How to Remove Rounded Screws
Are you struggling to remove a rounded screw?
It’s a frustrating, time-consuming situation that no one wants to find themselves in. But fear not! eFixings is here to give you the low-down on how to solve the problem.
We’ll tell you eight techniques and give you detailed, step-by-step instructions on how to remove rounded screws.
1. Use a manual screwdriver
When the screwdriver bit slips against the screw head, you can improve your grip with simple techniques. First, use a hammer to tap the screwdriver down into the screw head, ensuring it’s firmly lodged.
If made from a soft metal, this extra grip can make it easier to twist the fastener. If this doesn’t work, you could cover the screw head with a rubber band or a small piece of duct tape with the adhesive side against the screw head.
Hopefully, this will create extra friction and give you a better grip on the screw. Press the material into the hole with the screwdriver and have another go!
2. Grab it with a drill
If a manual screwdriver isn’t cutting it, try the electric drill! When your screw isn’t entirely sunken, it may be possible to back it out by opening your drill's chuck and placing it over the screw’s head.
Then, tighten the chuck's jaws using your hand so they are completely over the screw. All that’s left to do is set your drill to reverse and release your rounded screw from its material.
3. Use a screw extractor
As their name suggests, a screw extractor can be a big helping hand when removing rounded screws. They’re specialist tools designed to remove screws without damaging the thread.
Depending on the size of your stripped screw, you’ll need to purchase a screw extractor kit that fits it. Then, grab your drill and load the extractor into the chuck, tightening the chuck so it firmly holds the extractor.
Remember to set your drill in reverse! The reverse-threaded extractor bit will then drill into your rounded screw, biting the head until it (eventually!) starts to turn the screw out.
4. Use left-handed drill bits
Now that we’ve tried both manual and electric drills, plus a screw extractor: what’s next?
Left-handed drill bits are specially designed to be used in reverse and will dig into your rounded screw for extra grip. Make sure to select a drill bit that’s slightly smaller than your rounded screw and tighten the bit into your drill.
Position the drill bit inside the screw's head, applying pressure so you get a guaranteed bite!
5. Cut a notch
If your rounded screw still isn’t releasing, you may need to use more destructive methods.
Cutting a notch with a rotary tool will allow you to use a flathead screwdriver to remove the screw. To begin, select a cutting wheel attachment for your rotary tool. Then, adjust the speed of your rotary tool to a medium setting.
Carefully position the cutting wheel against the top of the screw head and begin cutting a small notch into the surface. Take your time and be patient, ensuring the cutting wheel stays in contact with the screw head and does not slip.
After cutting a notch into the screw head, switch to a flathead screwdriver that fits snugly into the notch. Turn the screw counterclockwise with the screwdriver in place.
6. Use pliers
Pliers or vice-grips are excellent options when your rounded screw isn’t entirely buried in the material. Grab a pair of locking pliers and ensure the tool's jaws are clean and free from debris to avoid slipping.
Carefully position the tool's jaws around the edges of the screw head, applying firm pressure to get a good grip. Once you have a secure grip, turn the tool counterclockwise to remove the screw!
7. Use an impact driver
Impact drivers can be useful for removing rounded screws, as their high torque and concussive force can help make it easier to extract.
Select the right bit for the screw you’re working with (e.g. Flathead or Phillips) and insert the bit into the chuck of your impact driver. Carefully position the tip of the screwdriver bit onto the head of the rounded screw and apply downward pressure to the impact driver.
Make sure to put on your safety glasses before using a hammer to strike the handle of the impact driver. Do this several times to ensure the bit sets into the screw head. The impact driver will rotate, making the rounded screw easier to remove.
8. Use a wood plug cutter
Wood plug cutters will cause the most damage to your material, but desperate times call for desperate measures. With a powerful stripping mechanism, these tools a