Wed, 06 May 2026 01:40:25 +0000

What Professionals Never Tell You: Retracting a Damaged Screw Like a Pro When working with mechanics, construction, or repair trades, one common but often misunderstood challenge is dealing with a damaged screw—especially when it’s stripped, broken, or lodged in timber or metal. Too many DIY enthusiasts rush through the fix without proper technique, risking further damage or structural weakness. Professionals know that retracting a damaged screw properly is a nuanced skill that saves time, protects materials, and ensures durability. Here’s what experts never tell you—and how to master retracting a damaged screw like a true pro. ### 1. Don’t Force It—Stop Immediately For most novices, pulling a stripped or damaged screw straight out looks efficient. But professionals emphasize: don’t force it. Applying excessive torque risks outright breakage, damaging the screw hole, or even stripping the surrounding material. Instead, take a steady, controlled approach that respects the integrity of the fastener and the structure.