How to Remove Damaged Screws
Removing a damaged (or stripped) screw is often a trying experience because it can slow down an entire project. The frustration is compounded when the screw becomes even more damaged as you try to remove it. The degree of difficulty for extracting a screw usually hinges upon how much it is damaged. You can remove a damaged screw with the correct tools and by following a few relatively easy procedures. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
- Hammer
- Disc cutter
- Dremmel tool
- Power drill
- Screw extractor
- Left-handed drill bit
- Hacksaw
Instructions
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Use a screwdriver designed for screw heads bigger than your damaged screw. It's possible this will provide a better bite (or grip). Remove the screw by turning it counterclockwise with a screwdriver or pliers.
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Hammer a Phillips-head screwdriver into the head of the damaged screw. Push at an angle, and rock the screwdriver back and forth. Remove the screw by turning it counterclockwise.
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Cut a new slot in the head of the screw, or deepen the existing one with a disc cutter or dremmel tool. Turn the screw counterclockwise with the screwdriver.
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4
Drill a hole into the head of the screw. Place a Phillips-head screwdriver into the hole. Remove the screw by turning it counterclockwise.
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Remove the screw with a screw extractor, or a left-handed drill bit. Push (or tap) the screw extractor into hole. Attach a wrench, and turn out the screw.
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Remove the screw head with a drill or hacksaw. Drill through the shank of the screw, starting with a drill bit that is smaller than the shank. Increase bit sizes and repeat drilling until only small traces remain of the screw.
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Tips & Warnings
If the screw head has been covered with paint, clean out the groove before removing it with a screwdriver. Try turning the screw in both directions. This may also help loosen it.
