Symptoms
- Screwdriver spins without turning the screw
- Head looks rounded, chewed, or shiny inside the slot
- Driver keeps popping out (cam-out)
- Screw won't back out or drive in further
Likely causes
- CommonWrong size or type of driver usedA too-small or mismatched bit rounds the recess quickly under torque.
- CommonScrew is rusted or painted overCorrosion or paint fills the recess, reducing driver grip before it strips further.
- PossibleCheap or soft-metal screwLow-quality screws deform more easily than the driver bit.
- PossibleDriving at an angle instead of straight inOff-angle pressure cams the bit out and rounds the head.
- Less commonScrew was overtightened originallyExcess torque can deform the recess even before removal is attempted.
What to do
- Clean out the recess with a small pick or compressed air so you can see the remaining shape.
- Try a slightly larger driver of the correct type (Phillips, flathead, Torx) pressed in firmly.
- Put a wide rubber band or steel wool over the head, then press the driver through it for extra grip.
- If that fails, use a screw extractor bit or extractor socket designed for stripped screws.
- As a last resort, drill a small pilot hole into the head and use an extractor, or cut a new slot with a rotary tool for a flathead driver.
- Once out, replace with a new screw rather than reusing a stripped one.
- Apply steady, straight-in pressure and the right bit size next time to avoid repeating the strip.
Tools and parts
- Screwdrivers or driver bits
- Rubber band or steel wool
- Screw extractor set
- Drill
Replacement screwsSearch: “wood screw or machine screw assortment”
When to call a pro
If the screw is holding something structural or load-bearing and won't come out cleanly, a handyman can drill and re-tap it without damaging the surrounding material.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.