A stripped screw has a damaged head that your driver can no longer grip, but several tricks can still back it out. This walks through the easiest methods first, from added grip to cutting a new slot, so you can free the screw without wrecking the surrounding material.
What you'll need
- A screwdriver or drill
- A rubber band or steel wool
- Pliers or locking pliers
- A rotary tool or hacksaw blade
- A screw extractor set (optional)
Step by step
- Add grip with a rubber bandLay a wide rubber band flat over the screw head and press your driver firmly into it. The rubber fills the damaged grooves and can give enough bite to turn the screw.
- Press hard and turn slowlyPush down with strong, steady pressure while turning slowly. Most stripping happens because the driver lifts out, so firm downward force is key.
- Try a larger or different driverFit the biggest driver that still seats in the head, or switch between flat and cross-head bits to find one that grips the remaining shape.
- Grab the head with pliersIf the screw head sticks out, clamp locking pliers onto it and twist the whole screw out slowly.
- Cut a new slotFor a flush screw, use a rotary tool or hacksaw blade to cut a straight groove across the head, then remove it with a flat-head screwdriver.
- Use a screw extractor as a last resortDrill a small pilot hole into the head, then thread a reverse-fluted extractor bit in counterclockwise so it bites and backs the screw out.
Handy tips
- Steel wool or valve-grinding compound placed in the head can also boost your driver's grip.
- Switch your drill to reverse at low speed so the bit does not spin uselessly in the head.
- Applying penetrating oil and waiting a few minutes helps if the screw is rusted or seized.
Heads up
- Wear eye protection when cutting or drilling, since metal fragments can fly. Take care with rotary tools near finished surfaces so you do not gouge the material.
FAQ
What is the easiest method to try first?
The rubber band trick, because it costs nothing and often works. Only move on to cutting a slot or using an extractor if grip methods fail.
Do I need a special screw extractor tool?
Not always. Many stripped screws come out with a rubber band, pliers, or a freshly cut slot. Keep an extractor set on hand for the toughest cases.
How do I remove a stripped screw that is completely flush?
Cut a new straight slot across the head with a rotary tool or hacksaw blade, then turn it out with a flat-head driver, or drill it for an extractor.