How to Fix a Stripped Screw Hole

Stripped screw holes are common, particularly in particleboard and medium-density fiberboard. These materials are made of small wood particles bonded together with resin and glue. Unfortunately, this combination is prone to breaking, and standard stick-fill fixes do not work on these materials. The stripping problem is particularly bad in heavy doors, which can strip the wood from the frame.

Using Helicoil inserts

One of the most durable techniques for fixing stripped screw holes in metal is using a Helicoil insert. These threaded inserts add new threading to a stripped screw hole and are available for virtually any hole size. The most important part of insert installation is determining the correct size. To determine the correct length and spacing, you must measure the original screw hole.

Helicoil inserts are helically coiled stainless steel wire inserted into a stripped screw hole. The diamond-shaped cross-section helps the helical insert fit into the screw hole and retain a tight seal. These inserts are especially useful in gear housings, drills, printing presses, and other machinery that experiences continuous vibration. These inserts are available in a wide variety of materials and coatings.

Countersinking

Countersinking a stripped screw hole is an important step in woodworking projects. It will help you get a more uniform finish and prevent wood splitting. To countersink a stripped screw hole, you should use two different drill bits. One drill bit will make a predrilled hole, and the other will create a conical countersink hole. Using two drill bits saves time and produces a cleaner countersunk hole. You can also use a stand-alone countersink that works for metal and wood.

The countersink bit is adjustable. It will make a shallow hole so that the screw head sits below the surface. When using a countersink bit, make sure to use the right size. You can find a countersink bit that has different sizes to accommodate a variety of screw heads.

Using wood anchors

Using wood anchors to fix a stripped screw hole is an easy DIY project. Wooden door frames get thousands of uses yearly, and the screws holding them to the door can lose their grip over time. There are many solutions for stripped screw holes in wood, but a screw-it-again wood anchor is the easiest and most secure. You can fix a stripped screw hole in four easy steps in less than a minute.

Screw-It-Again wood anchors are available online and in most hardware stores. When you buy them, make sure that the size matches the size of the screw hole. For example, a 4x30mm screw will require a 6x30mm anchor.

Using drill bit

If a screw has been stripped off, re-screwing it can be a quick solution. The stripped hole is caused by the screw not having enough grip. To fix the stripped screw, you should try using the same type of screw you used. Try to find one with rougher threads so it can grip the stripped hole better. To drive the new screw into the stripped hole, use a hammer to drive it in. Be careful not to apply too much force, or else you could damage the wood around the hole.

Using a drill bit to fix stripped screw holes requires a bit larger than the screw. You should make a hole about 1/8 inch deep in the stripped screw to prevent the driver bit from sliding backwards. A wide rubber band is helpful in this process, as it provides traction to the screwdriver. Once you have inserted the rubber band, place the driver bit on the rubber band and turn the screw counterclockwise.

Using filler strips

Using filler strips to fix a screw hole is an easy way to reshape a screw hole that has become stripped over time. Using lubricant, you can use a dowel slightly smaller than the hole and about a quarter inch shorter in depth. Once the dowel is in place, you can apply glue to the strip and allow it to dry. Afterwards, you can unscrew the stripped screw with a screw extractor or a left-handed drill bit.

Another option to fill a screw hole is to use two-part wood putty. These are excellent for filling holes, as long as the putty is thick enough not to break off when driven into them. Alternatively, you can also use a hardwood dowel or wooden matchstick. Before you use the putty, cut away any loose wood around the hole and draw a cross where the screw will go. Once the putty has cured, you can remove it and continue using the screw.