5 Ways to Remove a Stuck Screw

Removing a stuck screw can be something very difficult and annoying. Stuck and other stubborn screws that cannot be removed easily are caused by rust and corrosion that accumulates around the screw’s body. Hence, to remove the screw, you must first break the rust and corrosion that surrounds it. To do this, try these 5 recommended steps and you should be able to remove the screw afterwards.

Removing Stuck Screws

1. With Correct Tool and Method

The first step in removing a stuck screw is to ensure that you are using the right screwdriver. In case you can’t move the screw at all, try to tighten it first. This will break free the screw and you should be able to remove the screw at this stage. Tapping the screwdriver lightly with hammer when it is placed on the screw head is another way to remove the screw.

2. Chemical removal

Add chemicals such as Pepsi, Coke, Hydrogen Peroxide or Lemon Juice and allow it to soak through the screw hole. Also, you may tap the screw continuously to allow deeper penetration of the chemical for deeper penetration and easy removal. Allow the chemical to remain for a while and then try to remove the screw.

3. Heat and Cool Method

Before attempting the heat and cold method, be sure that the material in which your screw is stuck in can withstand the temperature difference. Heat the screw up with butane or propane torch to expand it. Instead of these hydrocarbons, you can use a soldering iron or hot glue gun (without glue). After applying heat, allow the screw to cool and you should be able to remove the screw afterwards. Alternatively, cold temperature is another way to remove stuck screws. Apply dry ice against the screw until it is sufficiently cooled and try to remove the screw again.

If you are going for this method, remember to keep your fingers safe by not tampering with the screws when they are hot and by avoiding flammable oils when heating.

4. Destruction

If you are desperate to get the screw out of your material, then you can destroy it. This is usually the last resort for individuals who are impatient and absolutely need to get the screw out, especially in cases when one is locked outside the room in a hot sun or rainy period. However, you should be careful not to destroy the screw hole in the process. Destruction method involves using chisel to knock out the screw or by drilling.

5. Drastic Measures

Some screws are just so desperate that they wouldn’t remove without using a screw extractor. Drill and create a hole into the screw and insert your screw extractor. After a few rotations, the screw should be loosed and removed. Another drastic method is the spark erosion. Spat erosion dissolves the screw without causing any harm to the surrounding material. Electric discharge machining is another drastic method. Although this service is not readily available, one has to consult facilities that provide this service. Nevertheless, screw removal doesn’t worth this effort.

Conclusively, patience and persistence is the best method of removing stuck screw. Continue trying the techniques above and that stuck screw will be out. Truly, a stuck screw can be very difficult to remove and the process can be annoying, one of the above methods will definitely get that stubborn screw out.

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Jet Fitting & Supply Corporation

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The premier fastener supplier in the industry & serving customers since 1946 with a huge selection, industry leading service. https://www.jetfitting.com/

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