replace it. In other words, if you have a card that has no value, use that first.
Laminated tiles work best because they are more flexible
Step 3. Insert the card between the door and the frame
If there is a bolt on the door it will be more difficult. You can unhinge it with a crowbar but replacing the door will cost you as much as calling a locksmith.
Hold the card against the door frame. Place it on the smaller part of the lock - that of a latch is triangular and must point towards the frame
Step 4. If the triangle part is not facing you, you will need a hook or a long piece of plastic
- Push the card and move the handle. When you hear the lock snap back, pull the handle down and open the door! Now you will have to have the lock replaced (maybe you can choose one without a spring) because it was really too easy!
- This method requires some work. If you don't succeed right away, try again. And if you really can't do it, call a locksmith (or try something else).
Method 3 of 5: If There Is a Chain
Step 1. Open the door
If you can slip your arm into the slot and the chain is close enough, there will be no problem.
Step 2. Thread a rubber band around one ring of the chain
Basically you have to tie one end to the chain and let the other end dangle as shown in the picture.
Attach the elastic or slide it as close to the handle as possible - the side closest to the outer edge of the chain
Step 3. Slip the free loop of the elastic around the handle
Even the tip is enough - you just have to turn the handle or you won't be able to open.
Step 4. Open the door
The movement should force the elastic to move the chain, freeing it. Once the chain has fallen off, open the door again, this time without any problems.
Method 4 of 5: Through the Garage
Step 1. Find a hanger
If you don't have one in your car or garage, go to a neighbor and borrow one, which is metal of course. Alternatively, look for a strong but malleable metal wire.
Step 2. Bend it into a hollow, but don't touch the hook part
The arm should be as long as possible. If necessary, you can unroll the hanger if the metal wire is intertwined.
Step 3. Insert the arm through the top of the garage door
In some cases, it won't be possible or very difficult. As soon as you try it you will understand if it is possible to proceed.
Perform this action in the central part of the door where the mechanics are usually located. You're trying to reach the latch at the top of the metal bar
Step 4. Grab the latch and pull towards you
This manual mechanism is usually found on the top and is what causes the door to open automatically - perhaps you didn't know that. Once you are able to pull it, the door will magically open.
If you can't see it, try using your touch to find the metal bar and try to reach the mechanic on it. As soon as you can feel the protruding end you will have found your access key
Method 5 of 5: Other Methods
Step 1. Find an open window to switch through
If it's on the second floor it will take a little imagination. Is there a fire escape? A trellis? A tree to climb?
Remember that you don't have to put your health at risk. If there is even the hypothesis that you might fall and break your neck, don't try
Step 2. If you have shingles on the roof and a ladder, you could go up
Remove the shingles to figure out what's underneath. If nothing is fixed, try folding and turning. Or use the roof to get to a window too far from the ground floor.
If you don't stand a chance, forget it. You don't want it to rain in your house all the time
Step 3. Break the handle with a hammer
This solution should be considered "exclusively" in an emergency - alternatively wait for a locksmith. After a couple of well-aimed hits, the handle should drop, creating an opening and allowing you to get to the lock.
Advice
- If you live in a building, call the landlord during office hours. If it's 3 am, find a place to sleep and call him the next morning.
- Keep a spare key somewhere safe or leave it with someone you trust to avoid these situations.
Warnings
- Any damage it causes to the house / door / lock will need to be fixed. If in doubt, call a lock expert and wait.
- The police will have a hard time believing that you are trying to break into your own home this way. Be prepared to show the title deed or tell them where you have stored it.
