Welcome to our first Tool Tips with Chappy! We know how frustrating it can be when you're trying to work on a project and those pesky screws just won't cooperate. Our tips can assist you in resolving common screw-related problems such as stripping, loss, inadequate fit or simply malfunctioning. Do you have any go-to tool tips that you swear by? Share them with us! We're always eager to learn from our fellow tool and DIY enthusiasts.
Try a Bigger bit
If you're having trouble getting a screw out, don't give up just yet! Make sure you are using the correct size bit for the job at hand. Sometimes the screw won't hold onto the bit you're using because the screw is a hair big or slightly stripped. Going up to the next size bit may do the trick. Give it a shot and see if the next size up can help you get that stubborn screw out.
Tape It Till You Make It
Are you finding it hard to install your ceiling fan, light fixture, or smoke detector because the screws keep falling off your screwdriver? The Tape Method is here to help! To start, you will need a screwdriver, a screw, and masking tape. Begin by cutting off a piece of masking tape and creating a roughly 2" strip. Puncture the strip of tape in the center with your screw, ensuring that the sticky side of the tape is facing you. Push the masking tape up to the head of the screw and place the screw with the masking tape on the screwdriver. Fold the excess masking tape down around the screwdriver and tighten the screw as normal. Once screwed into place, rip tape off to remove.Â
Rubber Band Plan
Who knew a simple rubber band could be so handy? To get started, you will need your screwdriver handle with a screwdriver bit and a rubber band. Place the wide side of the rubber band on the head of the stripped screw. Then while applying pressure to the rubber band, unscrew the fastener as normal.
Pliers, Vice Grips, and Screws, Oh My!
When you have a stubborn screw that just won't budge, grab your long nose pliers or vice grips. Depending on the size of the screw and the situation, either tool will do the trick. Apply your pliers to the head of the offending screw. Turn the screw with the pliers as you would with a screwdriver. The pliers will give you some extra grip and help you get that screw out in no time!
A Soapy Solution
Looking for a solution to help a screw that isn't threading properly? Then run to the bathroom and reach for your soap! For this method, you will need a screw and an unused bar of soap. On the bar of soap, take your screw and rub its threads onto the bar. When you have applied a small amount of soap scrapings to the screw, make another attempt to thread the screw. If it still won't thread, apply more soap as needed.Â
Bag it Up!
Have you ever taken apart an antique gun, sewing machine, computer, or typewriter as a part of your hobby? It's a labor of love, but putting it back together can be a real pain if you lose the screws.The Bag Method is a trick that can save you from the frustration of misplaced screws! For this method you will need a sharpie marker and a few resealable plastic bags. As you carefully dismantle your project, group each set of screws together and place them in their own bag. Be sure to label each bag with the specific purpose of the fasteners - for example, "screws for backing plate." That way, reassembling will be a breeze.