Anti-Snap Euro Cylinders: Why You Need One

Anti-Snap Euro Cylinders: Why You Need One

If you have a uPVC, composite or timber door with a euro cylinder lock, upgrading to an anti-snap euro cylinder is one of the most practical security improvements you can make: it reduces the risk of forced entry by snapping attacks and increases the chance your door will remain secure after an attempted break-in. This article explains how anti-snap cylinders work, what to look for, and practical DIY and trade advice for selecting and fitting the right product.

What is an anti-snap euro cylinder?

A euro cylinder lock is the common profile barrel used in many British doors and some patio windows. An anti-snap euro cylinder is a purpose-designed version of that barrel which resists the most common method of forced entry: cylinder snapping. Anti-snap cylinders typically include a sacrificial front section that breaks away at the outer face plate, leaving the core locked and the locking mechanism intact; hardened components to resist drilling; and security pins to reduce vulnerability to picking and bumping.

Why cylinder snapping matters

Attackers use basic tools such as pliers to snap weak euro cylinders at a predictable point close to the external face of the door. Once the front section is removed, they can manipulate the cam and operate the locking mechanism directly. A plain, non-security euro cylinder that protrudes beyond the furniture or that has no sacrificial zone can be snapped in seconds; the result is a fast and often undetected entry. An anti-snap euro cylinder prevents that simple attack or severely delays it, increasing the chance the intruder will be disturbed.

Key features to specify

• TS007 3-star accreditation: the industry gold standard for anti-snap performance. Look for products tested to this scheme; many professional installers and insurance policies expect it.
• Sold Secure Silver or Diamond where available: additional independent assurance for higher-risk sites.
• Anti-snap sacrificial section: a deliberately weaker front section which breaks away but leaves the inner core intact; verify the break point is designed to protect the cam.
• Anti-drill hardened pins and steel inserts: protect the core from drill attacks.
• Anti-pick and anti-bump security pins: reduce vulnerability to covert entry techniques.
• Minimal cylinder protrusion: the cylinder should be flush or protrude no more than 3 mm beyond the faceplate; excess projection greatly reduces security.
• Correct profile and length: available as single, double and thumbturn cylinders; ensure compatibility with your multipoint lock and furniture.

Practical DIY: how to measure and replace a euro cylinder lock

Replacing a cylinder is a straightforward job for a competent DIYer. You will need a screwdriver and the correct replacement cylinder. Follow these steps:

• Measure before ordering: with the existing cylinder in place, measure from the central fixing screw (in the door edge) to each end of the cylinder. Typical sizes are given as 35/35, 40/50 etc; the first number is the external length, the second the internal length. Always measure to the nearest millimetre.
• Note the type: determine whether you need a double cylinder, a thumbturn cylinder or an emergency cylinder for communal entrance doors.
• Remove the retaining screw: open the door and locate the long fixing screw on the edge of the door; remove it with a screwdriver while holding the key in the cylinder.
• Align the cam: insert the key and turn it slightly (usually about 10 to 15 degrees) to align the cam so the cylinder can slide out; pull gently to remove the old cylinder.
• Fit the new cylinder: insert the replacement so the cam aligns; replace the fixing screw and check the cylinder does not protrude excessively.
• Test operation: operate the key and any thumbturn several times; check the multipoint locking engages smoothly. Replace handles or furniture and retest.

Trade tip: when replacing, always ensure the cam is central when measuring; if the cam is off-centre the measured lengths will be wrong and the cylinder may bind or protrude. For high-volume work, carry a small set of common sizes and a finishing washer kit for minor adjustments.

Trade considerations and specifying for projects

For trade professionals specifying hardware on new installs and refurbishments, consider the following:

• Specify TS007 3-star for external doors as a minimum; some insurers and local authorities require it for new dwellings and certain tenures.
• Check compatibility with multipoint locks: not all cylinders suit every gearbox and handle set; confirm the cylinder cam type and number of cam rotations required.
• For flats and communal entrances: double cylinder configurations can impede escape. Use emergency or thumbturn cylinders where regulations and practicability require quick egress; confirm with building control for flats above ground floors.
• Consider upgrading the furniture: replacement of handles and fixings with reinforced, anti-drill escutcheons and cylinder guards complements the anti-snap cylinder; a cylinder alone is not always sufficient against a determined attack on the door furniture.
• Record the keying information: for master-keyed systems ensure the anti-snap cylinder can be keyed to your specification; some high-security cylinders come with restricted key profiles for controlled duplication.

Complementary security measures

Fit an anti-snap cylinder as part of a layered security approach. Useful complementary measures include reinforced escutcheons or cylinder guards; a robust multipoint lock; door reinforcement plates; and visible deterrents such as external lighting and CCTV. For sliding patio doors and windows that use euro-style cylinders, use secondary locking devices and ensure glazing and frames are secure.

Common pitfalls to avoid

• Buying the wrong length: a cylinder that protrudes puts its anti-snap features at risk; always measure accurately.
• Assuming all anti-snap products are equal: check independent accreditations more robust than marketing claims.
• Neglecting associated hardware: cheap handles and poorly fitted escutcheons can negate the benefit of a quality cylinder.
• Overlooking fire escape requirements: choose thumbturn or emergency access options where occupant safety dictates.

Recommended Products

Based on this article, you may find these products helpful:

• TL Thumb Turn Euro Cylinder
• Ultion Plus TS007 3* Kitemarked Euro Key & Turn Cylinder
• Multipoint Gearbox GU Old Style
• Patio Door Handle Set - 92PZ White
• Winlock Patio Door Handle Set

Conclusion and next steps

Fitting an anti-snap euro cylinder is a cost-effective way to improve door security for homeowners and professionals alike. Choose cylinders with recognised accreditations such as TS007 3-star; measure accurately for the correct length; and pair the cylinder with reinforced furniture and appropriate multipoint locks. For professional specifications and more detailed technical information, consult our dedicated pillar content on euro cylinder locks at /guides/euro-cylinders.

Next steps: measure your existing cylinder, check the protrusion and accreditation, and decide whether a thumbturn or double cylinder best suits the property. If unsure, contact a qualified locksmith or our trade support team for site-specific advice and recommended products.