What is what to do when screw hole is stripped?

When a screw hole is stripped, the screw can no longer grip the material and will spin freely without tightening. Here's what you can do:

• Toothpicks or Wood Glue and Shims: This is a common and effective method for wood. Stuff the hole with small pieces of toothpick or thin wood shims coated in wood glue. Let the glue dry completely, then carefully re-drill a pilot hole and re-insert the screw. Learn more about <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Toothpicks%20Method">Toothpicks Method</a>.

• Larger Screws: If possible, use a screw with a slightly larger diameter and/or length. This allows the new screw to bite into fresh material. Check the <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Larger%20Screws">Larger Screws</a> page for details.

• Screw Hole Repair Kits/Thread Inserts: These kits contain specialized plugs or inserts that fill the stripped hole and provide a new, solid thread for the screw to grip. Look up <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Screw%20Hole%20Repair%20Kits">Screw Hole Repair Kits</a> for more information.

• Wood Filler/Epoxy: Fill the stripped hole with wood filler or epoxy. Once dry, drill a pilot hole and re-insert the screw. It might be a good idea to visit the <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Wood%20Filler">Wood Filler</a> page for more info.

• Steel Wool: For softer materials, try stuffing the hole with fine steel wool before inserting the screw. The steel wool can provide some grip. Check the use cases from <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Steel%20Wool">Steel Wool</a> page.

• Moving the Screw: If feasible, move the screw to a slightly different location. This requires drilling a new pilot hole.