How to take out a screw that is broken

1. Using a Screw Extractor Kit

A screw extractor kit is specifically designed to remove broken screws. It contains specialized bits that grip the broken screw and allow you to twist it out.

Steps:

1. Drill a small hole in the center of the broken screw using a drill bit that's smaller than the screw's diameter.
2. Insert the extractor bit into the hole you've drilled. Screw extractors usually have a reverse thread (left-handed threads), so turning them counterclockwise will cause them to grip the broken screw.
3. Turn the extractor counterclockwise with a wrench or a drill. This should pull the screw out.

Tip: Apply a bit of penetrating oil (like WD-40) around the screw before starting to help loosen any rust or corrosion.

2. Using Pliers (If There's a Stub Left)

If there’s any part of the screw protruding from the surface, you might be able to grip it with pliers and twist it out manually.

Steps:

1. Grip the protruding screw with locking pliers (like Vise-Grips) or needle-nose pliers.
2. Turn counterclockwise to remove the screw. If it’s stuck, you can try rocking the pliers back and forth gently to loosen it.

3. Drilling the Screw Out

If there’s no stub left to grab, you might need to drill out the screw.

Steps:

1. Select the right drill bit: Choose a bit that's slightly smaller than the diameter of the screw shaft.
2. Drill into the center of the screw: Start with a small pilot hole and gradually work your way up to a larger drill bit until the screw begins to come out.
3. Use a screw extractor or small screwdriver to remove the remnants of the screw.

4. Using a Flathead Screwdriver

If the screw is only slightly damaged, you may be able to use a flathead screwdriver to turn it out.

Steps:

1. Insert the flathead screwdriver into the remaining slot or head of the broken screw.
2. Turn counterclockwise. Applying downward pressure while turning can help the screwdriver "bite" into the screw and get a grip.

5. Using a Rubber Band for Grip

If the screw head is stripped but still has some remnants, you can use a rubber band to increase friction and grip.

Steps:

1. Place a rubber band over the screw head.
2. Press a flathead screwdriver or other tool into the rubber band, and try turning counterclockwise.
3. The rubber band should provide enough friction to help you turn the screw out.

6. Heat the Screw

If the screw is stuck due to rust or corrosion, applying heat can help loosen it. You can use a heat gun, a soldering iron, or even a propane torch for this method.

Steps:

1. Heat the screw carefully for a few minutes. Be cautious not to damage surrounding materials.
2. Try to unscrew it after applying heat. The expansion of the metal may make it easier to turn.

7. Using Left-Handed Drill Bits

Left-handed drill bits rotate counterclockwise, which can sometimes unscrew a broken screw while you're drilling into it.

Steps:

1. Drill into the center of the broken screw with a left-handed drill bit.
2. The bit's counterclockwise rotation may cause the screw to start coming out as you drill.

8. Tapping It Out (For Stubborn Screws)

For particularly stubborn screws, you can tap the edge of the screw with a hammer and small punch to break it loose.

Steps:

1. Place a center punch or small punch tool on the edge of the screw.
2. Tap gently with a hammer to break the seal around the screw and make it easier to remove.

9. Using a Dremel Tool (If the Screw Is Deeply Embedded)

If the screw is deep and the head is stripped or broken off completely, a Dremel tool with a cutting disk can create a new slot for a flathead screwdriver.

Steps:

1. Use a Dremel to cut a new groove or slot across the broken screw.
2. Use a flathead screwdriver to remove the screw by turning it counterclockwise.

10. Penetrating Oil

If the screw is rusted or stuck due to corrosion, applying penetrating oil can help loosen it. Products like WD-40, Liquid Wrench, or PB Blaster are specifically designed to break the bond of rusted or stuck parts.

Steps:

1. Spray the penetrating oil around the base of the screw.
2. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the oil to seep into the threads.
3. Try removing the screw again using one of the methods above.

Final Tips:

• If the screw is particularly deep or damaged, consider drilling it out completely and re-tapping the hole for a new screw.
• For stuck screws that are not easily removable, you may need to consult a professional, especially in delicate or high-value situations.

With patience and the right tools, you should be able to remove a broken screw effectively!