How to Remove a Screw with No Head: A Comprehensive Guide

Dealing with a screw that has lost its head can be incredibly frustrating. Whether it’s stripped, broken, or simply sheared off, a headless screw can halt your project and leave you feeling stuck. This comprehensive guide provides practical methods and techniques to effectively remove screw with no head, ensuring you can complete your task without causing further damage. We’ll cover everything from simple solutions to more advanced methods, equipping you with the knowledge to tackle this common DIY problem.

Understanding the Problem: Why Screws Lose Their Heads

Before diving into the solutions, it’s important to understand why screws lose their heads in the first place. Several factors can contribute to this issue:

• Over-tightening: Applying excessive force when driving a screw can shear off the head.
• Corrosion: Rust and corrosion can weaken the screw, making it more susceptible to breaking.
• Stripped Heads: Repeated use or using the wrong screwdriver can strip the head, making it impossible to grip and eventually leading to breakage.
• Material Fatigue: Over time, the metal of the screw can weaken, leading to failure under stress.
• Poor Quality Screws: Inferior screws are more likely to break or strip.

Knowing the cause can help you prevent similar issues in the future.

Essential Tools for Removing Headless Screws

Having the right tools is crucial for successfully removing a screw with no head. Here’s a list of essential tools you might need:

• Screw Extractor Kit: These kits contain specialized drill bits and extractors designed to grip and remove damaged screws.
• Left-Handed Drill Bits: These bits can sometimes catch on the screw and back it out as you drill.
• Pliers (Needle-Nose and Locking): Useful for gripping and turning small screw remnants.
• Screwdrivers (Various Sizes and Types): Ensure you have a variety of screwdrivers to try different methods.
• Drill: A power drill is essential for using screw extractors and left-handed drill bits.
• Hammer: For gently tapping tools into place.
• Center Punch: To create a starting point for drilling.
• Penetrating Oil: To loosen corroded screws.
• Heat Gun or Soldering Iron: To apply heat and loosen the screw.

Method 1: Using a Screw Extractor Kit

A screw extractor kit is often the most reliable method for removing a screw with no head. Here’s how to use one:

1. Prepare the Screw: Use a center punch to create a small indentation in the center of the broken screw. This will help guide the drill bit.
2. Drill a Pilot Hole: Select the appropriate drill bit from the kit (usually indicated by the extractor size). Drill a pilot hole into the screw, following the instructions provided with your kit.
3. Insert the Extractor: Place the screw extractor into the pilot hole.
4. Turn Counterclockwise: Using a tap handle or wrench, slowly turn the extractor counterclockwise. Apply steady pressure. The extractor’s threads will grip the screw and begin to turn it out.
5. Remove the Screw: Continue turning until the screw is completely removed.

Important Tip: Use slow, steady pressure to avoid breaking the extractor or further damaging the surrounding material.

Method 2: Employing Left-Handed Drill Bits

Left-handed drill bits can be a simpler alternative to screw extractors. As you drill, the bit may catch and back out the screw. Here’s the process:

1. Center Punch: Create a starting point with a center punch.
2. Select a Left-Handed Drill Bit: Choose a bit slightly smaller than the screw’s diameter.
3. Drill Slowly: Apply steady pressure and drill slowly in reverse (counterclockwise).
4. Monitor for Movement: Watch carefully to see if the screw begins to back out.
5. Remove the Screw: If the screw starts to turn, continue drilling until it’s completely removed.

Note: This method works best on screws that aren’t tightly seized.

Method 3: Utilizing Pliers for Small Screw Remnants

If a small portion of the screw is still protruding, pliers can be used to grip and turn it. This method is suitable for screws that haven’t broken off flush with the surface.

1. Grip the Screw: Use needle-nose or locking pliers to firmly grip the exposed portion of the screw.
2. Turn Counterclockwise: Slowly turn the pliers counterclockwise.
3. Apply Penetrating Oil: If the screw is resistant, apply penetrating oil to help loosen it.
4. Continue Turning: Keep turning until the screw is removed.

