How to Remove a Rusted Screw from Wood
Wood gripped it. Rust sealed it. Now it is a commitment.
Wood swells around a rusted screw and holds it. Penetrant helps a little; heat on the screw head and the right bit help more.
Step by Step
- 1
Clean the head
Pick the rust and paint out of the drive slot so the bit seats fully.
- 2
A drop of penetrant
A small amount around the head. Wood soaks it up, so it helps less than on metal.
- 3
Heat the screw
Hold a soldering iron on the screw head for a minute or two, then let it cool.
- 4
Push hard, turn slowly
Use a bit that fits perfectly and lean into it. A manual impact driver works well.
- 5
If it strips
Use a screw extractor, or drill around it with a plug cutter and fill the hole with a wood plug.
A soldering iron on the screw head for a minute is a classic trick: it breaks the rust bond with the wood fibers. Wipe off any penetrant first, and keep heat away from finishes and dry wood dust.
- Penetrant can stain unfinished wood. Use a small amount and wipe up.
Which Penetrant, and Why
Amazon links are affiliate links. Disclosure.
First pickWD-40 Specialist Penetrant
The straw puts a small amount right on the screw without soaking the wood.
Read our review
Common Mistakes
Using a cordless drill at high speed and stripping the head immediately.