A Beginner’s Guide to Removing a Screw With No Head

Whether you’re an advanced builder or a frequent DIYer, you’re bound to run into problems that are tricky to navigate now and then.

A common issue that you will run into is stripped screws. As these screws have no head, they can’t be removed with a traditional screwdriver, so we have to get more creative.

But don’t worry! While the process will chip away a few more minutes from your task, there are still plenty of ways to remove a screw with no head. Stick with us to discover how.

What Causes Stripped Screws?

Stripped screws are caused by improper installation methods, such as using the wrong size screwdriver, turning the screw at an angle, or using low-quality tools.

This causes the slots in the screw head to wear out, making it difficult for the screwdriver to grip the screw. Over-tightening the screw or working too fast can also cause damage to the head.

Tips for Removing a Stripped Screw from Different Materials

When removing a stripped screw, the material plays an important part. This affects the type of method you take and the amount of care needed when completing the task.

Metal

• Avoid excessive force: Apply slow, steady pressure to avoid further stripping of the screw, especially bonded or rusted screws.
• Heat application: Apply controlled heat to the screw to expand the surrounding material. This can loosen the screw enough to allow removal.

Plastic

• Heat carefully: Apply only low heat (like a hair dryer) to prevent excessive melting, and avoid heat guns, as they can warp the plastic.
• Avoid forceful methods: Avoid high-torque tools or aggressive methods, as plastic is more prone to cracking.

Wood

• Go easy with drilling: apply light pressure to the surface and use a low-speed drilling setting to avoid damaging the wood fibres.

10 Quick Methods for Removing a Stripped Screw

While stripped screws make the removal process more complicated, all hope isn’t lost! There are plenty of easy ways to remove a screw with no head.

1. Pliers for Extra Grip

Pliers are a straightforward way to grip and twist out exposed screw heads.

• How it works: Pliers allow you to manually turn the screw with increased grip and control.
• Steps: Clamp the pliers around the screw head as tightly as possible, and turn the screw counter-clockwise while applying firm pressure.
• Tools:
  • Locking or needle-nose pliers.

2. Rubber Band Method

This method is great for screws with mild stripping, where you still have a bit of grip left in the screw head.

• How it works: Place a rubber band over the screw head to create extra friction between the screwdriver and the screw.
• Steps: To try to loosen the screw, place a wide rubber band flat across it, press the screwdriver into the rubber band, and turn slowly to loosen.
• Tools:
  • Rubber band
  • A screwdriver that fits the screw head size

3. Screw Extractor Kit

This specialised tool is designed specifically for removing stripped screws. Screw extractor kits are effective for metal and wood surfaces.

• How it works: Reverse-threaded bits “bite” into the stripped screw, allowing you to turn it out.
• Steps: Drill a small pilot hole in the screw, insert the extractor, and turn counterclockwise to loosen the screw.
• Tools:
  • Screw extractor kit
  • Drill with drill bits suitable for metal or wood
  • Safety goggles

4. Drill a New Groove in the Screw Head

This procedure is perfect when you need a fresh slot to turn a completely stripped screwhead. However, use caution when using this technique to prevent harm to nearby materials.

• How it works: Drilling a new slot creates a fresh grip point for a flathead screwdriver.
• Steps: Make a notch with a metal-cutting disc or small saw blade, then insert a flathead screwdriver and turn it out.
• Tools:
  • Drill or rotary tool with a cutting disc
  • Flathead screwdriver
  • Safety goggles

5. Flathead Screwdriver and Hammer Technique

If the screwhead is worn but still has some metal intact, use this method. This creates a new groove in the screw for leverage.

• How it works: You can get traction by tapping a flathead screwdriver into the screwhead to create a new slot.
• Steps: Place the flathead screwdriver on the screw head, tap it lightly with a hammer, and then use it to turn the screw out.
• Tools:

• • Flathead screwdriver
  • Hammer
  • Safety goggles

6. Left-Handed Drill Bit

Left-handed drill bits can help loosen the screw as it drills. These are specifically designed to rotate in the opposite direction of a standard drill bit.

• How it works: The left-handed drill bit digs into the screw head while rotating counterclockwise, loosening the screw in the process.
• Steps: Start with a small pilot hole, then switch to a left-handed drill bit, applying slow and steady pressure until the screw loosens.
• Tools:
  • Left-handed drill bit set
  • Drill
  • Safety goggles

7. Superglue Method

A dab of superglue can provide the necessary grip to turn screws with minimal stripping.

• How it works: The glue bonds the screwdriver tip to the screw, offering additional grip.
• Steps: Apply a small amount of superglue to the screwdriver tip, press it into the screwhead, allow it to set, and turn slowly to remove the screw.
• Tools:
  • Superglue
  • Screwdriver

8. Use a Larger Screwdriver

Switching to a larger screwdriver can provide a better fit and extra grip in the remaining grooves of the stripped screw.

• How it works: A larger driver head can fill in the gaps left by the stripping, giving better control.
• Steps: To remove, select a larger screwdriver, insert it securely into the screwhead, exert constant pressure, and turn slowly.
• Tools:
  • Larger screwdriver (Phillips or flathead, depending on the screw type)

9. Drill Out the Screw

The screw can be completely removed as a last option by drilling it out.

This reduces its diameter until it falls out; however, it can harm the material surrounding the screw, so complete it with caution.

• How it works: The drilling motion breaks down the head until it is released.
• Steps: Select a drill bit that’s slightly smaller than the screw shaft and drill slowly. Pause occasionally to check if the screw is loose.
• Tools:
  • Drill with suitable drill bits
  • Safety goggles
  • Optional: Tweezers to remove any debris

10. Knife or Utility Blade for Leverage

This method allows you to pry gently to create a turning point if you’re working on plastic or softwood.

• How it works: A thin knife or utility blade slides beneath the screwhead, providing leverage to lift it.
• Steps: Carefully insert the knife blade under the screw head, apply gentle upward pressure, and twist to loosen.
• Tools:
  • Utility knife or thin blade

Browse ASP for All of Your Screw Needs

With the right tools and a can-do attitude, removing screws with no heads is made simple.

At ASP, we want to ensure that all of your projects are completed with ease and efficiency. That’s why we offer a large range of screws and fixings, from wood screws to drywall screws, to buy in bulk.