Are you tired of trying to remove a stripped screw? Well, you’re not alone.

Stripped screws can be a real headache and make even the simplest task seem impossible. But fear not; with the right tools and techniques, you can easily unstrip a screw and save yourself from frustration.

Stripped screws can be a frustrating obstacle during any DIY project or repair task. When a screw head becomes damaged, either through over-tightening or using the wrong tools, it may become challenging to remove.

However, with the right techniques and tools, unstripping a screw is often simpler than it first appears.

This guide will provide you with various methods of how to unstrip a screw, allowing you to proceed with your project without unnecessary delays. Whether you’re dealing with a stripped Philips, flathead, or Torx screw, these techniques will equip you to tackle the problem efficiently.

What Will You Need?

Before attempting to unstrap a screw, make sure you have the following tools and materials on hand:

• Screwdriver or Power Drill: The type of screwdriver will depend on the type of screw head. Make sure to use the correct size for optimal grip. Alternatively, a power drill can also be used for extra torque.
• Rubber Band or Elastic Band: This will act as an additional grip when turning the screwdriver.
• Pliers: Useful for removing small screws or holding onto the screw head while turning with a screwdriver.
• Hammer and Chisel: For extreme cases of stripped screws, you may need to create a new slot on the screw head using a hammer and chisel.

Once you have all the necessary tools, it’s time to get started on unstripping that pesky screw.

10 Easy Steps on How to Unstrip a Screw

Step 1. Assess the Damage:

Before attempting any solutions, it is crucial to assess the extent of the damage to the screw head. Examine the screw closely to understand how badly it is stripped. Is the head completely rounded off, or are there still some edges that you can use for grip? Identifying the level of damage will help you determine the most effective removal method.

If the screw head is only partially stripped, a more straightforward solution might suffice. However, if the head is severely damaged, you may need to employ multiple techniques or more advanced tools.

Step 2. Use a Rubber Band:

If the screw is not too badly stripped, try the rubber band method first. Place a rubber band over the stripped screw head and insert your screwdriver into the rubber band. The elasticity of the rubber band should provide extra grip and help you turn the screw without slipping.

Press down firmly to ensure the screwdriver remains in contact with the rubber band and the screw throughout the process. This method is particularly effective for screws that are only slightly damaged and can save you considerable time and effort.

Step 3. Try a Different Screwdriver:

Sometimes, simply switching to a different screwdriver can help. Over time, the tip of a frequently used screwdriver can wear down, diminishing its effectiveness. Opt for a new screwdriver that matches the type and size of the screw head.

For instance, a precision screwdriver might provide a better fit for smaller screws. Also, consider using a manual screwdriver instead of a power drill for better control. Applying firm, consistent pressure while turning the screwdriver can help loosen the screw effectively.

Step 4. Apply a Penetrating Oil:

Penetrating oils like WD-40 can be beneficial in loosening stubborn screws. Spray a small amount of penetrating oil onto the screw and let it sit for about 15 minutes. This will allow the oil to seep into the threads, reducing friction and making it easier to turn the screw.

After the oil has had time to penetrate, use your screwdriver to try and remove the screw. Be cautious not to overdo it with the oil, as excessive amounts can make it difficult to maintain a good grip on the screw head.

Step 5. Use Pliers:

For screws that have a protruding head, pliers can be very effective. Grip the screw head with a pair of needle-nose or locking pliers and turn counterclockwise to loosen it. Apply steady pressure and make sure to maintain a firm grip to avoid further stripping the screw head.

This method works well when there is enough of the screw head exposed to get a good hold. In cases where the head is nearly flush with the surface, you might need to use pliers in conjunction with other techniques.

Step 6. Create a New Slot:

If the screw head is so damaged that nothing seems to work, you can create a new slot using a hammer and chisel, or a flathead screwdriver. Position the chisel or flathead screwdriver at the edge of the screw head and gently tap with the hammer to create a notch.

Once a notch is formed, use a flathead screwdriver to turn the screw. This method requires precision and caution to avoid damaging the surrounding material. Creating a new slot can provide just enough grip to remove a heavily stripped screw.

