How Secure are your Locks?

When you think about securing your home, the first thing that usually springs to mind is ‘locks’. As long as your doors are locked, you should be safe and secure, right? Well theoretically yes, but unfortunately this is not always the case. Sadly there are certain factors that can threaten the security of your locks. In this post we talk about three of the most common, offering solutions so that you really can feel safe and secure in your home.

1. Lock Snapping

Lock snapping, also known as ‘cylinder snapping’ or ‘lock bumping’, is fast becoming a major security concern, according to the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA).

It is a common method used by burglars to gain access through a door fitted with a ‘euro cylinder’, with which nearly all UPVC doors are fitted, as well as a large number of composite and aluminium doors.

Lock snapping involves breaking the cylinder in order to manipulate the lock into opening. The cylinder is the weakest point of any lock mechanism, and snapping it requires no specialist tools or knowledge. According to the MLA, 25% of burglaries involve lock snapping, which is why it is vital to do what you can to prevent it.

So what can you do? Talk to a security professional, preferably MLA approved, in the first instance. They will have extensive knowledge of all the locks available on the market, including those offering the latest cutting edge technology aimed at mitigating common lock related issues. One such lock is the Abloy Protec2 range. Its unique cylinder mechanism uses rotating discs rather than springs and pins, making it virtually pick and snap proof. Its Disc Blocking System is a patented feature that stops attempts to manipulate the discs. Key blanks are also controlled in distribution, which addresses another lock related issue that we discuss in point 3 below.

If lock snapping is something that has been worrying you, perhaps because you’ve heard of break-ins locally that used this method, talk to Barry Bros Security. As MLA approved members we are able to provide access to a comprehensive range of the highest quality anti-snap solutions to suit your particular needs and budget.

2. Incorrectly Fitted Locks

Taking time to choose a high quality lock that meets industry standards and is suitable for purpose is of course the right thing to do, as is investing in the best lock you can afford. However, if you then proceed to fit the lock yourself, or ask someone without professional knowledge and expertise in lock fitting to do it for you, your investment is likely to turn out to be a waste.

Locks that have not been fitted correctly will not provide the security you expect them to. What’s more, euro cylinder locks that have been ill-fitted will be susceptible to lock snapping.

The answer is to extend your investment to professional fitting. Locks and cylinders that have been installed by an expert will provide the protection intended. You will also have the peace of mind that your professional locksmith will be able to confirm whether the lock you have chosen will be suitable for your particular requirements and risk levels. Master Locksmith Association approved companies will deliver the highest levels of knowledge and service in this respect.

3. Copy Keys

When did you last replace your keys? Is it possible that previous owners or tenants still have access to your property? Did your neighbour have a spare key to your home but they’ve now moved away and didn’t return it?

If there is any possibility that copies have been made of your keys without your knowledge, you should not hesitate in discussing your situation with a professional locksmith. They will usually recommend changing your locks and fitting a patented system which involves restricted keys that can only be cut by authorised locksmiths on production of certain documentation.

The Help you Need from MLA Approved Locksmiths

If you are in any doubt over the security of your locks, Barry Bros Security are on hand to help. You can call in to our London showroom for a one-to-one with our expert locksmiths, give us a call or drop us a line. As a Master Locksmith Association approved company we are able to provide you with the top level guidance you need to make sure your home is the safest it can be.