Fastening has always been associated with risks and challenges that can be sometimes frustrating to work with. Fastener screws are essential to most of our home appliances, furniture, and home projects such as renovations, decorations, etc. Often individuals may face various challenges in fastening, yet DIY-ing doesn’t need to be a daunting task anymore as we will explore different techniques that will help in dealing with stripped screws.

What Causes Stripping of Screws?

Understanding the cause of stripped screws can enable us to find better solutions or judgment on the next steps to implement in fastening. Stripped screws occur when the grooves or threads on the screw head are damaged or worn down. This makes it difficult for the screwdriver or tools to turn the screw for removal or installation. While the common cause of having stripped screws are; applying too much force, using the wrong size screwdriver or bit, and wear or tear over time. To manage and possibly prevent stripping of screws let’s get to know some methods in this article.

How to Remove Stripped Screws

Choose the Right Tools

Installation of screws plays a big part in its success even in the long run, and just by choosing the right tools you can reduce the risk of stripped screws in the future. Selecting screwdriver bit for installation of screws should be in the right size and using worn or damaged tools must be avoided. When turning the screw the pressure should be maintained with a firm grip and never use excessive force as it may lead to stripping.

Grip and Turn

When faced with the problem of a stripped screw, common methods like rubber bands and pliers or vice grips can help in removing it successfully. The rubber band method should be done by placing it over the stripped screw head and pressing it down firmly with the screwdriver. While pliers or vice grips are used to grip the screw head tightly and then turn it counterclockwise. Be sure not to damage the surrounding material.

Create New Grooves

More techniques for dealing with stripped screws is to consider creating new grooves for turning the screw. Using a Dremel or rotary tool carefully grind edges on the head of the screw to create a new shape that a screwdriver or pliers can grip into. You may also use a hammer and chisel, tap into the groove with the hammer and chisel, and turn it with the tools.

Use Specialty Tools

Some fastening projects may frequently deal with stripped screws and investing in specialty tools can save you the extra time of dealing with the problem. The screw extractor is designed to grip onto the stripped screw and turn it counterclockwise. Another tool is the left-handed drill bits which turn the screw counterclockwise to extract the screw as you drill into it.

When all else fails, a last resort can be implemented for deeply embedded screws or stubbornly stripped screws. Drilling the screw out and repairing the hole afterward can help the situation better. And remember to practice patience, steady pressure, and appropriate method in specific situations of fastening.

To learn more fastening tips and tricks you can visit our page – Prince Fastener Manufacturing Co., Ltd. We carry a wide range of fasteners, screws, bolts, nuts, and custom fasteners. Get the highest quality devices and tools for the right price, contact us now!