Screws are an essential part of many household projects, but they can be frustrating to deal with when they become stuck. Whether you’re trying to remove a screw from a piece of furniture or a car engine, there are a few simple tricks you can use to get it out without damaging the screw or the surrounding material.
One of the most common ways to remove a stuck screw is to use a screwdriver with a larger head. This will give you more leverage and help you to break the screw loose. If you don’t have a larger screwdriver, you can try using a pair of pliers or a wrench. However, be careful not to overtighten the pliers or wrench, as this could damage the screw.
Another option for removing a stuck screw is to use a penetrating oil. These oils are designed to help loosen the threads of the screw, making it easier to remove. To use a penetrating oil, simply apply a few drops to the screw and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, try to remove the screw using a screwdriver.
Utilizing Heat to Loosen Stuck Screws
Heat expansion is an effective method for loosening stuck screws. Applying heat to the screw and surrounding area causes the metal to expand, reducing the friction between the screw and the material it’s embedded in. This makes it easier to remove the screw. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use heat to loosen stuck screws:
Materials required:
- Heat source (e.g., soldering iron, heat gun, blow dryer)
- Safety glasses
- Heat-resistant gloves
- Penetrating oil (optional)
Steps:
- Protect yourself by wearing safety glasses and heat-resistant gloves.
- Apply heat to the screw head and the area around it for 30-60 seconds. Use a gentle circular motion to distribute the heat evenly.
- If the screw is particularly stubborn, apply penetrating oil to the threads and let it soak for a few minutes before applying heat.
- Once the screw is heated, use a screwdriver or wrench to turn it. If the screw still resists, apply more heat and try again.
- Once the screw is loose enough, remove it completely.
| Heat Source | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Soldering Iron | Precise heat application | Limited reach, not suitable for large screws |
| Heat Gun | Wide area coverage | May overheat the area, can be difficult to control |
| Blow Dryer | Safe and easy to use | Less heat output, not effective for very stubborn screws |
Drilling Out a Stuck Screw
Best Drill Bits for Removing Stuck Screws
When selecting a drill bit for removing stuck screws, opt for a specialized screw extractor bit or a left-handed drill bit. Screw extractor bits feature a reverse-threaded design that bites into the damaged screw and loosens it as you drill. Left-handed drill bits rotate counterclockwise, which helps break the bond between the screw and the material it’s embedded in.
Drilling Out a Stuck Screw: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prepare the Work Area
Gather your tools and secure the workpiece in a stable position. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from flying debris.
Step 2: Mark the Center of the Screw
Using a center punch or nail, make a small indentation at the center of the stuck screw. This will serve as a guiding point for your drill bit.
Step 3: Start Drilling
Choose a drill bit slightly smaller than the diameter of the screw. Start drilling slowly and carefully, using a low speed setting. Apply steady downward pressure to gradually penetrate the screw.
Step 4: Reverse the Drill Bit
Once the drill bit has penetrated the screw, switch the drill to reverse mode. This will engage the reverse threads of the screw extractor bit and loosen the screw. Continue drilling in reverse until the screw is fully removed.
| Drill Bit Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Screw Extractor Bit | Specialized for removing stuck screws | Can be expensive |
| Left-Handed Drill Bit | Breaks the bond between screw and material | Less effective on hardened screws |
| Cobalt Drill Bit | Durable and long-lasting | Can generate excessive heat |
| High-Speed Steel Bit | Cost-effective | Less durable than cobalt bits |
| Titanium-Coated Bit | Resists wear and tear | Can be brittle |
Employing Pliers or a Wrench
When dealing with stuck screws, employing pliers or a wrench can offer an effective solution. Here’s how to use these tools:
Using Pliers
If the screw head is accessible, grip it tightly with a pair of pliers. Rotate the pliers counterclockwise with a firm twist. Ensure the pliers are secured firmly to prevent slippage.
Using a Wrench
If the screw head is recessed, a wrench can be more suitable. Place the wrench over the screw head and secure it in place. Rotate the wrench counterclockwise, applying gradual but firm pressure.
Choosing the Right Pliers or Wrench
| Tool | Advantages and Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Needle-Nose Pliers | Precise grip, but may not provide enough leverage |
| Slip-Joint Pliers | Adjustable grip, but may not offer the same precision as needle-nose pliers |
| Vice-Grip Pliers | Strong grip, ideal for rounded or worn screw heads |
| Adjustable Wrench | Versatile and can accommodate various screw sizes, but may not provide the same torque as a fixed wrench |
| Fixed Wrench | High torque and precision, but limited to specific screw sizes |
Applying Reverse Pressure
If the above techniques fail, you can try applying reverse pressure. This involves turning the screw in the opposite direction of its normal rotation. However, this method should be used with caution, as it can damage the screw or the surrounding material if not done properly.
