How to Remove a Stripped Screw: A Comprehensive Guide
Dealing with a stripped screw can be incredibly frustrating. Whether you’re working on a DIY project, repairing furniture, or disassembling electronics, a stripped screw can bring your progress to a screeching halt. A stripped screw is essentially one where the head has been damaged, making it impossible for a screwdriver to grip and turn it effectively. This damage often happens due to excessive force, using the wrong size screwdriver, or working with low-quality screws. Fortunately, there are several methods you can use to remove a stripped screw without causing further damage to your project. This comprehensive guide will walk you through various techniques, providing step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to get that stubborn screw out.
## Understanding Why Screws Get Stripped
Before diving into the solutions, it’s helpful to understand why screws get stripped in the first place. Recognizing the causes can help you prevent stripping screws in future projects.
* **Excessive Force:** Applying too much pressure while turning a screw is a common culprit. The screw head is made of metal, and excessive force can deform the head, especially if the screw is made of softer metal.
* **Incorrect Screwdriver Size:** Using a screwdriver that is too small or the wrong type for the screw head can easily strip it. The screwdriver bit needs to fit snugly into the screw head to provide adequate grip.
* **Angle of Application:** Not applying the screwdriver straight and aligned with the screw can lead to slippage and stripping. The force should be directly into the screw, not at an angle.
* **Low-Quality Screws:** Inexpensive screws made from softer metals are more prone to stripping than higher-quality screws.
* **Power Tools:** While power drills and screwdrivers can save time, they can also easily strip screws if not used carefully. The high torque can quickly damage a screw head.
## Essential Tools for Removing Stripped Screws
Having the right tools on hand will make the process of removing a stripped screw much easier and more efficient. Here’s a list of essential tools you might need:
* **Screwdrivers:** A variety of screwdrivers (Phillips, flathead, Torx, etc.) in different sizes.
* **Rubber Band:** A simple rubber band can provide extra grip between the screwdriver and the screw head.
* **Steel Wool:** Similar to a rubber band, steel wool can fill the gap and provide better traction.
* **Wide Rubber Band or Latex Glove:** Provides better grip and prevents slipping.
* **Screw Extraction Pliers:** Designed to grip the head of the screw and turn it out.
* **Screw Extractors (also known as Screw Removers):** These are specialized tools designed to bite into the stripped screw head and allow you to unscrew it.
* **Drill:** A drill with variable speed and different drill bits.
* **Left-Handed Drill Bits:** These bits can sometimes catch and unscrew the screw as you drill.
* **Penetrating Oil:** Helps to loosen rusted or stuck screws.
* **Hammer:** Used to gently tap the screwdriver or screw extractor into place.
* **Dremel or Rotary Tool:** Useful for cutting a new slot in the screw head.
* **Pliers or Vise-Grips:** For gripping the screw head and turning it.
* **Heat Gun or Soldering Iron (optional):** To heat the screw and loosen any threadlocker or corrosion.
* **Safety Glasses:** Protect your eyes from flying debris.
* **Gloves:** Protect your hands.
## Methods for Removing a Stripped Screw
Here are several methods you can try to remove a stripped screw, starting with the simplest and progressing to more advanced techniques.
### 1. Using a Rubber Band or Steel Wool
This is often the first and easiest method to try. The idea is to use the rubber band or steel wool to fill the gap between the screwdriver and the stripped screw head, providing extra grip.
**Steps:**
1. **Place the Rubber Band or Steel Wool:** Place a wide rubber band (or a small piece of steel wool) over the stripped screw head.
2. **Insert the Screwdriver:** Insert the appropriate screwdriver into the screw head, pressing down firmly.
3. **Apply Pressure and Turn:** Apply steady pressure and slowly turn the screwdriver counterclockwise (to unscrew). The rubber band or steel wool should help the screwdriver grip the screw head better.
4. **Repeat if Necessary:** If the screw doesn’t budge, try using a thicker rubber band or more steel wool.
**Tips:**
* Make sure the rubber band or steel wool is clean and free of debris.
* Apply consistent pressure to prevent the screwdriver from slipping.
* This method works best for screws that are only slightly stripped.
### 2. Using a Wide Rubber Band or Latex Glove for Better Grip
Similar to the rubber band method, using a piece of wide rubber band or a latex glove can significantly improve the grip of the screwdriver.
**Steps:**
1. **Prepare the Rubber or Glove:** Cut a small piece from a wide rubber band or a latex glove.
2. **Place it on the Screw Head:** Place the rubber piece over the stripped screw head, ensuring it covers the damaged area.
3. **Insert Screwdriver:** Insert the appropriate screwdriver into the screw head, pressing firmly through the rubber.
4. **Turn Slowly:** Apply pressure and turn the screwdriver slowly counterclockwise. The rubber will create friction and help the screwdriver grip the screw.
