How To Remove A Screw With A Stripped Head

Stripped screws are a common problem for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. A stripped screw is one in which the slots in the head of the screw have worn out, making it difficult for a screwdriver to grip and turn the screw. This issue is usually caused by overtightening or frequent screwing and unscrewing. Removing a stripped screw can be a frustrating task, but with the right tools and techniques, it is possible to do so without causing further damage. This article will explore different methods for removing stripped screws, from simple tricks to more advanced techniques, providing practical solutions for anyone encountering this issue.

Using pliers

Firstly, select the appropriate type of pliers for the task. Locking pliers such as Irwin Vice-grip pliers are highly recommended, as they provide the most secure grip. Needle-nose pliers can also be effective, especially for small screws in tight spaces.

Next, open the pliers and grip the sides of the raised screw head firmly. Ensure that the pliers do not slip off the screw as you turn it. If the screw head is too flat, try using a rubber band or a piece of steel wool to improve grip.

With the pliers securely gripping the screw head, turn the screw counterclockwise. Apply steady pressure and keep turning until the screw is completely removed. It is important to be patient during this process, as too much force may cause further damage or deform the screw head.

If the screw is not completely sunk into your material, there is a good chance you can grab it with an electric drill and easily back it out. Open the chuck of the drill and place it over the head of the screw, then hand-tighten to secure the jaws of the chuck over the screw. Set the drill to reverse and gently back the screw out of the material.

If the screw is completely sunk, you can use locking pliers or vise-grip pliers to get a firm grip on the screw and pull it out. Grip the screw on its sides and twist it gently right and left until you have loosened it enough to pull it out.

Flathead screwdriver and hammer

Using a flathead screwdriver and a hammer is an effective way to remove a screw with a stripped head. This method is particularly useful when the screw's slots are too worn or damaged for a regular screwdriver to grip effectively.

Firstly, select a flathead screwdriver that fits the entire hole of the stripped screw head. Ensure that the screwdriver is narrow enough to fit inside the hole without causing further damage. Place the screwdriver into the screw head and ensure it's seated firmly.

Next, gently tap the base of the screwdriver using a hammer. This will help drive the screwdriver deeper into the screw head, creating a better grip. Avoid using excessive force, as this could further damage the screw or surrounding materials. Once the screwdriver is firmly lodged in the screw head, apply downward pressure while simultaneously turning the screwdriver anticlockwise to unscrew the damaged screw.

It is important to maintain steady and consistent pressure while turning the screwdriver to prevent slipping and causing more damage to the screw head. If the screw remains difficult to remove, you may need to use a more advanced technique, such as cutting a new slot for improved grip.

Rubber band trick

The rubber band trick is an effective and simple method for removing a stripped screw without causing further damage to the surrounding material. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Choose a Suitable Rubber Band

Select a rubber band that is wide, flat, and flexible. Ideally, the rubber band should be slightly larger than the screw head.

Step 2: Place the Rubber Band on the Screw Head

Place the rubber band on top of the stripped screw head, making sure it covers the entire surface.

Step 3: Press Down on the Rubber Band with a Screwdriver

Insert your screwdriver into the rubber band, pressing down firmly. The type of screwdriver (flat head or Phillips) should match the screw head design.

Step 4: Turn the Screwdriver Counter-Clockwise

While applying pressure, slowly turn the screwdriver counter-clockwise. The rubber band should grip the damaged screw head, allowing it to turn and loosen. Continue turning the screwdriver until the screw is completely removed.

Troubleshooting:

If the rubber band trick doesn't work initially, try the following:

• Create more grip by using multiple layers of rubber bands on the screw head.
• Deepen the screwdriver slot with a metal-cutting disk or similar tool before trying again with the rubber band.
• Use a screwdriver that is a little smaller than what normally fits in the screw.
• Try using a hammer to drive the screwdriver deeper into the screw. Place the rubber band over the screw, followed by the screwdriver. Then, tap the back end of the screwdriver a few times to wedge it in place.
• Drill through the screw if you can't get a good grip on it. Use a power drill fitted with a metal-safe drill bit and drill straight down through the centre of the screw head. Then, try removing the screw with a screwdriver and rubber band again.
• Cut into the screw with a rotary tool if it is still stuck. Use an oscillating tool, such as a Dremel, with a metal-cutting disk to deepen the screwdriver slot. Then, insert the rubber band and screwdriver to attempt to remove the screw.

Screw extractor

A screw extractor is a handy tool designed to remove stubborn screws with damaged or stripped heads. Screw extractors are reusable and can be purchased at most hardware stores.

To use a screw extractor, you will need a drill driver and the correct size of screw extractor bit for the screw you are trying to remove.

• Drill a small guide hole in the centre of the stripped screw head. Be careful not to apply too much force, as this could damage the screw further. The guide hole will help the screw extractor grip the screw more effectively.
• Insert the screw extractor into your drill driver with the burnishing end facing out. Set your drill driver to reverse mode, as the extractor works by turning the screw counterclockwise. Line up the extractor bit with the guide hole.
• Apply steady and slow pressure as you begin to drill into the screw. The extractor's design will allow it to grip the screw's damaged or stripped head. Once it has a firm grip, it will turn the screw counterclockwise, and the screw will be easily removed.

It is important to be patient and cautious when using a screw extractor. Forcing the extractor or using the wrong size bit could damage the screw further, making it even more difficult to remove.

Left-handed drill bits

Before using a left-handed drill bit, it is important to create a small indentation in the centre of the stripped screw head. This can be done using a centre punch. This step helps to guide the drill bit and ensure it stays in position during the drilling process. Once the indentation is made, the left-handed drill bit can be placed into the drill's chuck and tightened securely. The drill should be set to rotate in reverse or counterclockwise.

When drilling into the stripped screw head, it is important to apply steady pressure and maintain a constant pressure while keeping the drill running in the reverse direction. As the drill bit penetrates the screw head, it may catch onto the screw, causing it to loosen and unscrew. If the left-handed drill bit is unable to remove the stripped screw, a screw extractor can be inserted into the hole created by the drill bit. Tapping the screw extractor gently with a hammer can help ensure a firm grip, and then turning the extractor counterclockwise should help remove the stripped screw efficiently.

It is important to work carefully when using left-handed drill bits or screw extractors to avoid causing damage to the material surrounding the stripped screw. Additionally, choosing the correct size and type of screwdriver is crucial to prevent further damaging the screw head.

Frequently asked questions