Overview
The 'barrel' is the Euro cylinder - the removable brass unit that holds the pins your key aligns. Every composite door in the UK uses one, and swapping it is a 15-minute job with the right size and standard.
Symptoms
- Moving into a new house.
- Lost key or key given to someone no longer trusted.
- Upgrading security to 3-star.
- Existing cylinder is damaged, stiff or snapped.
Common causes
- General wear.
- Weather corrosion (coastal properties).
- Forced entry attempt.
- Original spec is low grade.
When to call a professional
- You're unsure about sizing (wrong length is a security risk - 3mm proud is enough to snap).
- You want a 3-star upgrade fitted correctly.
Prevention
- Fit a cylinder flush to the handle escutcheon - never more than 2mm proud.
- Choose TS007 3-star or Sold Secure Diamond.