**Tips:**
* Ensure the rubber is clean and free of any lubricants.
* Apply consistent downward pressure while turning.
* This method is effective for screws with moderately stripped heads.
### 3. Using Screw Extraction Pliers
Screw extraction pliers are designed with specially shaped jaws that can grip the head of a screw, even if it’s stripped. These pliers provide a strong grip, allowing you to turn the screw out.
**Steps:**
1. **Position the Pliers:** Open the jaws of the screw extraction pliers and position them around the head of the stripped screw.
2. **Grip the Screw Head:** Close the pliers, ensuring they have a firm grip on the screw head. You may need to adjust the position to get the best grip.
3. **Turn Counterclockwise:** Once the pliers are securely gripping the screw head, turn them counterclockwise to unscrew the screw.
4. **Apply Steady Pressure:** Apply steady pressure while turning to prevent the pliers from slipping.
**Tips:**
* Use pliers that are the appropriate size for the screw head.
* Ensure the jaws of the pliers are clean and free of debris.
* This method works well for screws with exposed heads.
### 4. Using a Screw Extractor (Screw Remover)
Screw extractors are specialized tools designed specifically for removing stripped screws. They typically come in a set with different sizes for different screw sizes. There are two main types of screw extractors:
* **Spiral Flute Extractors:** These have a spiral design that bites into the screw head as you turn them.
* **Straight Flute Extractors:** These have straight flutes that grip the screw head.
Here’s how to use a screw extractor:
**Steps:**
1. **Select the Correct Size Extractor:** Choose a screw extractor that is slightly smaller than the stripped screw head.
2. **Create a Pilot Hole:** Use a drill with a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the extractor tip. Drill a pilot hole into the center of the stripped screw head. This helps the extractor grip the screw.
3. **Insert the Extractor:** Insert the screw extractor into the pilot hole. You may need to gently tap it with a hammer to ensure it’s firmly seated.
4. **Turn Counterclockwise:** Use a wrench or tap handle to turn the screw extractor counterclockwise. As you turn, the extractor will bite into the screw head, and eventually, the screw will begin to unscrew.
5. **Apply Steady Pressure:** Apply steady pressure while turning to prevent the extractor from slipping.
**Tips:**
* Use a low speed on the drill to prevent damaging the extractor or the surrounding material.
* Apply penetrating oil to the screw threads to help loosen them.
* Be careful not to break the extractor, as they can be brittle.
### 5. Cutting a New Slot with a Dremel or Rotary Tool
If the screw head is still somewhat intact, you can use a Dremel or rotary tool with a cutting wheel to create a new slot in the screw head. This will allow you to use a flathead screwdriver to turn the screw.
**Steps:**
1. **Attach a Cutting Wheel:** Attach a small, thin cutting wheel to your Dremel or rotary tool.
2. **Cut a Slot:** Carefully cut a slot across the screw head, creating a straight line that a flathead screwdriver can fit into. Take your time to avoid damaging the surrounding material.
3. **Insert a Flathead Screwdriver:** Insert a flathead screwdriver into the new slot.
4. **Turn Counterclockwise:** Apply pressure and turn the screwdriver counterclockwise to unscrew the screw.
**Tips:**
* Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris.
* Use a low speed on the Dremel to prevent overheating the cutting wheel.
* This method works best for screws with enough remaining head material to create a good slot.
### 6. Using a Drill with Left-Handed Drill Bits
Left-handed drill bits are designed to turn counterclockwise as they drill. In some cases, the bit will catch on the screw and unscrew it as you drill.
**Steps:**
1. **Select a Left-Handed Drill Bit:** Choose a left-handed drill bit that is slightly smaller than the screw head.
2. **Drill into the Screw Head:** Place the tip of the drill bit on the center of the stripped screw head and begin drilling. Apply steady pressure.
3. **Check for Unscrewing:** As you drill, watch to see if the screw starts to unscrew. If it does, continue drilling until the screw is completely removed.
4. **If Necessary, Use a Screw Extractor:** If the drill bit doesn’t unscrew the screw, you can then use a screw extractor as described above.
**Tips:**
* Use a low speed on the drill to prevent damaging the surrounding material.
* Apply penetrating oil to the screw threads to help loosen them.
* This method works best for screws that are not tightly seized.
### 7. Applying Heat to Loosen the Screw
Heat can help to loosen screws that are stuck due to rust, corrosion, or threadlocker. Applying heat can expand the metal, breaking the bond and making it easier to remove the screw.
**Steps:**
1. **Apply Heat:** Use a heat gun or soldering iron to apply heat to the screw head for a few minutes. Be careful not to overheat the surrounding material.
2. **Let it Cool Slightly:** Allow the screw to cool slightly. The expansion and contraction of the metal can help break the bond.
