This article is about the SKG quality mark. Who issues it, what does it serve, and what do the stars mean? We also discuss the core pulling technique.
Foundation for Quality Facade Construction
The abbreviation SKG stands for Stichting Kwaliteit Gevelbouw (Foundation for Facade Quality). The name of that foundation has since been changed to SKGI-KOB. The organization is based in Geldermalsen and has existed since 1977. SKGI-KOB issues certificates for the real estate and construction sectors. One of its quality marks is SKG, which refers to the original name of the organization. Other quality marks from the same organization are BKB and SKW.
What is the SKG quality mark for?
Because a burglary in your home is very inconvenient in various ways, it's helpful to know what security your existing locks and hardware offer and what you can buy at a DIY store. Manufacturers of such components have them tested by SKGI-KOB, which independently determines their level of security. SKGI-KOB determines how much effort it takes to open a lock. In other words, how long it takes a burglar to do so. Because burglars adapt their techniques, that time can become shorter. Therefore, a manufacturer's lock model is regularly retested, and it can then receive a lower quality mark.
Core pulling protection
We're talking about cylinder locks here. A cylinder lock is the most secure type of lock. This type of lock is therefore standard equipment for the exterior doors of new-build homes. One method burglars use to break open a cylinder lock is to pull out the core. A hardened screw is then screwed into the cylinder, which is then pulled out forcefully using a crowbar, for example. Therefore, it's important to know how resistant a cylinder lock is.
The stars
SKGI-KOB awards stars to cylinder locks. The number of stars indicates how much effort a burglar has to break a lock. SKG*** is currently the highest rating, which takes more than five minutes to break. A lock with the SKG** certification takes less time, and a lock with the SKG* certification takes the shortest, taking three minutes to break.