Stymied by stripped screws and fishing for a fast fix? Well, we’re here to offer a whole lot more than just whimsical alliteration. Stripped screws are a headache to remove, as a screwdriver alone lacks sufficient traction. Thankfully, a rubber band can change all that, helping you remove stripped screws with ease.
Why Do Screws Get Stripped?
Before diving into this hack, it’s worth knowing what stripped screws are and why they happen. A stripped screw is one on which the head’s slots are worn down, making it nearly impossible for you to insert a screwdriver and maintain a tight grip.
Stripped screws happen, in part, because of the low-quality metals used to make many cheap screws. These screws wear down easily if you apply too much force, especially when using a power drill. Once a screw gets stripped, it’s not a huge deal so long as you leave it there. But trying to remove it is a far more challenging ordeal.
More from our network
House Outlook is part of Optimism, which publishes content that uplifts, informs, and inspires.
Rubber Band, You’re the One
To get rid of a stripped screw, all you’ll need is a wide rubber band that covers the width of the head, plus a screwdriver that would normally fit the screw. Place the rubber band flat against the screw head before firmly pressing the screwdriver against the rubber and into the damaged slots. Turn the screwdriver counterclockwise, and after a few twists, you should notice the screw start to loosen and eventually pop out.
The logic behind this trick has to do with the extra traction a rubber band provides. While the original slots of the screw head may be worn out, the rubber band fills every available crevice, creating a new, firmer surface for the screwdriver to grip. This provides the additional traction needed to remove the stripped screw.
How To Prevent Stripped Screws
Now that you’ve removed that pesky stripped screw, here are some helpful tips you can use to reduce the likelihood of it happening again. First, always use a screwdriver that fits, rather than one that’s too big or small; an improperly sized tool can easily slide out and damage the screw head. Hold the screwdriver straight rather than at an angle, as the latter increases the risk of slippage and damage. Lastly, apply downward pressure before ever twisting the screw, or you’ll cause the screwdriver to come loose.
