Some renovative house tasks aren’t worth calling an expert. You can tackle them by yourself. You have taken your screwdrivers, drills, and all other required things to get started. But all of a sudden, one of the screws has got mangled. Even it was an easy task, this annoying thing happened accidentally and has filled the task full of complications. Do you know how to remove a stripped hex screw? Don’t worry; there is still away. I am here to take all your complications and show you some useful techniques for taking out a stripped screw. But before we start, make sure to stick with the article till the end.

This might have happened while you were working at your house. But have you imagined what would happen if your boss has asked to fix something and you have mangled the screw head? That’s the worst thing any man can ever face. How the heck on the earth I did this? This will be the only thing spinning inside of your head, isn’t it? Instead of thinking and wasting time by thinking that “I am screwed,” I have got a better option for you. Suppose you read through this article and find the easiest way to take out your stripped screw with ease. It will be great, isn’t it? So, without wasting any time, let’s get started.

4 Ways to Prevent Stripping of a Screw Head

Prevention is always better than cure” we all know that, right? So, before I start showing you how to remove a stripped hex screw, I would like to share some preventive measures that will help you to avoid this type of annoying situation. If you had followed these steps, you might not have faced the problem. So, it’s crucial for you to learn these steps. So, let’s get started.

1. Using the Correct Screw Driver

Well, this one is the most common reason for which we usually end up with a stripped screw head. In most cases, we use any normal screwdriver without noticing their head size and driver styles. But that’s really not an ideal thing. Even though some of the screwdrivers have a similar look, they are available in different styles. They may be tempting and has close design or shape to use in Phillips or Torx screws, but that’s really not going to happen. Make sure not to fall victim to it. If you forcefully use these screwdrivers on any screws by putting the maximum pressure, you may end up stripping the screw head. So, it is always recommended to use the correct screwdriver no matters what happens. Even if they cost you a couple of bucks more, you won’t have to face the complications.

2. Make Sure to Seat the Driver Fully Before Starting to Drive the Screw

This is another reason that can cause a stripped screw head. When we are in a hurry or trying to fix anything urgently, we usually forget to put the screwdriver properly. This situation also takes place when the operator is in a bad position. Due to this, the screwdriver seats partially on the screw head for which the driver gets enough space to spin freely. When you continue to spin at this position, the screw’s head starts to grind, and lastly, it ends up by a stripped screw. So, don’t hurry when you are detaching anything through screws. This type of issue is more seen when you are singing a powered screwdriver during the process. So, if you are using one of them, make sure to inspect the head properly and let the driver seat on the screw appropriately.

3. Using the Right Amount of Power

Typically, when the screwdriver does not sit on the screw heads properly, the stripped situation occurs. But if you couple this with an excessive amount of strength, the screw head will surely get damaged. That’s what we usually do. By the time you will realize what just happened, a catastrophic situation will take place. In order to prevent this type of issue, you have to either slow down or use only the required force. Even the screw is a bit hard to move, you should maintain use lubricants that will help the screw to spin. Otherwise, you will be stuck with a stripped screw.

4. Do Not Force It

As I have mentioned earlier, if your fastener or screw has got stuck, do not try to take it out forcefully. Due to some environmental elements, screws can usually get stuck. Screws can catch rusts, get pinched by different materials. Some screws are even found to be secured with some additional locker glue. If you, the screw of your project or the equipment, have got the same thing, then you are spending more without any reason. Instead of taking the screw out, you can damage them for no reason. No matters how much force you apply, it may not come out without a stripped head.

In this case, you should use some oil or apply some heat; it will then start moving easily. You won’t have to apply much pressure on it.

Well, these are the four useful measurements that can be used for taking out the screws without damaging them. You should follow these precautions before rushing for taking out the screw. Okay, now let’s dive into what you have been searching for.

How to Remove a Stripped Hex Screw

How to Remove a Stripped Hex Screw 2

At last, we are here. The most desired thing. Sorry, I have made you wait for this, but the above information is also essential. However, I have gathered some simple and easy steps to take out a stripped screw head. These are the following:

1. Using a Rubber Band

This step is very much useful when the size of the screw is small, or it has been stripped mildly. First of all, and as I have suggested above, you have to choose the correct screwdriver. So, pay proper attention to your screw head and select the right screwdriver that accurately suits the style of the fastener or screw. Now take a rubber band and place it on the top of your screw. Once you do that, press the screwdriver firmly and start driving the screwdriver slowly. The rubber band will fill the gaps and provide the screwdriver with a proper grip. As a result, you will be able to remove the screw easily. If you are unable to find a rubber band, you can also make the job done with duct tape or any thin cardboard. They can also be used for the same purpose.

2. Using the Pilers

If the screw’s head is exposed, it can be a bit more challenging. In this case, if you put more pressure on the screw, you may break the fastener or damage it entirely. In this case, it will be better if you stop using the screwdriver and grab a locking, pliers. Hold the screw firmly with the pair of pliers and start spinning the head gently. The screw may bend a little bit, but it will still remain usable.

3. Turn It into a Different Drive Style

Let me clear one thing; this process will cause a little more abuse to the screw head. So, if you don’t have any other way, you can follow this step.  First of all, find out a screwdriver that is close to the newly made screw head design. It will still work if it is a bit larger once you find the place the screwdriver on the screws head and then use a hammer to tap it. The driver head will then sit on the screw head, and you will be able to turn the stuck screw then. It may cause a slight dent to the fastener, but you can take the screw out of the hole.

4. Make It a Flat Head

Well, this technique is pretty straightforward, and it is guaranteed to work. For this, you have to use a Dremel, saw, or a file to cut. Use them to cut a small groove into the head of the screw. Once you complete the process and make it deep enough, you can simply remove the screw by using any flat head screwdriver. Remember, this technique will damage the screw or fastener greatly. In fact, there is also a greater chance that the screw can break down.

Conclusion

Hopefully, you have understood the above process and will be able to take out your stripped screws easily. If you are still confused and still finding the answer to the question of how to remove a stripped hex screw, feel free to use the comment section. I am here to clear all your questions and hesitations.