uPVC doors are one of the most popular and common types of doors in the UK. They are made of unplasticised polyvinyl chloride, a durable and low-maintenance material that can withstand various weather conditions and impacts. They are also energy-efficient, noise-reducing, and aesthetically pleasing.
However, uPVC doors are not immune to security threats. They can be vulnerable to break-ins, especially if they are fitted with low-quality or outdated locks. Burglars can use various methods to bypass or break the locks on uPVC doors, such as:
- Snapping: This is when the burglar applies force to the cylinder of the lock, causing it to snap and expose the mechanism. This can allow the burglar to turn the lock and open the door.
- Bumping: This is when the burglar inserts a specially cut key into the lock and taps it with a hammer or a screwdriver. This can cause the pins inside the cylinder to jump and align, allowing the lock to be turned and opened.
- Picking: This is when the burglar uses tools such as picks, rakes, or tension wrenches to manipulate the pins or discs inside the cylinder. This can also allow the lock to be turned and opened.
- Drilling: This is when the burglar uses a drill to make holes in the lock and damage the mechanism. This can also allow the lock to be turned and opened.
If your uPVC doors are not secured with the best locks, you may risk losing your security and peace of mind. You may also risk violating the insurance or legal requirements for your property.
That is why you should choose the best locks for your uPVC doors. But how do you choose the best locks for your uPVC doors? What are some factors and features that you should consider when choosing the best locks for your uPVC doors?
To help you choose the best locks for your uPVC doors, Access Asap Locksmiths, a local and professional locksmith service in Altrincham and Wilmslow, shares some factors and features that you should consider when choosing the best locks for your uPVC doors.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Locks for Your uPVC Doors
When choosing the best locks for your uPVC doors, you should consider the following factors:
- Type: There are different types of locks that can be used on uPVC doors, such as:
- Euro cylinder locks: These are the most common and standard locks for uPVC doors. They consist of a cylinder that fits into a hole on the door and a key that operates the cylinder. They are easy to install and replace, but they are also prone to snapping, bumping, picking, and drilling.
- Multipoint locks: These are locks that have multiple locking points along the edge of the door. They are operated by a single handle or key and provide more security and stability than single point locks. However, they are also more complex and expensive to install and replace.
- Grade: There are different grades of locks that indicate their quality and security level, such as:
- British Standard: This is a certification that shows that the lock meets the minimum requirements of the British Standards Institution (BSI). The lock should have a kitemark logo and a BS number on it. The most relevant standards for uPVC door locks are BS EN 1303:2015 and BS 3621:2017.
- Sold Secure: This is a certification that shows that the lock has been tested and approved by the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA). The lock should have a Sold Secure logo and a rating on it. The ratings are Diamond, Gold, Silver, and Bronze, with Diamond being the highest and Bronze being the lowest.
- Secured by Design: This is a certification that shows that the lock has been tested and approved by the Police. The lock should have a Secured by Design logo and a statement on it. The statement should say “Police Preferred Specification” or “Police Approved”.
- Features: There are different features of locks that can enhance their security and performance, such as:
- Anti snap: This is a feature that prevents the lock from snapping by having a sacrificial section or a reinforced bar on the cylinder. This can stop the burglar from accessing the mechanism and opening the door.
- Anti bump: This is a feature that prevents the lock from bumping by having special pins or discs that resist the impact of the bump key. This can stop the burglar from aligning the pins or discs and opening the lock.
- Anti pick: This is a feature that prevents the lock from picking by having complex or unique pins or discs that are hard to manipulate. This can stop the burglar from picking the lock and opening it.
- Anti drill: This is a feature that prevents the lock from drilling by having hardened steel or anti-drill plates on the cylinder. This can stop the burglar from drilling the lock and opening it.
Features to Look for in the Best Locks for Your uPVC Doors
When choosing the best locks for your uPVC doors, you should look for the following features:
- Euro cylinder locks with anti snap, anti bump, anti pick, and anti drill features: These are locks that combine the ease and simplicity of euro cylinder locks with the security and protection of anti snap, anti bump, anti pick, and anti drill features. They can provide you with the best of both worlds and prevent the most common methods of breaking in through your uPVC doors.
- Multipoint locks with British Standard, Sold Secure, or Secured by Design certification: These are locks that have multiple locking points along the edge of the door and have been tested and approved by the BSI, the MLA, or the Police. They can provide you with more security and stability than single point locks and meet the minimum requirements of the insurance or legal authorities.
Why Choose Access Asap Locksmiths
If you are looking for the best locks for your uPVC doors, look no further than Access Asap Locksmiths. We are a local and professional locksmith service in Altrincham and Wilmslow that offers a wide range of services, such as:
- Locks
- Anti snap lock upgrades
- Master key systems
We have over 20 years of experience in the locksmith industry and we are fully insured, DBS checked, and accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association. We use only the best quality products and tools to ensure your safety and satisfaction. We also offer competitive prices, free quotes, and no call out fees.
We are available 24/7 and we can reach you within 30 minutes of your call. We cover all areas of Altrincham and Wilmslow, as well as surrounding areas. We can complete most jobs in one visit.
Don’t compromise on the quality of your locks. Contact Access Asap Locksmiths today and let us take care of them for you. Access Asap Locksmiths is the locksmith Altrincham and Wilmslow residents trust and recommend.