Caution: Avoid applying excessive force, as this could further damage the screw or the surrounding material.

Method 4: Creating a New Slot with a Rotary Tool

If the screw head is completely gone but there’s enough of the screw body exposed, you can create a new slot for a flathead screwdriver using a rotary tool (like a Dremel).

1. Prepare the Area: Clean the area around the screw.
2. Create a Slot: Using a cutting wheel attachment on your rotary tool, carefully grind a slot into the top of the screw. Make the slot deep enough to accommodate a flathead screwdriver.
3. Use a Screwdriver: Insert a flathead screwdriver into the newly created slot.
4. Turn Counterclockwise: Apply pressure and turn the screwdriver counterclockwise to remove the screw.

Safety First: Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris.

Method 5: Applying Heat to Loosen the Screw

Heat can help loosen corroded or seized screws. Use a heat gun or soldering iron to apply heat to the screw. The heat will cause the metal to expand, breaking the bond between the screw and the surrounding material.

1. Apply Heat: Direct the heat gun or soldering iron onto the screw for a few minutes.
2. Let it Cool Slightly: Allow the screw to cool slightly before attempting to remove it.
3. Use Pliers or Extractor: Use pliers or a screw extractor to remove the screw.

Warning: Be careful when using heat, as it can damage surrounding materials. Avoid overheating.

Method 6: Using a Hammer and Screwdriver (For Stubborn Screws)

This method is a bit more forceful, but it can be effective for stubborn screws. It involves using a hammer to tap a screwdriver into the remaining portion of the screw, creating a better grip.

1. Position the Screwdriver: Place the tip of a flathead screwdriver on the broken screw.
2. Tap with a Hammer: Gently tap the end of the screwdriver with a hammer, creating a slight indentation.
3. Turn Counterclockwise: Apply pressure and turn the screwdriver counterclockwise to remove the screw.

Be Careful: This method can easily damage surrounding materials, so use it with caution.

Preventing Future Screw Head Breakage

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to prevent screws from losing their heads in the future:

• Use the Right Screwdriver: Always use the correct size and type of screwdriver for the screw.
• Apply Even Pressure: Apply steady, even pressure when driving screws.
• Avoid Over-tightening: Don’t over-tighten screws. Stop when the screw is snug.
• Use Lubricant: Apply a small amount of lubricant to the screw threads before driving it into hard materials.
• Pre-drill Pilot Holes: When working with hardwoods or dense materials, pre-drill pilot holes to prevent the screw from binding.
• Use High-Quality Screws: Invest in high-quality screws made from durable materials.

When to Call a Professional

While these methods can be effective, there are times when it’s best to call a professional. If you’ve tried multiple methods and are still unable to remove screw with no head, or if you risk damaging valuable materials, it’s wise to seek help from a qualified technician. They have the tools and expertise to handle even the most challenging situations.

Conclusion

Removing a screw with no head can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and techniques, it’s often manageable. By understanding the causes of screw head breakage and employing the methods outlined in this guide, you can effectively remove screw with no head and prevent future issues. Remember to prioritize safety and use caution to avoid damaging surrounding materials. Whether you choose a screw extractor kit, left-handed drill bits, or another method, patience and persistence are key to success. Now, go forth and conquer those headless screws!

Hopefully, this guide has given you the knowledge and confidence to remove screw with no head effectively. Remember to always prioritize safety and choose the method that best suits your specific situation. Good luck!

Knowing how to remove screw with no head is a valuable skill for any DIY enthusiast or professional. By following these tips and techniques, you can save time, money, and frustration. So, the next time you encounter a broken screw, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the challenge.

[See also: Stripped Screw Removal Guide]
[See also: Best Screw Extractor Kits]
[See also: Preventing Screw Breakage]