When a screw won’t come out, it can be frustrating and time-consuming to try to extract it. However, there are a few simple steps you can take to fix this problem.
First, try applying some penetrating oil to the screw. This will help to loosen the rust and corrosion that may be holding the screw in place. Let the oil sit for a few minutes, then try to remove the screw again. If this doesn’t work, you can try using a pair of pliers to grip the screw and turn it out. However, be careful not to damage the screw or the surrounding material.
Finally, if all else fails, you can try drilling out the screw. This is a more drastic measure, but it may be necessary if the screw is badly rusted or damaged. To drill out the screw, use a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the screw. Drill a hole into the center of the screw, then use a screwdriver to remove the screw.
Using the Correct Tools for Removal
When you’re trying to remove a stuck screw, it’s important to make sure you’re using the correct tools for the job. The most common types of tools you’ll need include:
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Flat head screwdriver
- Hex key
- Torx screwdriver
- Robertson screwdriver
If you’re not sure which type of screwdriver you need, you can usually find a guide on the product’s packaging. Once you have the correct screwdriver, make sure it’s the right size for the screw head. If the screwdriver is too small, it will slip and damage the screw head. If it’s too large, it will strip the screw head and make it even more difficult to remove.
In addition to the correct screwdriver, you may also need to use a pair of pliers to grip the screw. This is especially helpful if the screw is stuck in a tight spot. To use pliers, simply grip the screw head with the pliers and turn it counterclockwise. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this could damage the screw head.
If you’re still having trouble removing the screw, you may need to use a penetrating oil. Penetrating oil helps to loosen the threads of the screw, making it easier to remove. To use penetrating oil, simply apply a few drops to the screw head and let it sit for a few minutes. Once the penetrating oil has had time to work, try removing the screw again.
| Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| Phillips head screwdriver | A screwdriver with a cross-shaped tip. |
| Flat head screwdriver | A screwdriver with a straight, flat tip. |
| Hex key | A wrench with a hexagonal-shaped tip. |
| Torx screwdriver | A screwdriver with a star-shaped tip. |
| Robertson screwdriver | A screwdriver with a square-shaped tip. |
Using Lubricants or Penetrating Oils
If the screw still won’t budge, you can try using a penetrating oil or lubricant. These products are designed to break down rust and corrosion, and they can help to loosen up the screw so that it can be removed. To use a penetrating oil or lubricant, apply it to the screw and let it sit for a few minutes before trying to remove it. If the screw is still stuck, you can try tapping on it with a hammer while you’re turning it. This can help to break up any rust or corrosion that may be preventing the screw from coming out.
Choosing the Right Lubricant or Penetrating Oil
There are a variety of different lubricants and penetrating oils available on the market, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs. Some of the most common types of lubricants include:
- WD-40
- Graphite powder
- Silicone spray
- Teflon spray
- Lithium grease
Some of the most common types of penetrating oils include:
- Kroil
- PB Blaster
- Liquid Wrench
- CLR (Calcium, Lime, and Rust Remover)
| Lubricant/Penetrating Oil | Description |
|---|---|
| WD-40 | A general-purpose lubricant and penetrating oil that can be used on a variety of surfaces. |
| Graphite powder | A dry lubricant that is good for use on metal surfaces. |
| Silicone spray | A synthetic lubricant that is good for use on plastic and rubber surfaces. |
| Teflon spray | A non-stick lubricant that is good for use on metal surfaces. |
| Lithium grease | A heavy-duty lubricant that is good for use on metal surfaces that are exposed to high temperatures. |
| Kroil | A penetrating oil that is specially formulated to break down rust and corrosion. |
| PB Blaster | A penetrating oil that is good for use on stubborn bolts and nuts. |
| Liquid Wrench | A penetrating oil that is good for use on rusty and corroded metal surfaces. |
| CLR (Calcium, Lime, and Rust Remover) | A penetrating oil that is good for use on surfaces that are covered in rust or calcium deposits. |
Employing Lefty Loosey, Righty Tighty
In most cases, turning the screw counterclockwise (lefty loosey) will loosen the screw. Conversely, turning the screw clockwise (righty tighty) will tighten the screw.
