How to Remove Decking With Stripped Screws

2 Using a Power Drill

As previously mentioned, the usual methods of backing out stripped screws won’t work, there are still a few tricks and tips that you can use with a power drill. One trick is with the use of rubber.

For this method, you’ll need a small rubber piece that can fully cover the screw heads. A rubber band can do the trick. You can start by placing the rubber band on top of the screw head. It shouldn’t be too thin to get damaged by the drill bit nor too thick that you can’t place the drill bit into the screw heads. Then, with the right drill bit, slowly drill the screw head with the rubber in reverse. Once loosened, you can continue to back the screws out using this method or using pliers.

Another trick is by using a lockable drill chuck. However, as with pliers and grips, it only works on exposed screw heads. You can put the drill chuck over the screw and tighten it until it grips the screw. Finally, set the drill in reverse to back out the damaged screw.

3 Using a Screw Extractor Set

Another quick and effortless method of removing decking with stripped screws is by using a screw extractor. There are several varieties of screw extractor kits on the market. And each one may work differently than others.

One of the most popular screw extractor sets you can buy has two different ends. One end features a cutter side that drills a hole into the screw head. The other one is a reverse-threaded drill bit that bites on the drilled hole that the other end makes.

To use this type of screw extractor set, you will need to first choose the correct size of the drill bit. Fortunately, as a complete set, they come in different sizes. Next, using the cutter side, drill a hole into the screw head, do this slowly. Then, with the threaded size, drive the screw in reverse agi doing so slowly, backing it out in the process.

As mentioned, there are several varieties of screw extractor sets available. You only have to find the right one that suits you best. You can use forums, review sites, and customer feedback when buying a set of these kits.

4 Using A Pry Tool

If all the other methods fail, there are a few more things that you can try. However, they most likely will damage the decking boards. Because of this, only try these as a last resort. To pry the decking boards, you can use a hammer or other prying tool. Using the claw side, slowly lift the boards upward. A slow rocking motion can help minimise damage.

In some instances, prying the decking boards may leave the screws into the joists. If so, you can use pliers to unscrew them manually. If that doesn’t work, you can also cut the screws using a reciprocating saw.