What to Use for Stripped Screws A Comprehensive Guide

Stripped screws can be a source of frustration for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. Whether it's a result of over-tightening, rust, or simply wear and tear, dealing with stripped screws requires some knowledge of tools and techniques. This article will explore various methods to effectively remove or repair stripped screws, ensuring you can tackle this common issue with confidence.

Identifying Stripped Screws

Before discussing solutions, it’s crucial to identify whether you’re indeed dealing with a stripped screw. A stripped screw is typically recognizable when the screwdriver slides out of the screw head, leaving it impossible to turn. Common scenarios where this occurs include old furniture, machinery, or any assembly that hasn’t been touched in a long time. The screw head might appear marred, and the usual grip that a screwdriver would provide is absent.

Tools and Techniques for Stripped Screws

1. Rubber Band Method One of the simplest tricks to use on stripped screws is a rubber band. Place a thick rubber band over the stripped screw head, then insert your screwdriver into the band and turn. The rubber can provide enough grip to get the screw moving again.

2. Screw Extractors For more severe cases, a screw extractor is your best friend. These specialized tools are designed to remove damaged screws with ease. To use a screw extractor - First, drill a hole into the center of the stripped screw using a drill bit. - Next, insert the screw extractor into the hole and turn it counterclockwise. The extractor's spiral threads will grip the screw and allow you to remove it.

3. Pliers If the stripped screw has enough of a shank exposed, you might be able to use needle-nose pliers or locking pliers (like Vise-Grips) to grip and turn the screw manually. Gently grip the screw head and turn it counterclockwise.

4. Dremel Tool With a Dremel or a similar rotary tool, you can create a new slot in the screw's head. Use a cutting wheel to carefully carve a straight groove, allowing for a flathead screwdriver to engage with the screw.

5. Epoxy Method In some cases, you can mix epoxy and apply it to the screw head. Insert a screwdriver into the epoxy before it hardens, creating a custom grip. Ensure that the epoxy is strong enough to withstand turning, and be cautious not to glue the screwdriver permanently.

6. Drilling it Out As a last resort, you can drill out the screw. Use a drill bit slightly smaller than the screw’s shaft, and drill down through the center. Be mindful to keep the drill straight so you don’t damage the surrounding material. After drilling, the screw may either fall out or can be removed with pliers.

Preventing Stripped Screws in the Future

While it’s impossible to completely avoid stripped screws, several measures can help minimize the risk

- Proper Tool Use Always use the appropriate screwdriver for the screw type. Using a flathead screwdriver on a Philips screw can lead to stripping. - Avoid Over-tightening Be mindful of how much pressure you apply when tightening screws. Use torque settings if working with power tools. - Lubrication For screws exposed to the elements, a lubricant can help provide a smoother turning experience and prevent corrosion.

Conclusion

Stripped screws are an inevitable part of working with fasteners, but armed with the right tools and techniques, they can be managed effectively. From using everyday household items like rubber bands to more specialized tools like screw extractors, there are several ways to deal with this pesky issue. Remember to exercise care and patience, and adopt preventative measures to reduce the chances of encountering stripped screws in the future. Happy fixing!