A situation may arise that requires you to disable a lock on your home or business. Maybe there is a door that you use infrequently that you wish to protect from tampering. Perhaps someone with ill-intent has obtained a copy of your key, and you need to safeguard yourself and your belongings. Whatever the case, there are a variety of simple methods available to disable most locks temporarily or permanently. Here are five things you can try to put your locks out of commission.

Lockout Keys

Lockout keys are a security device commonly sold at many hardware stores. This is a tool shaped like a key that comes apart into two pieces. Once inserted into a lock, the pieces separate. You are left with a portion of the lockout key, while another part remains in the keyway. No key can enter the lock while this part is in place. To remove it, you simply re-insert the external part of the tool, interlocking the two pieces for removal. Lockout keys are a practical, non-destructive means of preventing access to a lock.

Keyhole Locks

Keyhole locks are another common lock security device that can be sourced easily from most home improvement stores. Though there are a variety of styles available, most keyhole locks fit over the face of your lock and must be unlocked with a key of their own. This can be a useful solution to obstruct the lock altogether and adds an additional layer of security thanks to the need for a second key.

Kill Keys

A kill key is a last resort for disabling a lock. Like a lockout key, kill keys look like a blank key that can be inserted into most keyways. The main difference is that the portion of the kill key that would normally be used to grip and turn a normal key is designed to break off. This leaves a piece of the key stuck permanently in the keyway of the lock. This method will prevent any key from entering the keyway, but removing the broken portion of the kill key can be tricky—and could even require help from a professional locksmith.

Glue

An ample application of a product like super glue will seize a lock for good. This method is best used in situations when you’re certain you’ll never want to open a lock again. Try squeezing glue into the keyway and apply more on the other moving parts of the lock. For added security, insert a key into the glued-up keyway and break off the grip. You can be sure that this lock is out of commission for good.

Spray Foam

As with the glue method, a generous application of spray foam is a simple means of permanently disabling a lock. Sprayed directly into the lock’s mechanism, the foam will expand and harden, preventing any movement of the core and effectively destroying the lock.

If you’ve tried one of the methods above and need help replacing your locks, or if you simply have questions about improving lock security, the pros at Dublin Mobile Locksmiths are here to help. Our experienced locksmiths are ready to assist residents and business owners in the Dublin, Ohio area with all locksmithing and security needs. Contact us today.