How to Unscrew Worn Down Screws

Sometimes the grooves on the head of a screw become worn, or stripped, either from using the wrong size screwdriver to screw them in or because they're exposed to wear and tear. The grooves are worn down or become larger or smaller than normal. These stripped screws can be frustrating to remove. But, with the right tools, removing them doesn't have to be a source of aggravation and just requires a little more time and effort than in removing a regular screw.

Drill
Screw extractor
Gripping gel
Hammer
Screwdriver
Vice grips

Instructions

- 1
  Pinch the vice grips down on the screw and pull up, if enough of the screw is above the surface to grab.
- 2
  Put a screwdriver on the head of the screw. Hit the screwdriver with a hammer to drive it into the screw, and firmly twist the screw in the opposite direction of installation.
- 3
  Put a drop of gripping gel on the screw. Put the screwdriver end to the head of the screwdriver and try to twist it out.
- 4
  Use the drill to make a small hole in the screw head.
- 5
  Put a screw extractor into the hole and turn counterclockwise. Pull the screw extractor straight up to remove the screw.

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