Removing a screw that has lost its head from wood can be a common frustration, but there are several effective methods to tackle this problem depending on how much of the screw is exposed and the tools you have available.
Understanding the Challenge
A screw without a head leaves just the shaft embedded in the wood. This removes the primary point of contact for conventional screwdrivers or drills. The key is to find a way to grip the remaining shaft or create a new way to turn it.
Proven Methods for Extraction
Here are some of the most reliable ways to remove a headless screw from wood:
1. Using Vise Grips or Pliers
If even a small portion of the screw shaft is sticking out of the wood, this is often the easiest method.
- Tools Needed: Vise grips (locking pliers) or strong pliers.
- Process:
- Grip the exposed part of the screw shaft firmly with the vise grips or pliers.
- Lock the vise grips in place if using them for maximum hold.
- Slowly turn the tool counter-clockwise to back the screw out.
- Maintain constant pressure and grip as you turn.
2. Screw Extractor Kit
Screw extractor kits are specifically designed for this purpose and are highly effective, especially if the screw is flush or slightly below the surface.
- Tools Needed: Screw extractor kit (includes drill bits and extractors), drill.
- Process:
- Use the drill bit from the kit (typically a left-handed bit) to drill a pilot hole into the center of the broken screw shaft. Follow the kit's instructions for the correct bit size based on the screw gauge.
- Switch to the corresponding screw extractor bit.
- Insert the extractor into the pilot hole.
- Using the drill in reverse (or a tap wrench), apply downward pressure and slowly turn the extractor. The reverse threads on the extractor will bite into the screw and turn it out.
3. Cutting a New Slot
If the top surface of the screw shaft is accessible, you can create a new slot for a flathead screwdriver.
- Tools Needed: Rotary tool (like a Dremel) with a cutting disc, or a hacksaw blade.
- Process:
- Carefully use the cutting disc on a rotary tool to grind a straight slot across the top of the screw shaft. Ensure the slot is deep enough to get good purchase with a flathead screwdriver.
- Alternatively, you can use a fine-toothed hacksaw blade to manually cut a slot, though this is harder on smaller screws.
- Once the slot is cut, use a flathead screwdriver that fits snugly into the slot and turn the screw counter-clockwise to remove it.
4. The "Modern Approach" - Using a Cordless Drill Chuck
As referenced, sometimes you can use the chuck of a cordless drill to grip the exposed shaft.
- Tools Needed: Cordless drill.
- Process:
- According to the method described, you can use your cordless drill directly.
- Simply place it over the screw. This implies opening the drill's chuck wide enough to fit around the screw shaft.
- Tighten it down (ratcheting) onto the shaft. This means closing the chuck firmly around the screw shaft itself.
- Then put it in reverse. With the chuck gripping the shaft, running the drill in reverse will hopefully turn the screw out of the wood.
Note: This method is most effective if there is enough of the screw shaft protruding and the chuck can get a secure, non-slipping grip.
5. Drilling Out the Screw
If all other methods fail and the screw is stubborn or flush, you may need to drill it out completely, though this will require filling the hole afterward.
- Tools Needed: Drill, drill bits (slightly larger than the screw's shank diameter), hammer, punch.
- Process:
- Use a punch to mark the exact center of the broken screw shaft.
- Select a drill bit slightly larger than the shank (the part without threads) of the screw.
- Carefully drill down into the center of the screw. Go slow and keep the drill straight. The goal is to drill away the screw material.
- Once the screw is drilled out, you will have a hole that needs to be plugged or filled before a new screw can be inserted in the same spot.
Choosing the Right Method
The best approach depends on the specific situation:
| Situation | Recommended Method(s) |
|---|---|
| Screw shaft is exposed | Vise Grips/Pliers, Cordless Drill Chuck |
| Screw is flush/slightly sunk | Screw Extractor Kit, Cutting a New Slot |
| Stubborn or deeply broken | Screw Extractor Kit, Drilling Out |
Always wear safety glasses when working with tools, especially when drilling or cutting. Patience and a steady hand are key to successfully removing a headless screw.
