removing old screws - any ideas

[30boat]

Abrasive paste on screwdriver

You should use some abrasive paste (valve lapping compound)on the screwdriver tip.This will increase grip greatly and also prevent sliping.An impact screwdriver used with abrasive paste is very effective.If you don't have one then a good quality screwdriver with a nice square tip and an adjustable spanner to turn it will most likely do the job.Put your weight on it and turn slowly back and forth.Don't forget the paste.If you can't get some, use tooth paste wich at a pinch will do.
Of course you should make sure we're dealing with normal not machine screws .

 

[aidancoughlan]

I had the same problem removing screws from my windows last winter... an impact driver already mentioned (used sparingly) helped on some - I think as much because of the hard heads (strong than the 2 stanley screwdrivers I broke the heads off) as the impact driving ability.

[ QUOTE ]
My screwdrivers are chewing up the heads

[/ QUOTE ]
On the odd one where the threads were chewed up beyond use, I cut a new straight slot with a dremel drill with a small circular blade, and got them out with a strong flat head screwdriver.

I also used lots of WD40 (theres probably better alternatives) on the stubborn ones before trying too hard with other means - this loosened some of them overnight.

 

[LittleShip]

I now class myself as an expert at screw removal!

Impact screwdriver and or brace and bit, it's surprising how difficult some screws into wood can be to remove. The brace and bit method is good once you have smacked it with an impact.

Tom

 

[Anonymous]

I have a manual impact driver (CK) and I find that I seldom need to actually hit is as the extra purchase and good bits that come with it are all that's needed. How do electric impact drivers differ from manual ones? Given that the main problem with a manual driver is the risk of damaging the job, is that risk reduced with an electric?

 

[rich]

Short answer, Yes, I have just done 100s of deck screws,