Drilling a lock on patio door

[xyz123]

Hi, we seem to have lost keys to patio door which is lo led closed (original patio door leading to garden but now leads to a conservatory)

Having never done this before, how easy is it to drill out locksl and will it fix the problem? Obviously youtube has videos which make it look very easy but is there any chance of door glass breaking or any issues with putting replacement lock after?

Thanks

[Gareth79]

Is it a snap-resistant lock? If not then it might be easier to snap it, you'll probably have to remove the door handles to get enough lock body to wrench.

If you do drill then I can't see any risk of breaking glass or fitting a new lock, the lock units are self-contained and will pull out in one piece. I'd suggest buying a decent quality metal drill bit though. If it's marketed as "drill resistant" then you might have problems unless you've found a technique explained.

Edited by Gareth79 on Sunday 5th July 21:09

[WrekinCrew]

Won't any hardened pins or ball bearings be on the outside?
If so drilling from the inside should be easier.

[xyz123]

I dont think it's anti snap. I tried to take the handle off but the screws just keep turning. The cylinder protudes even without the handle removed. Tried to snap it with a pliers but no luck. Maybe I am not applying enough force. Couple of pictures from inside.

[J6542]

That looks like a cheap brass barrel. That should drill out easily with a couple of 5mm drills and then a 10mm. Just don’t overheat the drill bits and use a little oil.

[Russet Grange]

Probably would snap but locksmiths have a very specific tool for the job. A hefty and tight fitting breaker thing.

[MDT]

Mole grips clamped on tight to the top and bottom of the lock on the inside and you will be shocked how easy it gives way. I had to do this on a place I rented out when needing to replace a lock on the back door. Really was a "wow" moment how easy it was.

[Simon_GH]

Use used a small drill bit 2-3 mm) when I needed to overcome a failed lock - just drilling the pins was enough to release it.