How to Reinstall Screws and Bolts

Even the least handy among us needs to know how to hammer a nail and screw in a screw. But over time when things break, we may need to do it again on the same piece of equipment or furniture. This is where a light touch is required so as not to strip the screw. Here's how to reinstall screws and bolts next time you are doing home repair.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Screws
• Bolts
• Screwdriver (phillips or flathead)
• Furniture, appliance or other project you are working on

1. Align your screws to make sure they are the correct size. If you have just pulled the old screw out and are merely about to put it back in the hole, then you know it's correct. But if you are replacing a stripped screw, hold them side by side and make sure they are the same size and width.

2. Clear the hole where you will place the screw. Many times debris can fill the screw holes during repairs. You can blow through the hole to clear it, bang it out by tapping the object or even take a vacuum suction hose and place it over the hole.

3. Reinstall your screws and bolts into the appropriate holes. If it is a bolt and screw, hold the bolt on the other side as you place the tip of the screw in the hole.

4. Turn your screw gently using your screwdriver a couple of revolutions counter-clockwise. When you feel it "click" it will be in the original groove thread.

5. Screw your screws and bolts in clockwise. Once in the thread, you are ready to finish the reinstall. Just continue turning the screwdriver until the screws and bolts are tight.

Tips & Warnings

• If you feel a lot of resistance, back the screw out and start over. Check that you are approaching the hole from a perpendicular angle as you reinstall it.