How to Loosen Rusted Screws
As most builders already know, nothing is worse than running into a rusted screw. It is important to handle this rusted screw properly, otherwise it could end up with a stripped head, which will make it much more difficult to remove. Rusted screws with stripped or damaged heads most commonly are removed by drilling into the wall or surface they are stuck into. This process is not ideal if you are working on an interior wall or board where you do not want to have to cover up drill marks. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Screwdriver
- Penetrating oil or lubricant
- Hammer
- Impact driver
- Household cleaner
Instructions
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1
Squirt penetrating oil or a lubricant on the head of the screw. Allow it to sit for several minutes. This lubricant should crack through the corrosive seal formed by the rust.
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2
Select a screwdriver that is the proper size to fit in the screw head. Do not use a power tool to try to take the screw out, as it could end up stripping the head of the screw. Make sure the screwdriver tip completely fills the head of the screw, especially if it is a flathead screwdriver. The tip should fit snugly into the head of the screw without needing to be jammed in.
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3
Insert the screwdriver into the screw head and use one hand to press the screwdriver hard into the screw. With the other hand, turn the screwdriver counter clockwise to loosen the screw. Give it several tries, as the seal of the rust needs to be broken with a good amount of pressure. Apply more oil if necessary.
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4
Dip the end of the screwdriver in household cleaner if you are having trouble loosening the screw. The abrasive nature of the cleaner should allow you to use more force when attempting to twist the screw loose. While twisting, gently tap the screwdriver with the hammer, which should break the seal of corrosion created by the rust.
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Insert an impact driver into the driver, and hit it with a hammer in a downward motion. The downward force should be enough to knock the screw out of place. This step should not be used on fragile surfaces that may break, such as a weak doorframe.
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Tips & Warnings
For screws that have become stripped or damage, you will need to drive off the head, and then remove the stub with heat and Vise grips.
