How to Fix Loose Wood Screws

Screws are harder than wood and can sometimes "wear away" the interior wood that holds them in place. The result is a loose screw that continually makes its way out of the hole. You can continue to tighten the screw back down with a screwdriver, but eventually there will be no real surface area for the screw threads to hang on to. When you find that the screw is simply too loose for the screwdriver, you can repair it using a dowel rod, wood glue, a drill and a screwdriver.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Drill
• Screwdriver
• Small paint brush
• Dowel rod
• Wood glue
• Sandpaper
• Utility knife

1. Remove the screw from the hole with either a screwdriver or a drill. Once the screw is removed, inspect it to ensure the threading is in good shape.

2. Drill the hole so it is slightly larger. Remove dust and debris from the hole with a very small paintbrush. Put the tip of the brush into the hole and dust out any loose debris.

3. Cut a dowel rod that is the same diameter as the hole so you have a length just slightly longer than the depth of the hole.

4. Place a bead of wood glue onto the tip and to either side of the dowel rod and insert it into the hole. Wipe any excess glue off from around the hole if necessary. Allow the glue to dry.

5. Use a utility knife to cut the end of the dowel rod so it is flush with the wood. Sand down if necessary. Drill a pilot hole for the screw into the dowel rod. Wipe away any dust.

6. Insert the screw into the pilot hole and tighten down with either the drill or a screwdriver.