Have you ever found yourself locked out of your storm door and had no idea how to get in? It can be very frustrating when this happens, especially if you don’t know how to access it from the outside. Opening a locked storm door is not an impossible task, however. In this blog post, we will show you step-by-step instructions on how to open a locked storm door from the outside without any damage or risk of harm.
We’ll walk you through different methods for unlocking your stuck and uncooperative doors so that you can regain entry into your home with ease!
Having a storm door that is locked from the outside can be quite inconvenient, especially if you are at your front or back entrance and no key can be found. This is why it’s important to know how to open a locked storm door when outside of it. Whether you have accidentally left the key inside or had trouble with a frozen lock, knowing this procedure could get you safely into your home without much damage in just a few simple steps!
Why May You Want to Open a Locked Storm Door From the Outside?
1. To Provide Emergency Access to a Home
One of the most important reasons why you may want to open a locked storm door from the outside is to provide emergency access to a home. If someone is trapped inside the house and unable to unlock the door, breaking it down can be necessary for rescue operations or to prevent further danger.
2. To Allow Safe Entry Into Your Home
Another common reason for needing to open a locked storm door from the outside is to allow safe entry into your home. If you are locked out and do not have a spare key, it can be difficult to enter your house without damaging the door or risking personal safety.
3. To Deter Burglars
In some cases, opening a locked storm door from the outside can also help deter burglars by making it difficult for them to gain entry into your home. This can be especially true if there is an alarm system connected to the door, as a burglar would have to find another way in or risk being caught in the act.
Regardless of why you may need to open a locked storm door from the outside, it is important to understand how to do it safely and responsibly. Using the wrong tools or techniques can lead to serious damage to the door and potentially put you in danger, so it is best to know how to properly open a locked storm door before attempting it.
How to Open a Locked Storm Door From the Outside in 6 Easy Steps
Step 1: Gather the Materials Required
One of the most important things you need to open a locked storm door from the outside is an emergency key. If your door has an inside lock, you will also need either a flathead screwdriver or a Phillips-head screwdriver.
Step 2: Find the Emergency Key Hole
On the exterior of your storm door, there should be an emergency keyhole located near where the handle is. It should be approximately two inches in length and shaped like a keyhole.
Step 3: Insert the Emergency Key
Take your emergency key and insert it into the emergency key hole. Turn it clockwise until you feel resistance, then press down firmly. You should hear a clicking sound as the lock opens. Also make sure you have the right key for your brand of storm door.
Step 4: Open the Door
Once you’ve opened the lock, you can now open the door by pushing it inwards with your hand. This should be done slowly and carefully to avoid any damage to the door or frame. Make sure to check the door and frame for any damage after opening.
Step 5: Secure the Door
If you want to make sure the door stays open, you can use a latch or other locking device. This will ensure that no one can enter through your storm door without your permission. Also make sure to properly secure the frame and door with locks or other security measures.
Step 6: Lock the Door From the Inside
Finally, once you’ve opened the storm door from the outside, you should always remember to lock it from inside before leaving. This will ensure that no one can enter your home without your permission.
With these 6 easy steps, you should now have a better understanding of how to open a locked storm door from the outside. Follow these steps carefully and make sure to use the right tools for the job. This way, you can be sure that your home is safe and secure.
Some Extra Tips to Open a Locked Storm Door From the Outside
1. Do Not Use Force
This is very important – do not attempt to open a locked storm door from the outside by using any kind of force. Doing so can damage the frame and lock, making it even more difficult or impossible to open.
2. Check for Hidden Keys
Sometimes homeowners will hide keys on the property in case of an emergency, so be sure to check around the area for any hidden keys that may be able to open the storm door.
3. Contact a Professional
If all else fails, you should contact a professional locksmith who can help you get your locked storm door open from the outside. They will have specialized tools and experience that can make this task easier and less risky than attempting it yourself.
4. Change Your Lock
Once the door is open, it is a good idea to change your lock so that you can be sure no one else will have access to the door in the future. This is especially important if you were not able to find the key and had to contact a locksmith to get it opened.
With these tips, you can successfully open a locked storm door from the outside without damaging it or risking your safety. Just remember to never use force, check for hidden keys, contact a professional if necessary, and change the lock once it is open. Good luck!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Precautions Should I Take?
When attempting to open a locked storm door from the outside, it is important to take precautionary measures so as not to cause any damage. It is recommended that you wear gloves and eye protection when performing this task, as metal edges can be sharp. Additionally, if the lock appears to be stuck or jammed, cease all attempts at unlocking it and contact a professional locksmith for assistance.
What Tools Do I Need?
A screwdriver and/or an Allen wrench may be required in order to open the lock depending on the manufacturer of your storm door. Additionally, you may need an adjustable or pipe wrench if the lock is corroded or rusted in place. In this case, lubricating oil should also be used to reduce friction and make unlocking the door easier.
What Should I Do If I Can Not Open the Lock?
If you are unable to open a locked storm door from the outside, you should contact a professional locksmith or an experienced handyman for assistance. They will likely have the appropriate tools and knowledge required to open your lock without causing any damage to your storm door. In some cases, the locksmith may be able to replace your lock with a new one in order to regain access.
If all else fails, you can also consider replacing your entire storm door if it is more cost-effective than repairing or replacing the lock. Replacing the door will ensure that you have secure access to your home in the future.
Can I Open a Locked Storm Door from the Inside?
Yes, you can open a locked storm door from the inside if it is equipped with an interior lock or handle. However, you should always make sure that your doors are securely locked when not in use to ensure safety and security.
Conclusion
In conclusion, opening a locked storm door from the outside is a simple and relatively easy task. You can use a variety of tools ranging from the basic screwdriver or pliers to more advanced methods like using a bump key or making your own lockpicking tools. It may take some practice to get it right, but with just a few steps you can easily gain access to your storm door without compromising security.
Now you know how to open a locked storm door from the outside! Remember that if you’re ever stuck and unsure of what steps to take when opening these doors, it’s best to consult with an experienced locksmith who is knowledgeable in the specific brand of door lock you’re trying to unlock. They can provide helpful guidance and information as well as additional options for unlocking the door if needed. As long as you take precautionary steps and choose the correct tool for the job, opening a locked storm door from outside should be relatively straightforward.