How To Properly Fix A Stripped Screw Hole

Knowing how to fix a stripped screw hole is a handy lifehack most DIYers didn’t even know was possible. There are many methods to do it. Here’s how you can do it yourself!

6 Super Simple Steps in Fixing Cuts & Scratches to a | 6 Super Easy Steps in Fixing Cuts and Scratches

How to Fix a Stripped Screw Hole | 5 Quick and Easy Methods You Can Follow

1. How to Fix a Stripped Screw Hole Using a Larger Screw

If your screw becomes too small for a stripped screw hole, use a bigger screw. Look for something that is wide enough to fit the hole but not too big that you’ll have to drill a bigger cavity.

Do it yourself:

1. Look for a bigger screw. Replace the damaged screw with a new one.
2. The threads of the new screw should be checked. You should have the exact same threads as the one that was removed or something even more rough. Rougher screws have less threads per inch or TPI. This ensures that your new screw will be more secure in your hole.
3. Place the screw in the hole. Once you have your new screw in place, you can drive it into the hole. You should not drive the screw too hard as it could split the wood and cause more problems than before.

Note: Keep in mind that when it comes to this method, the size of the screws makes all the difference. When you place the screw into the hole, make sure it doesn’t split the wood.

2. How to Fix a Stripped Screw Hole Using Matchsticks or Toothpicks

Toothpicks and matchsticks have uses for your home improvement projects as well. These can be used as wood filler to fit screws into holes that aren’t quite right.

Do it yourself:

1. Place the matchsticks or toothpicks into the hole. Place matchsticks or toothpicks in the screw hole. You can also apply wood glue to your screw hole to give it a stronger bite.
2. The screw should be inserted into the hole. It should now be ready for your old screw. Just drive your screw into the hole again and watch it chew on the new wood.

Note: The matchsticks and toothpicks would make the hole smaller as it fills in the missing wood and gives your screw something to hold onto.

3. How to Fix a Stripped Screw Hole Using Plastic Anchors

If there are no other options, plastic anchors are one of the best alternatives. They can securely house screws. However, drilling may be necessary.

Do it yourself:

1. Drill the strip coils out. You may need to drill holes if the plastic screws are too large for the anchors. You should choose a drill bits that is the same size as the plastic anchor.
2. Place the plastic anchors. Screw repair kits often have the plastic anchors in them. You have two options: glue the anchors in your holes, or use a hammer to push them down.
3. Place the hinge. Place the hinge in place and then start to insert the screws into the drilled holes. These anchors will provide a firm grip for the threads.

Note: Although the plastic anchors may work for lightweight applications, they might be more expensive than the majority of other fixes and might not always be the best option in most situations.

RELATED: How To Repair Leaky Single And Double Handle Faucet Cartridges

4. How to Fix a Stripped Screw Hole Using Strips of Wood

When using wood strips, it’s best to use strips from the original wood to achieve consistency. A different kind of wood could cause more damage to your hole. Additionally, it might not have a grip that’s strong enough to hold your screw.

Do it yourself:

1. Get strips from wood by cutting some small strips from the same type of lumber. These strips can then be dipped in wood glue.
2. You can then fill the hole with the pieces of wood that you’ve cut by inserting them into the drilled hole. You can apply wood glue to your wood strips. Leave it to dry for a few hours.
3. Replace the screw. You can trim any wood strips that are not needed to be in the hole. Next, drill the hole with a small bit and then drive the screw back into it.

5. How to Fix a Stripped Screw Hole Using Auto Body Filler

When all else fails, repair a stripped screw hole with body filler commonly used for automotive. Make a bigger hole, then fill it with Bondo body glue before you screw the screw back into place.

Do it yourself:

1. Make the hole larger. You can start by making more space by drilling the hole with a 1/2 inch bit.
2. Prepare the auto body filler. This mixture can be purchased in a tub or a pack at home improvement stores and auto supply shops. Mix the filler in the hole with the hardener. Usually, the package comes as a single unit.
3. Place the filler in the hole. Once the hardener as well as the auto body filler are thoroughly mixed, pour the mixture into your screw hole.
4. Apply some lubricant. Apply lubricant to your screw. This will be used to release the screw when it is removed.
5. Insert the screw into the hole. Then, place the screw in the empty hole. It will harden in three to four hours.
6. After removing the bolt, clean the excess filler from the bolt. You should wait until the filler has fully dried before you try to put the screw back into your stripped hole.

If knowing how to fix a stripped screw hole isn’t enough, you might want to drill a new one. Check out this tutorial on how to drill into concrete by GardenFork:

It’s pretty common for your screws to lose their grip over time. Knowing how to fix a stripped screw hole is a valuable asset in any DIYer’s arsenal. Now that you’ve learned how to do it yourself, you can start looking for those loose screws, take them out, and make those holes usable again.

Are you able to repair a screw hole that isn’t working? We’d love to hear your suggestions in the comments below.

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