Introduction

Have you ever started a DIY project or attempted to fix something around your house, only to find a stripped screw standing in your way? Stripped screws refer to screws that have lost their ridges or grooves that allow for them to be turned with a screwdriver. When the screwdriver is no longer able to grip the screw head, it can become nearly impossible to remove the screw, leaving you feeling defeated.

However, fear not, as we will discuss various methods to remove stripped screws. Knowing how to remove stripped screws is an essential skill for anyone who works with tools or does DIY projects. This article will cover several different ways to remove a stripped screw, your go-to when the usual methods such as using a screwdriver fail.

Using Rubber Bands

The rubber band method is straightforward and does not require a lot of tools. Here are the steps:

1. Find a rubber band that is wide enough to cover the screw head entirely.
2. Place the rubber band over the head of the stripped screw. The rubber band will provide extra grip for the screwdriver.
3. Using a screwdriver, gently apply pressure and begin turning the screw. If the screwdriver slips out, you can try to add some downward pressure while turning the screw.
4. The screw should come out relatively quickly or maybe require a little more force, be patient.

Tools needed = Rubber bands, screwdriver

Advantages: No additional tools required, easy to perform, uncomplicated. Disadvantages: Depending on the degree of stripping, it may not work and requires some patience for the rubber band to fit properly.

Hammer and Chisel

This method requires a little bit more physical effort since it requires a hammer and a chisel, proceed with caution. Here’s how to perform this method:

1. Place the chisel’s flat edge on the screw head and turn the chisel counterclockwise, gently.
2. The chisel creates a small notch into the screw head, which will make it easier for the screwdriver to grip and remove the screw.
3. Gently tap the chisel with a hammer and turn the screw counterclockwise with a screwdriver.
4. Continue to tap the chisel and turn the screw until you can finally remove the screw.

Tools needed = Hammer, chisel

Advantages: If done correctly, it is a reliable method for removing tight screws, and it does not require additional tools. Disadvantages: It could be challenging to use the chisel without damaging the surrounding materials.

Pliers

If the above methods don’t work for the stripped screw, try out the pliers method. It’s effective when you want to pull out the screw instead of unscrewing it. Here’s how to use pliers:

1. Find a pair of pliers that fit the stripped screw head.
2. Place the pliers onto the screw, ensuring that they grip onto the screw’s head securely.
3. Hold the pliers level and slowly pull upwards to loosen the screw.
4. If the screw head breaks, use a small drill bit and drill a hole into the screw head. Do not drill too deep.
5. Place the pliers into the hole and turn counterclockwise to remove the screw.

Tools needed = Pliers.

Advantages: Effective in pulling out screws when all other methods have failed. No additional tools required. Disadvantages: It can damage the surrounding materials if not handled carefully.

Drill and Screw Extractor

If you don’t mind investing a little bit more time and effort, try the drill and screw extractor method. Here’s how:

1. Drill a small hole into the center of the stripped screw head.
2. Select a screw extractor that corresponds to the drill bit size, ensuring that the extractor has a reverse thread. Attach to the drill.
3. Place the extractor into the drilled hole.
4. Tap the extractor gently with a hammer and turn to the left or counterclockwise.
5. The extractor will grip the screw and remove it once turned completely.

Tools needed = Drill, screw extractor

Advantages: It works on even the most challenging stripped screw cases and can remove the screw entirely. Disadvantages: You need to be careful with the drill bit, make sure you do not damage the surrounding materials.

Glue Method

This method involves the use of wooden matchsticks, or toothpicks, and glue. Here’s how to do it:

1. Place a drop of glue into the stripped screw’s head.
2. Insert a wooden matchstick or toothpick into the hole.
3. Break the matchstick or toothpick so that it snaps off just above the screwhead.
4. Wait for the glue to dry and harden.
5. Turn the screwdriver counterclockwise and remove the screw.

Tools needed = Glue, screwdriver

Advantages: It’s easy, does not require many tools, inexpensive, and most importantly, it’s a method that works. Disadvantages: May not work for serious instances of stripped screws.

Heat Method

If all the above methods have failed, you can apply heat to the screw. Here’s how to do it:

1. Heat a fine point heat gun, hairdryer, or small flame on the center of the screw for about 5-10 minutes, based on the screw size.
2. Try unscrewing the screw right after removing the heat, with a screwdriver.
3. The screw should turn easily, and you can remove it entirely.

Tools needed = Heat gun, screwdriver

Advantages: It works fast and effectively on most screws. Disadvantages: Heat can damage surrounding materials, be cautious.

Tips and Tricks

Several additional tips and tricks could come in handy when removing stripped screws, such as:

• Use lubricant to help remove the screw
• Tap the screw head with a hammer to loosen
• Use pliers with ridges or teeth to grip securely.

It’s always essential to take adequate safety precautions to avoid an injury. Wear safety gloves or goggles, especially with the hammer and chisel method, to protect your hands. Do not use too much force when applying any of these methods to avoid damage to the surrounding material and to avoid potential injuries.

Conclusion

Removing stripped screws can be frustrating, leaving you without any progress in your DIY project. Trying out different methods to remove a stripped screw allows you to find a way that best suits the situation. Knowing how to remove stripped screws is a valuable skill for anyone who has to work with tools or complete a DIY project. However, patience and persistence are the key to success. Try the methods listed above and experiment. You could also share any tactics that have worked for you.