How to fix stripped screw hole. Using the wrong size or tool can lead to stripped screws, which render them useless. If this happens, there are ways to fix a stripped screw hole with the right tools.
You may be able to perform a quick fix by using toothpicks or wall plugs. However, if the stripped screw hole is significantly larger, you may need to use an auto body filler inside of it in order to create new threads for more effective repairs.
How to fix stripped screw hole
We’ve all experienced loose screws. Either they’re stripped by the handle of the screwdriver, or they come out at a bad angle, bent and stretched, and your board was just too hard to grip.
Putting gorilla glue in might have helped, but it dries too fast without reaching that bonding point between wood and metal that’s needed. You can fix it yourself so you won’t have to pay someone else to do it.
The Toothpick Fix method
If you can, it might be smart to drill a hole slightly smaller than the diameter of the screw at the very top of where you want the dowel to go before driving in the screw.
The idea here is that you’ll be able to drive screws into holes that have been pre-drilled for them first, and therefore have a cleaner cut down deeper into your material.
You’re going to want wooden toothpicks or wood matches because drilling through hardwood with regular long screws is difficult and prone to snapping.
If you don’t mind getting your hands dirty, consider using a drill bit made for drywall by using a reverse motion on your saw.
Gluing matchsticks together before putting them in the hole isn’t necessary, but it can be helpful.
Set of Screw Repair Kits
There are some manufacturers who offer repair kits that are sold by online retailers and woodshops.
Typically, these kiosks consist of plastic anchors and glue that can be used to fix a screw that has become loose out of the blue.
This kit may be a good choice for simple, lightweight applications, but it is not the best option for most situations. The other DIY fixes we describe below are also much less expensive.
Using a larger screw
To begin with, try using screws that are shorter. You may consider upping the TPI or choosing a screw that is somewhat wider if that’s not possible. Do not use a spike or anything similar.
After some time, the protruding material of the old screw may get jammed inside and even cause further damage. When replacing it, don’t go overboard.
Aim for something realistic that won’t make things worse. It is also important to get as much pressure on the screwdriver as possible without making matters worse by drilling new holes in the wood.
If you’re having trouble driving a screw into wood, add a little more pressure to what feels comfortable…
MDF (medium-density fiberboard)
Stick filling may not fix a hole in particleboard or MDF. It is made up of tiny wood particles bound together with glue and resin, making it susceptible to “stripping.” Screw holes”.
Some have been stripped Bolt in cases where the hole was created by a newer machine, stick fill fillers can be used Bolt. Older screws may need additional methods to repair stripped holes, such as:
The screw hole can be enlarged by drilling out with a 1/2-inch bit and then filling the enlarged hole with a glued 1/2-inch hardwood plug (or solid hardwood dowel). These products are also available at woodworking suppliers, home centers, and hobby shops.