Photo by Yevgen Tarasov on Unsplash
How to Take Out a Stripped Screw Easily
Learn how to remove a stripped screw using simple tools and effective techniques. Save your project and prevent further damage with this practical guide.
Quick Summary
To take out a stripped screw, you can try several methods like using a rubber band for extra grip, a screw extractor kit, or carefully drilling it out. The best approach depends on the screw's size and how severely it's stripped.
Advertisement
🛒 What You Need
- Screwdriver (matching original type, or slightly larger flathead)
- Rubber band or steel wool
- Pliers (locking or needle-nose)
- Screw extractor kit
- Drill and drill bits
- Hammer (for impact driver, optional)
- Penetrating oil (optional)
- Safety glasses
📋 Steps
Assess the Damage and Gather Tools
Examine how badly the screw head is stripped and determine the original screwdriver type needed. Gather appropriate tools such as a larger screwdriver, a wide rubber band, pliers, or a dedicated screw extractor kit. Having the right tools on hand will make the process smoother.
Try the Rubber Band Method
Place a wide rubber band or a piece of steel wool over the stripped screw head. Press a screwdriver (preferably one size larger than the original or a flathead) firmly into the screw head over the rubber band, then slowly try to turn the screw counter-clockwise. The rubber band adds crucial friction, often allowing the screwdriver to grip the damaged head.
Use Pliers for Grip
If the screw head is slightly raised or protruding, grip it firmly with locking pliers or needle-nose pliers. Ensure you have a secure hold on the screw head. Once gripped, slowly twist the pliers counter-clockwise to loosen and remove the screw. This method is highly effective for screws that aren't flush with the surface.
Advertisement
Employ a Screw Extractor Kit
For deeply stripped screws, a screw extractor kit is often the most reliable solution. First, use a drill bit from the kit to carefully drill a pilot hole into the center of the stripped screw head. Then, insert the extractor bit into your drill (set to reverse) and slowly drive it into the pilot hole until it bites, continuing to extract the screw.
Apply Penetrating Oil (for Stubborn Screws)
If the screw is rusted or particularly stubborn, apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the base of the screw. Allow it to sit for 15-30 minutes, or even longer for very seized screws, to help loosen the threads. After the oil has worked, retry one of the above extraction methods.
Consider Drilling Out the Screw (Last Resort)
If all other methods fail, you may need to drill out the screw. Use a drill bit slightly larger than the screw's shaft but smaller than its head. Carefully drill down through the screw head until it detaches, allowing you to remove the workpiece. You can then remove the remaining screw shaft with pliers or by drilling it out completely.
Use an Impact Driver (if available)
An impact driver can be very effective for stubborn screws. Fit it with the appropriate bit, place it firmly on the screw head, and strike the back with a hammer while turning counter-clockwise. The combined impact and rotational force helps to break the screw free and provides extra torque.
💡 Tips & Tricks
- Always apply firm, downward pressure when trying to turn a stripped screw to maintain maximum grip and prevent further damage.
- Work slowly and patiently; rushing can cause further damage to the screw head or the surrounding material.
- Use the correct size and type of screwdriver for the screw whenever possible to prevent stripping in the first place.
- Always apply firm, downward pressure when trying to turn a stripped screw to maintain maximum grip and prevent further damage.
- Work slowly and patiently; rushing can cause further damage to the screw head or the surrounding material.
- Use the correct size and type of screwdriver for the screw whenever possible to prevent stripping in the first place.
Advertisement
⚠️ Warnings
- ⚠️ Always wear safety glasses when using power tools like drills or impact drivers to protect your eyes from flying debris or metal shards.
- ⚠️ Be careful not to over-drill when using an extractor or drilling out a screw, as this can damage the material around the screw hole or break the extractor bit.
- ⚠️ Always wear safety glasses when using power tools like drills or impact drivers to protect your eyes from flying debris or metal shards.
- ⚠️ Be careful not to over-drill when using an extractor or drilling out a screw, as this can damage the material around the screw hole or break the extractor bit.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What causes a screw to strip?
Screws typically strip due to using the wrong size or type of screwdriver, applying insufficient downward pressure while turning, or if the screw itself is old, rusted, or made of soft metal. Over-tightening can also lead to stripping the head.
Can I use super glue to remove a stripped screw?
While some DIYers suggest gluing a nut or screwdriver bit to the stripped screw head, this method is generally not recommended. It can be messy, often doesn't hold, and may permanently bond the screw to the tool, making removal even harder.
What's the best method for a small stripped screw?
For small stripped screws, the rubber band method or using very fine needle-nose pliers might work. If those fail, a small screw extractor kit designed for delicate work is often the most effective and precise solution.
Is a screw extractor kit difficult to use?
Screw extractor kits are relatively straightforward to use, but they require precision. You need to drill a pilot hole accurately in the center of the stripped screw and use the extractor bit correctly to avoid breaking it, which can complicate the situation further.
How do I prevent screws from stripping in the future?
To prevent stripping, always use the correct size and type of screwdriver bit that fits snugly into the screw head. Apply firm, consistent downward pressure while turning, and avoid overtightening screws, especially in soft materials.
What if the screw head breaks off completely?
If the screw head breaks off, you'll be left with the shaft embedded in the material. You might be able to grip the protruding shaft with pliers. If it's flush, you may need to drill around it with a larger drill bit to remove the surrounding material and then extract the remaining shaft.
Can I use a Torx bit on a stripped Philips head screw?
Sometimes, a slightly larger Torx bit can bite into a stripped Philips head screw due to its unique star shape, providing enough grip to turn it. This is a common workaround but requires careful application and firm pressure to avoid further damage to the screw or workpiece.
Advertisement
