Problem and fix
How to secure a back door: a practical checklist
Short answer
Start with the cylinder: fit an anti snap cylinder rated TS007 3 star or equivalent. Then make sure the multi point lock fully engages when you lift the handle, check the glass beads are on the inside, keep keys away from the door and add lighting outside. Most back doors can be made far more secure without replacing the whole door.
Why back doors matter
Back doors are out of sight of the street, often in a side passage or garden, and many are older than the front door because they get less attention when a house is updated. That combination makes them the easier target. The good news is that the weak points are well known and most can be put right in an afternoon by a fitter.
The checklist
- Cylinder: replace older euro cylinders with an anti snap type rated TS007 3 star, or a 1 star cylinder with 2 star handles.
- Lock engagement: lift the handle fully and turn the key every time. A multi point lock only works when the hooks and bolts are thrown.
- Door alignment: if you have to force the handle up, the door has dropped and the locking points may not be engaging. Get the hinges adjusted.
- Glazing: beads should be on the inside. Laminated glass on the outer pane resists breaking.
- Hinges: on outward opening doors, hinge bolts or security hinges stop the door being lifted off.
- Keys: never leave keys in the lock or near the door, and keep car keys out of sight.
- Outside: a motion sensor light and a locked side gate remove cover.
Upgrade or replace?
If the frame is sound and the door closes square, a cylinder and hardware upgrade gets you most of the benefit. Replacement makes sense when the door is timber and rotten around the lock, the frame has moved, or the door is an older design with glass that cannot be upgraded. A new uPVC back door from us is £799 fully fitted with multi point locking, and a composite door from £1,099 with a solid core and PAS 24 testing.
Habits that make the biggest difference
Most back door break ins we hear about on surveys did not involve defeating a good lock. The door was left on the latch while someone was in the garden, or the key was hanging on a hook by the door. Locking properly every time, even for a few minutes, costs nothing. Tell us about any past attempts at survey and we will look at that door first.
Common questions
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