Trying to install a screw in a stripped hole can be frustrating. As you turn it clockwise, the screw will simply spin. It won’t grip the inner walls of the hole, nor will it hold the objects with which it’s used together. Instead, the screw will be functionally useless. If this sounds familiar, you should consider the following solutions to install a screw in a stripped hole.
Use a Larger Screw
Switching to a larger screw may work. The screw just needs to be slightly larger than the hole. If your current screw spins, it’s too small. A larger screw will grip the inner walls of the hole while providing an effective fastening mechanism. Of course, using a larger screw may not be an option. Fortunately, there are other solutions that may work with your current screw.
Use Wood Filler
You can often install screws in stripped holes using wood filler. Wood filler is a paste-like product that’s designed to mimic the properties of real wood. After filling the hole with wood filler, wait for it to dry. Once dry, you can then drill a new pilot hole, followed by installing the screw. The screw should grip the dried wood filler — just like it would with real wood. Just remember to read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using wood filler.
Use Toothpicks or Wood Skewers
Another idea is to fill the stripped hole with toothpicks or wood skewers. This is a quick, low-cost solution that works well. Start by applying a small amount of wood glue or epoxy to several toothpicks or wood skewers. Next, insert them into the hole as tightly as possible. You can then trim the protruding toothpicks or wood skewers so that they are flush with the surface of the hole. Once the glue or epoxy has dried, reinsert the screw.
Use a Threaded Insert
When all else fails, you can use a threaded insert. Threaded inserts are exactly what they sound like: insertable devices with threading. They consist of a metal sleeve with interior threading. If you’re struggling to install a screw in a stripped hole, you can place a threaded insert inside of the hole. You can then drive the screw into the threaded insert. Since the threaded insert features interior threading, it will support the screw.
In Conclusion
There are several things you can do to install a screw in a stripped hole, some of which include switching to a larger screw, using wood filler, using toothpicks or wood skewers, or using a threaded insert.