Dealing with Stripped Screws
Stripped screws are a common frustration. Here are some potential solutions:
- Use a rubber band: Place a rubber band over the screw head and try turning it.
- Employ pliers: Gently grip the screw head with needle-nose pliers and turn it.
- Try a specialized tool: Dedicated screw extractors, such as EZ Outs or screw removers, can often extract even heavily damaged screws.
- Apply heat: Gently heat the screw with a heat gun or soldering iron. The expansion and contraction of the metal can loosen the threads.
- Use a Dremel tool: If the screw head is completely stripped, use a Dremel tool with a small grinding bit to create a new notch or slot for your screwdriver.
- Drill it out: As a last resort, you can drill out the screw. Use a drill bit slightly smaller than the screw and drill into the center of the screw. Once the screw is drilled out, you can use pliers to remove the remaining threads.
| Screw Type | Direction to Loosen |
|---|---|
| Standard screws | Counterclockwise (lefty loosey) |
| Reverse-threaded screws | Clockwise (righty loosey) |
| Self-tapping screws | Clockwise (righty tighty) |
Drilling Out the Screw
Drilling out the screw is a more drastic measure that should only be attempted if all other methods have failed. It is important to proceed with caution to avoid damaging the surrounding wood or metal.
Here are the steps to drill out a screw:
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Gather your tools: You will need a drill, drill bits, safety glasses, and a center punch.
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Prepare the area: Secure the workpiece to prevent it from moving during drilling.
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Mark the center of the screw: Use a center punch to create a small indentation in the center of the screw head.
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Choose the correct drill bit: Select a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the screw.
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Start drilling: Start drilling slowly and carefully, applying light pressure. Drill down until the head of the screw is completely removed.
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Remove the broken screw: Use a pair of pliers or a notched screwdriver to extract the broken screw from the hole.
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Additional tips for drilling out screws:
Reason Solution The drill bit is slipping Use a center punch to create a small indentation in the screw head before drilling. The screw is made of hardened steel Use a cobalt drill bit, designed specifically for drilling through hard materials. The drill bit is overheating Apply cutting fluid or oil to the drill bit regularly to prevent overheating. The hole is too large Fill the hole with wood filler or epoxy and allow it to harden before inserting a new screw.
How to Fix a Stuck Screw
If you’re trying to remove a screw and it won’t budge, don’t force it. You could strip the screw or damage the surrounding material. Instead, try these tips:
- Apply penetrating oil. Penetrating oil can help to loosen the screw and make it easier to remove. Apply a few drops to the screw and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Use a larger screwdriver. If you’re using a screwdriver that’s too small, you may not be able to generate enough torque to remove the screw. Try using a larger screwdriver with a wider blade.
- Tap the screw with a hammer. Gently tapping the screw with a hammer can help to loosen it. Be careful not to hit the screw too hard, or you could damage it.
- Use heat. If the screw is made of metal, you can try using heat to loosen it. Apply heat to the screw with a heat gun or a soldering iron. Be careful not to overheat the screw, or you could damage it.
- Drill out the screw. If all else fails, you can try drilling out the screw. This is a last resort, as it can damage the surrounding material. To drill out a screw, use a drill bit that is slightly larger than the screw. Drill a hole in the center of the screw and then use a screwdriver to remove the screw.
People also ask
How do you remove a screw that is stripped?
If the screw is stripped, you can try using a screw extractor. Screw extractors are designed to grip onto the stripped screw and remove it.
How do you remove a screw that is rusted?
If the screw is rusted, you can try using penetrating oil. Penetrating oil can help to loosen the rust and make it easier to remove the screw.
How do you remove a screw that is stuck in wood?
If the screw is stuck in wood, you can try using a drill. Drill a hole in the center of the screw and then use a screwdriver to remove the screw.
