Stripped door hinge screws can be a frustrating problem for homeowners. They can make it difficult or impossible to remove the screws and replace the hinge, which can lead to a lot of frustration. Fortunately, there are several methods to fix stripped screws from door hinges, and in this post, we will outline them in detail.
Try a Different Screwdriver
The first step to fixing stripped screws is to try a different screwdriver. The screwdriver you are using may be too small or too large, which can cause the screw to strip. Make sure you’re using a screwdriver that is the correct size and fits snugly in the screw head.
Use a Screw Extractor
A screw extractor can be a useful tool if the screw is stripped and you are unable to remove it. Screw extractors are made to take out stripped or stuck screws. Simply drill a hole through the stripped screw's center, place a screw extractor inside the hole, and turn the extractor counterclockwise to remove the screw.
Use Pliers
The screw head can be removed with pliers if it is slightly protruding. Using pliers, grasp the screw's head and turn it in the opposite direction to remove it.
Use a Hammer and Screwdriver
If the screw is only slightly stripped, you can remove it with a hammer and screwdriver. To get a better grip, insert the screwdriver into the screw head and lightly tap it with a hammer. Then rotate the screwdriver counterclockwise.
Use a Rubber Band
A rubber band can also be used to fix stripped screws from door hinges. Simply place the rubber band over the screw head; then insert the screwdriver and turn it counterclockwise. The rubber band will provide extra grip, which can help remove the stripped screw.
Use a Power Drill
If the stripped screw is in a hard-to-reach area or is particularly stubborn, a power drill can be a helpful tool. Attach a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the screw head, then drill into the screw until it is loose enough to remove.
Use a Tap and Die Set
A tap and die set can be used to re-thread the hole in the event that the screw is completely stripped and unable to be removed. In order to do this, the stripped hole must first be drilled out before new screw threads can be made using a tap.
Use Wood Filler
Wood filler can be applied to a wooden door frame to repair a stripped screw. Fill the hole left by the stripping with wood filler, then let it completely dry. After it has dried, you can drill a fresh hole and add a new screw.
Use Vinegar or WD-40
Some people use this homemade, DIY method for fixing stripped screws. This involves using vinegar or WD-40 to loosen rusted stripped screws. To remove the rust from the screw, lightly spray it with vinegar or WD-40 and let it sit for a few minutes. The screw can then be removed by turning it counterclockwise with a screwdriver or pair of pliers.
Use Epoxy
Epoxy can be used to repair a stripped screw in a metal door frame or hinge. Apply the epoxy to the stripped hole after mixing it as directed by the manufacturer. Place a fresh screw into the epoxy and allow it to fully dry. The screw can be taken out and reinserted as necessary once it has dried.
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Stripped screws from door hinges aren’t impossible to fix. By using a different screwdriver, screw extractor, pliers, hammer and screwdriver, rubber band, power drill, tap and die set, or wood filler, you can remove stripped screws and replace door hinges as needed.