Storm doors are essential in protecting your home from harsh weather conditions and intruders. But what happens when you accidentally lock yourself out while trying to enjoy the beautiful breeze outside? It can be frustrating to be stranded outside, especially if you have nowhere else to go.
Well, don’t worry. In this blog post, we will show you how to easily open a locked storm door from outside. Read on for some handy tips and tricks on how to open locked storm door from outside.
Can You Open the Locked Storm Door from Outside?
Have you ever found yourself locked out of your house with no key in hand? Well, the good news is that it is possible to open a locked storm door from outside, although the method you use will depend on the type of lock that the door is equipped with.
If the lock features a keyhole on the exterior, then you will need a key. However, if the lock doesn’t have a keyhole, you can still try to remove the interior knob or lever and use a tool like a screwdriver to turn the locking mechanism. In any case, the key to opening a locked storm door from outside is to keep calm and to have some basic knowledge of lock mechanisms on hand.
Why Should You Open a Locked Storm Door from Outside?
As the weather starts to heat up, you might be eager to open your home and let in the fresh air. However, if you have a locked storm door, it can put a damper on your plans. Instead of trying to jimmy the lock from the inside, why not open it outside? Not only will it save you time and frustration, but it can also prevent damaging the lock or door mechanism.
Plus, opening the storm door from the outside allows you to test the strength and durability of the lock to ensure it’s working properly. So, next time you struggle with a locked storm door, remember that opening it from outside is the way to go.
How to Open Locked Storm Door from Outside: Tips and Tricks
1. Use a Credit Card
One of the easiest ways to open a locked storm door from outside is by using a credit card. However, this trick only works if the door latch is not fully engaged or if the door is not deadbolted. Begin by sliding the credit card between the door and the frame near the lock. Once the card is in place, try to wiggle it and push it toward the lock. If the lock mechanism is not too secure, it should pop open without much hassle.
2. Coat Hanger Trick
Another great way to unlock a storm door from outside is to use a coat hanger. Like the credit card trick, this method only works if the door latch is not fully engaged. Take a wire coat hanger and straighten it out. Bend it into a hook shape at one of the ends. Next, slide the hooked end of the hanger between the door and the frame near the lock. Maneuver the hanger until you hook the latch and pull it open.
3. Use a Screwdriver
If the lock on the storm door is engaged completely, you can use a screwdriver to unlock it from outside. Take the screwdriver and insert it above the lock mechanism. Make sure the screwdriver is straight and push it towards the latch. Rotate the screwdriver in a clockwise direction until you hear the latch retracting. If the lock mechanism is stubborn, apply some pressure using the screwdriver. Once it unlocks, push the door to open it.
4. Try a Bobby Pin
Another unconventional way to unlock the storm door from the outside is by using a bobby pin. This method works like the credit card trick but with some extra finesse and patience. Start by taking a bobby pin and straightening it out until it is slightly bent at one end.
Next, insert the bent end of the bobby pin in the small gap between the door and the frame near the lock. Carefully maneuver the pin until it reaches the latch, and try to lift it open. If you’re lucky, this trick should unlock your storm door from outside without much effort.
5. Use a Pen Knife
Using a pen knife can be an effective way to get into a locked storm door from outside. Take a penknife and insert it into the small gap between the door and frame near the lock. Carefully press the knife against the lock mechanism until you feel it engage with the latch. Make sure to apply some pressure so that you lift the latch open. Once done, push on the door to unlock it.
6. Tug the Door
If all other methods fail, you can try tugging the door to open it. Start by putting your shoulder against the door and pushing hard while turning the doorknob clockwise. This trick might take some force but should eventually unlock the storm door from outside.
7. Contact a Professional Locksmith
If all else fails, you can call a professional locksmith to help you open the locked storm door. They have the tools and expertise to unlock any type of door without damaging it. A locksmith will also come in handy if the mechanism or lock of the door is broken or damaged. They can safely replace the lock or repair it depending on the severity of the damage.
5 Considerations Things When You Need to Open Locked Storm Door from Outside
1. Determine the Type of Lock on Your Storm Door
The first step to opening a locked storm door from the outside is to determine the type of lock installed on the door. Several locks can be used on storm doors, including keyed locks, deadbolts, and lever handles. Depending on your lock type, you may need different tools or methods to open it.
2. Check for Obstructions
Before opening a locked storm door from the outside, it is important to check for any obstructions blocking access to the lock. This could include furniture, plants, or other objects preventing you from reaching the lock. If any obstructions are in your way, you must move them before proceeding.
3. Use Appropriate Tools
Once you have determined what type of lock is installed on your storm door and cleared away any obstructions, you will need to use appropriate tools to open it. For example, if your storm door has a keyed lock, then you will need a key or a pick set to open it.
If your storm door has a deadbolt, then you will need an Allen wrench or screwdriver to turn it. It is important to make sure that you use the right tool for each type of lock to avoid damaging the lock or door frame.
4. Be Patient
Opening a locked storm door from the outside can be tricky and time-consuming, so it is important to be patient when attempting this task. Take your time and ensure you are using the right tools and techniques to succeed with minimal damage to your property.
5. Call an Expert
If all else fails and you still cannot open your locked storm door from the outside, then it may be time to call an expert locksmith who can help with this task quickly and professionally without causing any damage to your property or doors.
Benefits of Opening a Locked Storm Door from Outside
Opening a locked storm door from outside can be a game-changer for homeowners. Imagine getting locked out of your home due to a sudden gust of wind or accidentally leaving your keys inside. With the ability to open your locked storm door from outside, you can easily regain entry to your home without needing a locksmith or causing any damage to your property.
Furthermore, it can provide an added level of security as it allows you to quickly enter your home in case of emergencies, such as a fire or medical emergency. All in all, investing in a locked storm door that can open from outside can save you time, and money and provide peace of mind, knowing that you have a secure and efficient way to access your home at all times.
Conclusion
In conclusion, opening a locked storm door from outside may seem like a hassle, but with the right tricks, it can be effortless. You don’t have to restrict yourself to specific parts of your property because of a locked door. Credit cards, coat hangers, and screwdriver tricks are some options you can try.
Remember to be gentle to avoid causing any damage to the door or lock mechanism. And if all else fails, call a professional locksmith to save the day. Thanks for reading our post about how to open locked storm door from outside.
