What is Lock Snapping? – Find Out How To Prevent it

Lock snapping is a type of lock picking that is used to break into cylinder locks. While it may sound like something out of a movie, this method of breaking and entering has become increasingly popular in recent years. In this article, we'll discuss what lock snapping is, how burglars use this technique to break into homes, and what you can do to prevent it.

What is lock snapping?

Lock snapping is a type of lock picking that is used to break into cylinder locks. While it may sound like something out of a movie, this method of breaking and entering has become increasingly popular in recent years. 

In this article, we'll discuss what lock snapping is, how burglars use this technique to break into homes, and what you can do to prevent it.

Lock snapping is a relatively new technique, and has only become popular in the past few years. Burglars typically use a torque wrench or screwdriver to snap the cylinder in half, allowing them to open the door without having to pick up the lock. This type of attack is often used on euro cylinder locks, which are commonly found on uPVC doors.

Lock snapping is a serious problem because it allows burglars to gain entry to homes without having to pick the lock or use force, making it very difficult to detect.

If you think your home might be at risk, we recommend changing your locks as soon as possible. Keep reading to learn more about how you can prevent lock snapping.

The Method Of Lock Snapping – How burglars snap the lock

Burglars snap cylinder locks in half using a torque wrench or screwdriver. This allows them to open the door without having to pick up the lock. Lock snapping is a relatively new technique, and has only become popular in the past few years.

To prevent lock snapping, we recommend changing your locks as soon as possible.

How an Anti-Snap Lock can Prevent Burglary

An anti-snap lock is a type of cylinder lock that is designed to resist being snapped in half by a burglar. This type of lock is becoming increasingly popular as more people become aware of the dangers of a lock snapping.

There are a few different features that make an anti-snap lock more resistant to attack. Firstly, the cylinder is usually made from a stronger material such as brass or stainless steel. This makes it more difficult for a burglar to snap the cylinder in half. Secondly, the pins in an anti-snap lock are usually shorter than those in a standard cylinder lock. This means that even if a burglar does manage to snap the cylinder, they will not be able to push the pins out of alignment and open the lock.

The best way to prevent a burglar from breaking into your home is to install an anti-snap lock on all your external doors. If you already have a cylinder lock fitted, you can replace it with an anti-snap version. We recommend that you get a locksmith to do this for you, as they will be able to advise you on the best type of lock for your door and fit it correctly.

What Locks are at Risk of Lock Snapping?

Locks that are most vulnerable to lock snapping are euro cylinder locks. This is due to a design flaw that makes them easy to snap in half. Other types of locks at risk include 5 lever deadlocks, night latches and 3 lever mortice locks. If you are unsure whether your locks are vulnerable, you should seek advice from a locksmith or your local police force.

How to tell you have a Euro-Cylinder Lock Fitted

To tell if you have a Euro cylinder lock fitted, look for the following signs:

-The lock has a cylindrical shape

-The lock is fitted with two screws at the back

-There is a small hole located at the top of the keyhole, which is used to insert the key

If you have a Euro cylinder lock fitted, it is important to take precautions against lock snapping. Euro-cylinder locks are the most common type of lock used in the UK, and are also the type of lock most vulnerable to this type of attack. To protect your home, we recommend changing your locks as soon as possible.

How Do I Know If I Have Anti-Snap Locks?

It is important to know if you have anti-snap locks fitted to your doors, as these are the most effective way to prevent lock snapping. Here are a few ways that you can tell if you have anti-snap locks fitted:

Check for the BS3621 Kitemark on the faceplate of the lock - this is a British Standard that indicates that the lock has been tested to a high standard and is resistant to attack.

Look for a 'split' or 'scorpion' key - this is a type of key that is specifically designed for anti-snap locks and is less likely to be snapped in half than a standard key.

Check that the screws holding the faceplate in place are at least 25mm long - this makes it more difficult for a burglar to remove the faceplate and access the mechanism of the lock.

If you have a UPVC door, look for the CE Mark and/or the 'BSI kitemark' logo on the lock - these logos indicate that the lock meets European standards for security.

Installing anti-snap locks is the best way to protect your home from lock snapping, so it is important to know if you have them fitted. If you are unsure, you should seek advice from a locksmith or your local police force.

What Standard Euro Cylinder Lock Should I Fit

There are a few things to consider when deciding which Euro cylinder lock to fit. The most important thing is the size of the lock. Euro-cylinder locks come in a variety of sizes, but the most popular size is 40mm. This is because it offers a good balance between security and practicality. Another thing to consider is the material that the lock is made from. Brass and stainless steel are two of the most popular materials, as they are both strong and durable. Finally, you should also consider the price of the lock. Euro cylinder locks vary in price, depending on the size, material, and brand. However, you can usually find a good quality lock for around £20-£30. When choosing a Euro cylinder lock, it is important to strike a balance between security and practicality. The 40mm size is the most popular, as it offers a good compromise between these two factors. Brass and stainless steel are two of the most popular materials for Euro cylinder locks, as they are both strong and durable. You can usually find a good quality lock for around £20-£30.

Incorrect Correct Ways of fitting a Euro Cylinder Lock

One of the most common mistakes people make when installing a euro cylinder lock is using the screws that come with the door. These screws are usually too short, and will not provide sufficient hold to keep the lock in place. It is important to use longer screws, preferably ones that are at least 25mm long.

Another common mistake is not using a washer between the euro cylinder and the door. This can cause the lock to loosen over time, making it easier for a burglar to snap the cylinder in half. It is important to use a washer to prevent this from happening.

Overtightening the screws can strip the threads, making it difficult to remove the lock in the future. It is important to tighten the screws just enough so that they are snug, but not so tight that they strip the threads.

Finally, using the wrong type of screw can damage the euro cylinder. Drywall screws, for example, are not designed for use with euro cylinders and can easily strip the threads. It is important to use the correct type of screw, such as a brass or stainless steel screw.