We have a 3 point lock in a steel fronted exterior wooden door. The euro lock had slipped so I pulled it all out and reset it, and screwed it all back in. Not being an expert (d'oh!) I didn't check the tracks that link the main lock to the top and bottoms. Now I can lock and unlock the main lock but they're not connected to the 3 point system. No real biggie, except the top and bottom bolts have shifted across and now I can't open the door because they've slid into the frame, and as they were unconnected to the main lock, I can't remove them. The only thing I can see is to take the door off its hinges, but will that work if the bolts are slid across? Is it a case of crowbarring it out of and replacing the frame?
Thanks!
Are you a tradesperson and able to answer this question?
I would suggest trying something like this in the gap first:
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Inflatable-Air-Bag-Pump-Wedge-Door-Windows-Locksmith-Entry-Tool-Car-Door-Open-vi/273834894091?hash=item3fc1d4e30b:m:maldtXcvkCjfZMsVrweuadg
It's a small pocket that you pump up which spreads the door from the jam. It's cheap, clean and easy and may solve the problem with much less damage.
Failing that, you are probably into crowbar territory.
I am agreement with the response you have had, it's a tricky job without potentially causing damage as you'll need to create a big enough gap to access the locking points (bolts as you've described), fingers crossed it works out for you.
The air bags are a great addition to your tool bag (I have 2) but the major problem I see with this situation is that the door is timber with a steel front,did I read that correctly? Therefore there will be a lot less flexibility in frame and door compared to a Upvc door and it will be harder to flex in order to create a gap.Can a 1mm cutter disc in a small grinder be used to cut through the shoot bolts ?
Answered17 June 2019
1
Anonymous user
You have locked the door in an inoperable position the door is now not able to open you can only open with major damage
I would hire a locksmith as resetting your eurolock would not cause this problem.
A locksmith would be able to gain entry without causing any damage..
There is packing all down your lockside and you would not be able to move the door jamb and taking the door of the hinges could create a few problems
With it only being a 3 point locking door. With centre latch and 2 shootbolts. (Center latch is unlockable) there should be enough room /give in the door to be abke to try slide in a S Shaped piece of flat metal to try catch under the shootbolt and pull it up he door from its locator on both bolts thus freeing the door. (I have done this before. This is all dependant on how much access you have to the door edge. ( it will be difficult if in a tight foyer sitting wall to wall. Alternatively try the airbag method already suggested.
