How to Unscrew Stripped Screws Like a Pro: The Rubber Band Trick

Dealing with stripped screws can be incredibly frustrating. You’re trying to complete a project, make a repair, or simply disassemble something, and then bam! The screw head is so worn down that your screwdriver just spins uselessly. Before you resort to more drastic measures like screw extractors or drilling, there’s a simple, surprisingly effective trick you can try: the rubber band method. This technique uses the friction of a rubber band to give your screwdriver the grip it needs to bite into the damaged screw head and get it turning. This article will walk you through exactly how to use this method, step-by-step, and provide tips for maximizing its effectiveness.

Why Screws Get Stripped

Before we dive into the solution, it’s helpful to understand why screws get stripped in the first place. Several factors can contribute:

* **Over-tightening:** This is a common culprit. Applying excessive force while tightening a screw can wear down the head, especially if the screw is made of a softer metal.
* **Using the wrong size or type of screwdriver:** Matching the screwdriver to the screw head is crucial. Using a driver that’s too small or doesn’t fit properly will concentrate the force on a smaller area of the screw head, increasing the likelihood of stripping.
* **Poor quality screws:** Cheaper screws are often made from softer metals and are more prone to stripping than higher-quality screws.
* **Angle of attack:** Not applying direct, perpendicular pressure to the screw head while driving the screw can cause the screwdriver to slip and damage the head.
* **Rust and corrosion:** Rust can weaken the screw head and make it more susceptible to stripping.

Materials You’ll Need

Fortunately, the rubber band trick requires very few materials:

* **A Rubber Band:** The most important component! A wide, thick rubber band works best. Look for one that’s relatively new and still has plenty of elasticity. Thinner rubber bands can work in a pinch, but they are more likely to break.
* **The Correct Screwdriver:** This is essential, even with the rubber band trick. Choose a screwdriver that fits the screw head as snugly as possible. For Phillips head screws, make sure the screwdriver is the correct size (PH1, PH2, PH3, etc.). For flat head screws, choose a driver that matches the width of the screw head slot.
* **Optional: Pliers or Vice Grips:** If the screw is particularly stubborn, pliers or vice grips can help you get a better grip on the screwdriver handle.
* **Optional: Lubricant (Penetrating Oil):** For rusted or corroded screws, a penetrating oil like WD-40 or Liquid Wrench can help loosen the screw before you try to remove it. Applying the lubricant a few hours or even a day before attempting removal will maximize its effectiveness.

Step-by-Step Instructions: The Rubber Band Trick

Here’s how to use a rubber band to unscrew a stripped screw:

**Step 1: Preparation**

* **Assess the Damage:** Examine the screw head carefully. How stripped is it? Is it just slightly worn, or is it completely rounded out? This will help you determine if the rubber band trick is likely to work or if you’ll need to try a different method. If the screw is severely stripped, this method may not be effective.
* **Gather Your Materials:** Collect your rubber band, screwdriver, and any optional tools like pliers or penetrating oil.
* **Prepare the Area:** Clear away any debris or obstructions around the screw head. This will give you a clear view and make it easier to work.

**Step 2: Choose the Right Rubber Band**

* **Size and Thickness Matter:** The ideal rubber band is wide and thick. A wider rubber band will cover more of the screw head, providing more surface area for the screwdriver to grip. A thicker rubber band will be more resistant to tearing under pressure.
* **Test the Elasticity:** Stretch the rubber band to make sure it’s still elastic and doesn’t break easily. A brittle rubber band won’t provide enough friction.
* **Consider Stacking (If Needed):** If you only have thin rubber bands, you can try stacking two or three on top of each other to increase the thickness.

**Step 3: Position the Rubber Band**

* **Place the Rubber Band Over the Screw Head:** Center the rubber band directly over the stripped screw head. Make sure it covers the entire damaged area.
* **Press Down Firmly:** Use your finger to press the rubber band down into the screw head. This will help it conform to the shape of the screw and create a tight seal.

**Step 4: Insert the Screwdriver**

* **Insert the Screwdriver Through the Rubber Band:** Carefully insert the tip of your screwdriver through the rubber band and into the screw head. Apply firm, downward pressure to keep the screwdriver from slipping.
* **Ensure a Good Fit:** Make sure the screwdriver is seated as deeply as possible in the screw head. You should feel it engage with the remaining grooves, even if they are worn.

**Step 5: Apply Pressure and Turn**

* **Apply Consistent Downward Pressure:** This is crucial. Keep pressing down firmly on the screwdriver while you try to turn it. The downward pressure is what helps the screwdriver grip the screw head through the rubber band.
* **Turn Slowly and Steadily:** Turn the screwdriver slowly and steadily in the direction you need to unscrew it (usually counter-clockwise). Avoid jerking or applying excessive force, as this can cause the rubber band to tear or the screwdriver to slip.
* **Listen for Movement:** As you turn, listen carefully for any signs that the screw is starting to loosen. You might hear a slight creaking or clicking sound. If you hear this, keep turning slowly and steadily.

**Step 6: Troubleshooting and Tips**

* **If the Rubber Band Tears:** If the rubber band tears, don’t panic. Simply replace it with a new one and try again. You might need to use a thicker rubber band or stack multiple rubber bands if tearing is a persistent problem.
* **If the Screwdriver Still Slips:** If the screwdriver continues to slip, try applying more downward pressure. You can also try using a slightly larger screwdriver, but be careful not to damage the screw head further. Another option is to try a different type of rubber band.
* **If the Screw is Stuck:** If the screw is stuck, try applying a penetrating oil like WD-40 or Liquid Wrench. Spray the oil around the screw head and let it sit for a few minutes to penetrate the threads. Then, try the rubber band trick again. You can also try gently tapping the screw head with a hammer to help loosen it.
* **Use Pliers or Vice Grips for Extra Grip:** If you’re having trouble getting enough leverage on the screwdriver, try using pliers or vice grips to grip the handle. This will give you more control and allow you to apply more force.

