Stop Burglars Before They Start
Lock snapping is one of the most common burglary methods in the UK. Upgrade to anti-snap cylinders and protect your Gloucester home.
Is Your Home at Risk?
If your home has uPVC or composite doors with standard euro cylinders, it could be vulnerable to lock snapping. This burglary technique accounts for a significant proportion of break-ins in the UK, and it takes just seconds to carry out.
What Is Lock Snapping?
Lock snapping exploits a design weakness in standard euro cylinder locks. The cylinder sits in the door with part of it protruding outside. By gripping this exposed section and applying force, a burglar can snap the cylinder in two.
Once snapped, they can use a tool to manipulate the remaining mechanism and unlock the door. The whole process can take under a minute and makes little noise.
Time to snap a standard cylinder
Of break-ins use this method
Of UK homes still vulnerable
How Anti-Snap Locks Protect You
Anti-snap cylinders are designed specifically to defeat this attack method. They incorporate several protective features:
Sacrificial Cut Line
If attacked, the outer section snaps off at a predetermined point, leaving the locking mechanism intact and secure.
Hardened Steel Pins
Anti-drill pins prevent attackers from drilling through the cylinder to access the mechanism.
Anti-Pick Design
Security pins inside the cylinder make picking extremely difficult.
Anti-Bump Technology
Prevents the 'bump key' attack method that can defeat some standard locks.
What to Look for in Anti-Snap Locks
Not all 'security' cylinders are equal. When your locksmith recommends a product, look for these standards:
Key Standards to Look For
- TS007 3-Star — The highest level of cylinder security testing
- SS312 Diamond — Sold Secure accreditation for attack resistance
- Kitemark — BSI certification for quality and performance
An MLA locksmith will be able to advise you on suitable products and ensure they're fitted correctly for maximum protection.
Why Professional Installation Matters
Even the best anti-snap cylinder won't protect you if it's the wrong size or fitted incorrectly. Professional installation ensures:
Correct sizing — A cylinder that's too long creates a new weak point for attackers
Quality products — MLA locksmiths use reputable brands, not cheap imitations
Proper fitting — Secure fixing prevents the cylinder being pushed out
Full assessment — Checking all entry points, not just the front door
What Is the Master Locksmiths Association?
The Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) is the UK's leading trade body for the locksmith industry. MLA members undergo rigorous vetting, including criminal record checks and skill assessments. When you choose an MLA-certified locksmith, you can be confident you're dealing with a qualified, trustworthy professional.
Learn more about our vetting processTypical Price Ranges
Anti-snap lock installation is one of the most cost-effective security upgrades you can make. Here are approximate prices:
| Service | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Anti-snap cylinder (supplied & fitted) | £80 – £150 |
| 3-star rated cylinder (premium) | £120 – £200 |
| Multiple doors (per additional door) | £60 – £120 |
| Full security survey | Often included or £30 – £50 |
Note: These are indicative prices only. Your locksmith will assess your doors and provide a specific quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is lock snapping?
Lock snapping is a burglary technique where the cylinder of a euro lock is broken by applying force to it. Standard cylinders have a weak point that allows them to be snapped, giving access to the mechanism inside. It's quick, quiet, and requires minimal skill, making it a popular method among burglars.
How do I know if my locks are vulnerable?
If you have uPVC doors with euro cylinder locks (the type where you can see a keyhole on both sides), and they're more than 10-15 years old, they're likely standard cylinders without anti-snap protection. A locksmith can inspect your locks and advise you.
Do anti-snap locks make my home burglar-proof?
No lock makes a home completely burglar-proof, but anti-snap locks significantly reduce the risk of this common break-in method. They're an important layer of security, particularly for homes with uPVC doors. Combined with other measures, they make your home a much less attractive target.
Will new locks work with my existing keys?
No, new cylinders come with new keys. Your locksmith will provide you with a set of keys for each new lock fitted. If you have multiple doors, you can often have them keyed alike so one key works on all of them.
Protect Your Home from Lock Snapping
Upgrade to anti-snap locks fitted by an MLA-certified locksmith in Gloucester.