To apply reverse pressure, follow these steps:
1. Grip the screwdriver firmly near the tip.
2. Apply downward pressure while turning the screw counterclockwise.
3. Be patient and gradually increase the pressure until the screw begins to loosen.
4. Once the screw is loose enough to turn by hand, remove it completely.
Note: If the screw is extremely stubborn, you may need to use a penetrating lubricant to help loosen it. Apply a few drops of the lubricant to the screw and allow it to sit for a few minutes before attempting to turn it.
Here is a table summarizing the various methods for removing stuck screws:
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Applying force | Use a screwdriver or wrench to apply force to the screw. |
| Using penetrating lubricant | Apply a penetrating lubricant to the screw to help loosen it. |
| Applying heat | Use a heat gun or soldering iron to heat the screw and loosen it. |
| Using reverse pressure | Turn the screw in the opposite direction of its normal rotation to loosen it. |
| Drilling out the screw | Drill out the head of the screw to remove it. |
Creating a New Slot for a Screwdriver
If the other methods don’t work, you can try creating a new slot for a screwdriver. This is a more advanced technique, so it’s best to try it as a last resort. Here’s how to do it:
-
Use a Dremel tool or a hacksaw to cut a new slot into the head of the screw. Make sure the slot is deep enough and wide enough to fit a screwdriver.
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Insert a screwdriver into the new slot and try to loosen the screw.
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If the screw still doesn’t come loose, you can try using a screw extractor. A screw extractor is a tool that is designed to grip and remove damaged screws.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
Can be used to remove screws that are severely damaged or stripped. |
Requires specialized tools and can be time-consuming. |
Here are some additional tips:
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Use a sharp hacksaw blade or Dremel tool bit.
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Make sure the new slot is perpendicular to the surface of the screw.
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If the screw is made of a hard material, you may need to use a lubricant to help loosen it.
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Be patient and don’t force the screwdriver or screw extractor. This can damage the screw or the surrounding material.
Utilizing a Soldering Iron
If the other methods have failed, employing a soldering iron can provide a reliable solution. This technique involves melting solder onto the screw, which effectively “glues” the screwdriver to the screw. Here’s a detailed guide for using a soldering iron:
Materials Required:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Soldering iron | Melts solder onto the screw |
| Solder | “Glues” the screwdriver to the screw |
| Small screwdriver | Fits into the screw head |
| Tweezers | Removes melted solder and the screw |
Steps:
- Heat the soldering iron until its tip is melted.
- Apply solder to the tip of the soldering iron.
- Touch the heated solder tip to the center of the screw head.
- Hold the soldering iron steady for a few seconds, allowing the solder to flow into the screw head.
- Remove the soldering iron and let the solder cool for about 10 seconds.
- Insert a small screwdriver into the now-tightened screw head.
- Turn the screwdriver counterclockwise to loosen and remove the screw.
- Use tweezers to remove the melted solder from the screw.
- Clean and oil the screw and screwdriver before reusing them.
Note: It’s crucial to be cautious while using a soldering iron, as it operates at high temperatures. Wear appropriate safety gear and work in a well-ventilated area.
How To Get Screws Out That Are Stuck
There are several techniques you can use to remove a stuck screw. First, try applying downward pressure on the screwdriver while turning it. If that doesn’t work, you can try using a pair of pliers to grip the screw and turn it. If the screw is still stuck, you can try using a penetrating oil to loosen it. Apply the oil 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 using a heat gun to heat it up. Be careful not to overheat the screw, as this could damage it. Once the screw is hot, try to remove it using a screwdriver or pliers.
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 severely stuck. To drill out a screw, you will need a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the screw. Drill a hole into the center of the screw and then use a screwdriver or pliers to remove the screw.
People Also Ask About How To Get Screws Out That Are Stuck
How do you remove a screw that is stripped?
If the screw is stripped, you can try using a pair of pliers to grip the screw and turn it. You can also try using a rubber band to create more friction between the screwdriver and the screw. If the screw is still stuck, you can try using a screw extractor.
What is a screw extractor?
A screw extractor is a tool that is designed to remove stripped screws. Screw extractors are typically made of hardened steel and have a spiral-shaped tip that bites into the screw. To use a screw extractor, you will need to drill a hole into the center of the screw and then insert the screw extractor. Turn the screw extractor counterclockwise to remove the screw.
