How To Get A Screw Out With A Broken Head

How to Remove a Screw with a Broken Head: A Comprehensive Guide

Removing a screw with a stripped or broken head can be incredibly frustrating, but it's a common problem with a variety of solutions. This comprehensive guide explores several methods, from simple techniques to more advanced strategies, ensuring you can tackle this issue effectively, regardless of the screw type or material. This guide covers everything from basic tools to advanced techniques and will help you choose the best approach for your situation. Avoid damaging surrounding materials by carefully selecting the right method.

Why Screws Break: Understanding why a screw head breaks helps you prevent future issues. Common causes include over-tightening, using the wrong screwdriver bit, corroded screws, and impacts to the screw head.

Methods for Removing a Broken Screw Head:

1. Using a Screw Extractor: This is often the most effective method, especially for stubborn screws. Screw extractors are specialized tools with reverse-threaded bits that grip the broken screw and unscrew it.

* **Choosing the Right Extractor:** Select an extractor slightly smaller than the screw's diameter.  Different extractors are designed for different screw sizes and materials.
* **Drilling a Pilot Hole:** Carefully drill a pilot hole centered on the broken screw head, using a drill bit that's slightly smaller than the extractor's point.  Avoid drilling too deep.
* **Inserting and Turning:** Insert the extractor into the pilot hole and turn it counter-clockwise.  Apply steady pressure, and it should grip and remove the screw.  If it doesn't budge, try using penetrating oil first.

2. Employing Penetrating Oil: Before attempting any removal method, applying penetrating oil (like WD-40 or a similar product) can loosen the screw and make extraction easier. Allow sufficient time for the oil to penetrate the threads.

3. Utilizing a Rubber Band: This simple trick works surprisingly well for small screws with slightly damaged heads. Place a rubber band over the screw head, then position your screwdriver on top. The rubber band provides added grip, improving the chances of turning the screw.

4. Utilizing a Grip Tool: Specialized grip tools, such as those with gripping teeth or jaws, are designed to grasp the screw head even when damaged. These tools offer a strong grip and can be more effective than standard screwdrivers for stripped screws.

5. Employing a Dremel or Rotary Tool: For very stubborn or completely submerged screws, a Dremel or rotary tool with a small cutting bit can create a new slot for a flat-head screwdriver. Be extremely cautious and avoid damaging surrounding materials. Take your time, working slowly and carefully.

6. Using Vice Grips or Pliers: As a last resort, you can attempt to grip the screw head with pliers or vice grips. This method is less precise and carries a higher risk of damaging the surrounding material, but it's sometimes necessary for particularly stubborn screws.

7. Drilling Out the Screw: If all else fails, you may need to drill out the screw completely. This requires precision drilling to avoid damage, and may necessitate replacing the damaged item.

Preventing Broken Screw Heads:

• Use the Correct Screwdriver: Employ a screwdriver that perfectly matches the screw head's size and type.
• Apply the Right Pressure: Avoid over-tightening screws.
• Lubricate the Threads: Use lubricant, especially on metal-to-metal screws.
• Use a Power Drill Carefully: Control the speed and pressure when using a power drill.

Choosing the Right Approach: The best method depends on several factors, including the screw's size, material, the extent of the damage, and your available tools. Start with simpler methods and progressively move towards more advanced techniques if necessary. Remember patience and caution are key to successful screw removal. If you're unsure about any of these techniques, consider seeking professional assistance.