You’ve been there. You’re unscrewing a stubborn fastener, everything is going well, and then you feel it—that sickening, sudden slip. The screwdriver spins freely, the screw head is stripped, and you’re officially stuck.
A stripped screw is one of the most frustrating things in woodworking. It can bring a project to a complete halt and leave you feeling completely defeated. But don’t worry, a stripped screw isn’t an impossible problem. With a few simple tricks and the right tools, you can get it out and get back to work.
This guide will walk you through a few different methods, from the easiest fix to the most aggressive, so you can choose the right solution for your situation.
Method 1: The Rubber Band Trick (The Easiest Fix to a Stripped Screw)
This is the first thing you should try. It’s surprisingly effective, and all you need is a common household item.
How It Works
A rubber band provides a layer of grip between the stripped screw head and your screwdriver bit. The rubber fills in the gap where the screw head’s ridges have worn away, giving you just enough friction to get the screw to turn.
Step-by-Step
- Find a Rubber Band: Grab a thick, wide rubber band. A thicker one is better than a thin one.
- Place It on the Screw: Lay the rubber band flat over the top of the stripped screw.
- Use Your Screwdriver: Insert your screwdriver or drill bit and press down firmly. The key is to apply downward pressure to ensure the rubber band grips the stripped screw head.
- Slowly Unscrew: With steady, firm pressure, slowly turn the screw counter-clockwise. You may feel a bit of resistance, but if you’re lucky, the screw will begin to back out.
My Take: This method is the “Hail Mary” of stripped screws. It works a surprising amount of the time, especially on screws that are only partially stripped. Always try this one first.
Method 2: The Screw Extractor (The Professional Solution)
If the rubber band trick fails, it’s time to bring out the big guns. A screw extractor is a small but powerful tool designed for this exact problem. Every woodworker should have a set in their toolbox.
How It Works
A screw extractor is a drill bit with reverse threads. You drill a small hole into the center of the stripped screw head, and then the extractor bites into the hole as it spins in reverse, gripping the screw and forcing it out.
Step-by-Step
- Choose the Right Size: Select a screw extractor bit that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the screw you’re trying to remove.
- Drill a Pilot Hole: Chuck the drill bit into your drill. Using a very slow speed, drill a small pilot hole into the center of the stripped screw head. Drill just deep enough for the extractor to get a good bite.
- Insert the Extractor: Switch out the drill bit for the screw extractor. Make sure your drill is set to reverse.
- Extract the Screw: Press down with firm, steady pressure. As the extractor turns, its reverse threads will bite into the screw head, gripping it and backing it out of the wood.
My Take: A screw extractor is the most reliable method for a severely stripped screw. It’s an essential tool that will save you from a lot of frustration.
Method 3: The Grinding Tool (The “Break Glass in Case of Emergency” Option)
This method is for when the screw is completely stuck and nothing else is working. It’s a bit more aggressive, so use it as a last resort.
How It Works
You’ll use a rotary tool (like a Dremel) with a grinding or cutting bit to cut a new slot into the top of the stripped screw head. This turns the stripped Phillips or star head into a flathead screw.
Step-by-Step
- Choose a Bit: Use a small grinding bit or a cutting wheel on your rotary tool.
- Cut a Slot: Carefully cut a straight, deep groove into the top of the stripped screw head. Take your time and wear safety glasses—sparks and metal shavings will fly.
- Use a Flathead Screwdriver: Once you have a good slot, use a flathead screwdriver that fits snugly into the new groove. Apply firm pressure and slowly unscrew it.
My Take: This method works well for screws that are partially exposed, but it’s messy and can damage the surrounding wood if you’re not careful. It’s best used on screws that are in an inconspicuous spot.
What if the Screw Head Breaks Off?
This is a worst-case scenario. If your screw breaks off flush with the wood, you have a few options:
- Drill It Out: Use a drill bit that is the same size as the screw shank and carefully drill out the screw. This will likely damage the surrounding wood, so you’ll have to fill the hole with wood filler or a dowel.
- Use a Dowel: Drill a slightly larger hole around the broken screw, and then use a pair of pliers to remove the remaining pieces. Fill the hole with a piece of dowel and glue.
How to Prevent Stripped Screws in the Future
The best solution is always prevention. Here are some quick tips:
- Pilot Holes: Always drill a pilot hole that is the right size for your screw. The rule of thumb is to use a bit that is the same diameter as the shank (the part of the screw without threads).
- Proper Bit: Make sure your screwdriver or drill bit fits snugly into the screw head. A loose-fitting bit is the main cause of stripping.
- The Right Tool: Use an impact driver for stubborn screws. The percussive action helps drive the screw without stripping the head.
- Downward Pressure: Always apply firm, consistent downward pressure while screwing.
FAQs: How to Remove a Stripped Screw from Wood
1. What does “stripped screw” even mean?
A stripped screw refers to one where the head’s grooves or “drive” (like a Phillips or slotted head) have been damaged, making it impossible for a screwdriver or drill bit to get a grip and turn it.
2.What’s the easiest and first thing I should try?
Start with the “rubber band trick.” Place a wide, flat rubber band over the stripped screw head, then press your screwdriver or drill bit firmly into the rubber band. The rubber fills the damaged grooves, providing the friction you need to turn the screw slowly.
3.What if the rubber band trick doesn’t work?
If the screw is still too stuck, try using a slightly different style of bit. For a stripped Phillips head, a larger size Phillips bit or even a Torx or flathead bit might be able to find purchase in the remaining grooves.
4. How can I get a better grip if part of the screw head is exposed?
If the screw is sticking out of the wood at all, a pair of locking pliers (like Vice-Grips) is your best friend. Clamp the pliers tightly onto the screw head and turn it counter-clockwise to back the screw out.
5. Is there a way to cut a new slot in the screw?
Yes. If the screw head is a bit raised, you can use a Dremel rotary tool with a cutting wheel to carefully cut a new, straight slot across the top. This effectively turns it into a flathead screw that you can remove with a flathead screwdriver.
6. What is a screw extractor kit and how does it work?
A screw extractor is a specialized tool designed for this exact problem. It’s a two-part bit: one end drills a small pilot hole into the center of the stripped screw, and the other has a reverse-threaded, tapered end that bites into the hole. When you turn it counter-clockwise, it grips the screw and pulls it out.
7. What about using a hammer?
For screws that are not deeply recessed, you can use a hammer. Place a manual screwdriver (flathead or the appropriate type) into the screw head and gently tap it with the hammer to lodge the bit more securely into the stripped grooves. Then, while applying firm downward pressure, try to turn the screw.
8. Can I use a left-handed drill bit?
Yes, these are another great option. Left-handed drill bits are designed to spin in reverse. As you drill into the stripped screw, the bit will often catch on the metal and, because it’s turning in the “unscrewing” direction, it will back the screw right out.
9. What’s the final, most destructive option if nothing else works?
If all other methods fail, you can drill out the entire screw. Use a drill bit that is the same size as the screw shank and carefully drill straight down through the screw head. This will separate the head from the body, allowing you to remove the object it was holding in place. You can then use pliers to remove the remaining screw shaft.
10. How do I prevent screws from stripping in the future?
Use the correct size and type of screwdriver or drill bit for the screw you are using. Make sure the bit is fully seated in the screw head before applying pressure. Start slowly and with firm, consistent downward pressure to prevent the bit from “camming out” and stripping the head.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let a Stripped Screw Ruin Your Day
A stripped screw is a pain, but it doesn’t have to be a project-ender. With a simple rubber band or a dedicated screw extractor, you can turn a frustrating problem into a quick fix and get back to doing what you love.