Alternative Rubber Band Materials

While standard rubber bands are the go-to choice, you can experiment with other materials that offer similar friction and cushioning properties:

* **Latex Gloves (Pieces):** Cut small squares from latex gloves. The latex material provides excellent grip.
* **Balloons (Pieces):** Similar to latex gloves, small pieces of balloon can work effectively.
* **Thin Leather Scraps:** Small, thin pieces of leather can also provide a good grip between the screwdriver and the screw head.

When the Rubber Band Trick Doesn’t Work

While the rubber band trick is a handy solution, it’s not a magic bullet. There are situations where it simply won’t work. Here’s when you should consider other options:

* **Severely Stripped Screws:** If the screw head is completely rounded out or the grooves are so damaged that there’s nothing for the screwdriver to grip, the rubber band trick is unlikely to work.
* **Rusted or Corroded Screws:** While penetrating oil can help, severely rusted or corroded screws can be too seized up for the rubber band trick to provide enough leverage.
* **Screws That Are Overtightened:** If a screw is extremely overtightened, the force required to loosen it might be too much for the rubber band to handle.
* **Very Small Screws:** On very small screws, there might not be enough surface area for the rubber band to create a sufficient grip.

Alternative Methods for Removing Stripped Screws

If the rubber band trick fails, don’t despair! There are several other methods you can try:

* **Screw Extractors:** These are specialized tools designed to grip stripped screw heads. They typically have a tapered or threaded end that bites into the damaged screw head, allowing you to turn it out. Screw extractor kits are readily available at hardware stores.
* **How to use a screw extractor:**
1. Select an extractor bit that is slightly smaller than the screw head.
2. Use a drill to create a pilot hole in the center of the stripped screw head. This hole will help the extractor bit grip the screw.
3. Insert the extractor bit into the pilot hole.
4. Apply downward pressure and turn the extractor bit counterclockwise. The extractor bit should bite into the screw head and begin to turn it out.
* **Using a Dremel with a Cutting Wheel:** A Dremel tool with a small cutting wheel can be used to create a new slot in the screw head, allowing you to use a flathead screwdriver to remove it.
* **How to use a Dremel to create a new slot:**
1. Attach a small cutting wheel to your Dremel tool.
2. Carefully cut a slot across the screw head. Make sure the slot is deep and wide enough to accommodate a flathead screwdriver.
3. Insert a flathead screwdriver into the new slot.
4. Apply downward pressure and turn the screwdriver counterclockwise to remove the screw.
* **Using a Hammer and a Flathead Screwdriver:** For screws that are not too tightly stuck, you can try using a hammer and a flathead screwdriver to create a new groove in the screw head.
* **How to use a hammer and flathead screwdriver:**
1. Position the flathead screwdriver at an angle on the edge of the screw head.
2. Gently tap the screwdriver with a hammer to create a small notch.
3. Reposition the screwdriver in the notch and tap again to deepen it.
4. Continue this process until you have created a groove that the screwdriver can grip.
5. Apply downward pressure and turn the screwdriver counterclockwise to remove the screw.
* **Using Pliers or Vice Grips:** If the screw head is protruding enough, you can try gripping it with pliers or vice grips and turning it out.
* **How to use pliers or vice grips:**
1. Grip the screw head tightly with the pliers or vice grips.
2. Apply firm pressure and turn the pliers or vice grips counterclockwise to remove the screw.
* **Drilling Out the Screw:** As a last resort, you can drill out the screw head completely. This will destroy the screw, but it will allow you to remove the object it was holding in place.
* **How to drill out a screw:**
1. Select a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the screw head.
2. Place the tip of the drill bit in the center of the screw head.
3. Apply firm pressure and drill into the screw head until it breaks off.
4. Once the screw head is removed, you should be able to remove the remaining part of the screw with pliers or by pushing it through from the other side.

Preventing Stripped Screws in the Future

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to help you avoid stripping screws in the first place:

* **Use the Right Screwdriver:** Always use a screwdriver that fits the screw head properly. Make sure the tip is the correct size and shape.
* **Apply Proper Pressure:** Apply firm, downward pressure while turning the screwdriver. This will help the screwdriver grip the screw head and prevent it from slipping.
* **Avoid Over-Tightening:** Don’t over-tighten screws. Once the screw is snug, stop turning.
* **Use High-Quality Screws:** Invest in high-quality screws made from durable materials.
* **Pre-Drill Pilot Holes:** When working with wood or other soft materials, pre-drill pilot holes before inserting screws. This will make it easier to drive the screws and reduce the risk of stripping them.
* **Use Lubricant:** When working with metal or other hard materials, apply a lubricant to the screw threads before inserting them. This will reduce friction and make it easier to drive the screws.
* **Maintain Your Screwdrivers:** Keep your screwdrivers in good condition. Replace them if the tips become worn or damaged.
* **Consider Impact Drivers:** For heavy-duty applications, consider using an impact driver. Impact drivers deliver a combination of rotational force and hammering action, which can make it easier to drive screws without stripping them.

Conclusion

Stripped screws are a common annoyance, but with a little ingenuity and the right techniques, you can often remove them without resorting to drastic measures. The rubber band trick is a simple and effective solution that can save you time and frustration. Remember to use the right materials, apply consistent pressure, and be patient. And if the rubber band trick doesn’t work, don’t be afraid to try one of the alternative methods described above. By following the tips in this article, you can increase your chances of successfully removing stripped screws and avoid stripping them in the future.