3. **Try Removing the Screw:** Use one of the methods described above (such as a screwdriver with a rubber band or a screw extractor) to try to remove the screw.
**Tips:**
* Be careful when using heat, as it can damage or ignite flammable materials.
* Wear gloves to protect your hands from the heat.
* This method is particularly effective for screws that have threadlocker applied to them.
### 8. Using Penetrating Oil
Penetrating oil can help to loosen screws that are stuck due to rust or corrosion. The oil seeps into the threads, breaking the bond and making it easier to remove the screw.
**Steps:**
1. **Apply Penetrating Oil:** Apply penetrating oil (such as WD-40, Liquid Wrench, or PB Blaster) to the screw head and the surrounding area. Try to get the oil into the threads of the screw.
2. **Let it Soak:** Allow the oil to soak for several minutes or even hours. The longer it soaks, the better it will penetrate the rust or corrosion.
3. **Try Removing the Screw:** Use one of the methods described above (such as a screwdriver with a rubber band or a screw extractor) to try to remove the screw.
**Tips:**
* Apply the oil liberally to ensure it penetrates the threads.
* Tap the screw head gently with a hammer to help the oil penetrate.
* This method is particularly effective for screws that are rusted or corroded.
### 9. Hammering the Screwdriver
Gently tapping the screwdriver into the screw head with a hammer can help to seat the screwdriver and provide a better grip. This can also help to break any corrosion or rust that is holding the screw in place.
**Steps:**
1. **Insert the Screwdriver:** Insert the appropriate screwdriver into the screw head.
2. **Tap the Screwdriver:** Gently tap the end of the screwdriver with a hammer. This will help to seat the screwdriver and improve its grip.
3. **Turn Counterclockwise:** Apply pressure and turn the screwdriver counterclockwise to unscrew the screw.
**Tips:**
* Use a rubber mallet to avoid damaging the screwdriver handle.
* Be careful not to damage the surrounding material.
* This method works best for screws that are only slightly stuck.
### 10. When All Else Fails: Drilling the Screw Out
If none of the above methods work, your last resort may be to drill the screw out. This method is more destructive, but it can be effective in removing a severely stripped screw.
**Steps:**
1. **Center Punch:** Use a center punch to create a small indentation in the center of the screw head. This will help guide the drill bit and prevent it from slipping.
2. **Select a Drill Bit:** Choose a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the screw’s threads. You want to remove the head of the screw without damaging the surrounding material.
3. **Drill into the Screw Head:** Place the tip of the drill bit on the indentation and begin drilling at a slow, steady speed. Apply consistent pressure and keep the drill bit straight.
4. **Remove the Screw Head:** Continue drilling until the head of the screw separates from the shank (the threaded part). Once the head is removed, you should be able to remove the remaining shank with pliers or vise-grips.
**Tips:**
* Use a slow speed on the drill to prevent damaging the surrounding material.
* Apply cutting oil to the drill bit to help lubricate it and prevent overheating.
* Be very careful not to damage the threads in the hole, especially if you plan to use the same hole for a new screw.
## Preventing Stripped Screws in the Future
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to help you avoid stripping screws in the future:
* **Use the Right Size Screwdriver:** Always use a screwdriver that is the correct size and type for the screw head. The bit should fit snugly into the screw head with no play.
* **Apply Even Pressure:** Apply steady, even pressure when turning a screw. Avoid applying excessive force, which can deform the screw head.
* **Keep the Screwdriver Aligned:** Keep the screwdriver aligned straight with the screw. Tilting the screwdriver can cause it to slip and strip the screw head.
* **Use High-Quality Screws:** Invest in high-quality screws made from durable materials. These screws are less likely to strip than inexpensive screws.
* **Pre-Drill Pilot Holes:** When working with hard materials like hardwood or metal, pre-drill pilot holes before inserting screws. This reduces the amount of force required to drive the screw and helps prevent stripping.
* **Use a Screw Gun with Adjustable Clutch:** If you’re using a power drill or screwdriver, use one with an adjustable clutch. The clutch allows you to set the torque level, preventing you from over-tightening and stripping the screw.
* **Lubricate the Screws:** Applying a small amount of lubricant (such as wax or soap) to the screw threads can help them turn more easily and reduce the risk of stripping.
* **Start Slow:** When using a power drill or screwdriver, start at a slow speed and gradually increase it as needed. This gives you more control and reduces the risk of stripping the screw.
## Conclusion
Removing a stripped screw can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and techniques, it is definitely achievable. By understanding the causes of stripped screws and following the step-by-step instructions provided in this guide, you can effectively remove stripped screws without causing further damage to your projects. Remember to start with the simplest methods and gradually progress to more advanced techniques as needed. And most importantly, take your time and be patient. With a little persistence, you’ll be able to conquer those stubborn stripped screws and get your projects back on track.
