The Art of How to Drill Out Screw: Mastering the Technique for Perfect Results Every Time

Have you ever encountered a stubborn screw that just won’t budge? It’s a frustrating experience, especially when you’re in the middle of a project and need to remove it. Whether it’s stripped, rusted, or simply stuck, knowing how to drill out a screw can save you time, effort, and maybe even your sanity.

Why Screws Get Stuck

Before we delve into the drilling process, let’s understand why screws get stuck in the first place. This knowledge will help you prevent future frustrations.

• Stripped Screw Heads: Over-tightening or using the wrong screwdriver size can damage the screw head, making it difficult to grip.
• Rust and Corrosion: Exposure to moisture can cause screws to rust and seize up, making them resistant to removal.
• Overtightening: Excessive force during installation can cause the screw to become tightly embedded, making it nearly impossible to loosen.
• Wood Expansion and Contraction: Wood expands and contracts with changes in humidity, which can cause screws to become trapped.
• Paint or Glue: Paint or glue can build up around the screw head, hindering its removal.

Tools You’ll Need

To successfully drill out a screw, you’ll need a few essential tools:

• Drill: A cordless drill with variable speed settings is ideal.
• Drill Bits: A set of drill bits in various sizes is essential.
• Center Punch: This tool helps you mark the center of the screw head accurately.
• Safety Glasses: Always protect your eyes when drilling.
• Work Gloves: Gloves provide a secure grip and protect your hands.
• Screwdriver: You might need a screwdriver to loosen the screw before drilling.
• Pliers: Pliers can help you grip and remove the screw head after drilling.
• Extraction Tool: A specialized tool designed for removing broken screws.

Step-by-Step Guide to Drilling Out a Screw

Now, let’s walk through the process of drilling out a screw:
1. Assess the Situation: Before you start drilling, carefully examine the screw. Is it stripped, rusted, or simply stuck? This assessment will help you choose the right drill bit and approach.
2. Mark the Center: Use a center punch to mark the exact center of the screw head. This will help you drill accurately and prevent the drill bit from wandering.
3. Choose the Right Drill Bit: Select a drill bit slightly smaller than the diameter of the screw. For example, if the screw is 6mm in diameter, use a 5mm drill bit.
4. Start Drilling: Set your drill to a low speed and gently start drilling into the center of the screw head. Apply light pressure and avoid forcing the drill.
5. Drill Slowly and Carefully: As you drill, keep the drill bit perpendicular to the surface. If you feel resistance, stop drilling and reassess the situation. You may need to use a larger drill bit or a different approach.
6. Remove the Screw Head: Once you’ve drilled through the majority of the screw head, you can use pliers to remove the remaining portion. Be careful not to damage the surrounding material.
7. Clean Up: After removing the screw head, use a drill bit to clean out the screw hole. This will prepare the hole for a new screw.

Dealing with Stubborn Screws

Sometimes, drilling out a screw can be more challenging. Here are some additional tips for dealing with stubborn screws:

• Use a Screw Extractor: If the screw head is severely stripped or broken, a screw extractor can be a lifesaver. These tools have a tapered design that grips the screw and allows you to twist it out.
• Apply Heat: Heat can help loosen rusted screws. Use a heat gun or torch to gently heat the screw head before attempting to remove it.
• Penetrating Oil: Applying penetrating oil to the screw can help loosen it up. Allow the oil to soak in for several minutes before trying to remove the screw.
• Use a Reverse Drill: If you have a reverse drill, you can try drilling in reverse to loosen the screw. Be careful not to damage the surrounding material.

Preventing Future Screw Problems

Once you’ve successfully drilled out the troublesome screw, here are some tips to prevent similar issues in the future:

• Use the Right Screwdriver: Always use a screwdriver that fits the screw head perfectly. Avoid using screwdrivers that are too large or too small.
• Don’t Overtighten: When installing screws, avoid overtightening them. Overtightening can damage the screw head and make it difficult to remove later.
• Use Lubricant: Applying a bit of lubricant to the screw before installation can help prevent rust and make it easier to remove in the future.
• Pre-Drill Holes: For hard woods, pre-drilling holes before installing screws can help prevent the wood from splitting.

The Takeaway: Drilling Out a Screw Can Be Easy

Drilling out a screw might seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and techniques, it’s a relatively straightforward process. By following these steps and using the tips provided, you can tackle even the most stubborn screws and avoid future frustrations.

Popular Questions

Q: What if I don’t have a center punch?
A: While a center punch is ideal, you can use a sharp nail or a small screwdriver to mark the center of the screw head.
Q: What if the screw is too deep to reach with a drill bit?
A: You can use a long drill bit extension to reach deeper screws. Alternatively, you may need to remove some of the surrounding material to expose the screw head.
Q: Can I use a regular drill bit for drilling out screws?
A: While you can, it’s best to use a drill bit specifically designed for drilling out screws. These bits are typically made of stronger materials and have a more pointed tip, which helps prevent them from slipping.
Q: What should I do if the screw breaks off while drilling?
A: If the screw breaks off, you may need to use a screw extractor or a specialized tool to remove the remaining portion. You may also need to consider drilling a larger hole and replacing the screw with a new one.
Q: Can I use a hammer to remove a stuck screw?
A: While it might seem tempting, using a hammer to remove a stuck screw is not recommended. This can damage the screw head and surrounding material, making it even more difficult to remove.