Step 7. Use a Screw Extractor:

Screw extractors are specialized tools designed to remove stripped screws. This is a last-resort solution but highly effective for severely damaged screws. To use a screw extractor, first drill a small hole into the center of the screw head.

Then, insert the screw extractor into the hole and turn it counterclockwise. The threads on the screw extractor will grip the inside of the hole and allow you to back out the screw. Screw extractors come in various sizes, so make sure to choose one that matches the size of the screw you are attempting to remove.

Step 8. Heat the Screw:

Applying heat to a stubborn screw can help to expand the metal and make it easier to remove. Use a heat gun or a soldering iron to apply heat directly to the screw head for a few minutes.

Be cautious and ensure the surrounding material can withstand high temperatures. Once heated, try removing the screw with a screwdriver or pliers. This method is beneficial for screws that are glued or corroded in place.

Step 9. Use the Drill Again:

If all other methods fail, you might need to use a power drill to remove the screw completely. Select a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the screw shaft and drill straight into the screw head.

This will detach the head from the shaft, allowing you to remove the remaining screw body using pliers. This method destroys the screw, so it should only be used as a last resort.

Step 10. Apply Consistent Pressure:

Throughout all these steps, the key is to apply consistent and firm pressure without stripping the screw further.

Take your time with each method and ensure you have a secure grip on both the tool and the screw head. Patience and precision are vital to successfully removing a stripped screw without causing further damage to the surrounding material.

By following these steps and using the appropriate tools and techniques, you can effectively remove stripped screws and save yourself time, money, and frustration in the process.

5 Additional Tips and Tricks

1. Use Superglue: Before attempting to remove the screw, apply a small amount of superglue onto the tip of your screwdriver and insert it into the stripped screw head. Let it dry for a few minutes, then try turning the screw again. The hardened glue can add extra grip and help you remove the stripped screw.
2. Use an Impact Driver: An impact driver is a tool specifically designed to loosen stubborn screws. It uses downward force to drive the bit into the screw head while simultaneously rotating in reverse.
3. Try Reverse Thread Screws: If you have access to reverse thread screws, they can be a useful alternative for removing stripped screws. These screws are designed to turn in the opposite direction of traditional screws and can help loosen stubborn ones.
4. Use a Dremel Tool: If you have access to a Dremel or rotary tool, you can use it to cut a new groove into the top of the screw head. This will allow you to use a flathead screwdriver to remove the screw.
5. Prevent Stripped Screws in the Future: To avoid dealing with stripped screws in the future, make sure to choose high-quality tools appropriate for

5 Things You Should Avoid

1. Using the Wrong Tools: Avoid using tools that are not designed for the job, such as pliers or a butter knife. These tools can further damage the screw head and make it even more difficult to remove.
2. Applying Excessive Force: Over-tightening or using too much force can strip the screw even more. A gentle, steady approach with the right amount of pressure is usually more effective.
3. Ignoring Proper Technique: Don’t disregard the proper techniques for screw extraction, such as using a rubber band for additional grip or utilizing a screw extractor kit. These methods are specifically designed to help with stripped screws and can save time and effort.
4. Using Low-Quality Extractors: Cheap or low-quality screw extractors can break inside the screw head, complicating the removal process. Invest in a high-quality set that is more durable and reliable.
5. Not Preparing the Screw: Attempting to extract a stripped screw without preparing it can lead to further complications. Methods like tapping the screw head with a hammer or cleaning out the debris from the strip can make a significant difference in the ease of removal.

Conclusion

How to unstrip a screw can be a challenging and time-consuming task, but with the right tools, techniques, and a bit of patience, it is entirely manageable.

This guide provides a comprehensive list of methods — from applying penetrating oil and using pliers to creating a new slot and employing heat. Each step is designed to address different aspects of the problem, ensuring that even the most stubborn screws can be tackled effectively.

Additionally, understanding what to avoid, such as using the wrong tools or applying excessive force, is crucial in preventing further damage and complications.

By following this systematic approach and being mindful of the common pitfalls, you can successfully extract stripped screws and maintain the integrity of your projects.