If you ever find yourself in the frustrating situation of having a stuck shower handle screw, don’t despair. You can easily remove it and get back to enjoying your warm morning showers with just a few simple steps.
In this post, we’ll walk you through each step of safely and effectively about how to remove stuck shower handle screw so that you can happily take luxurious hot showers again! So let’s get started – read on for all the details!
Four Methods on How to Remove Stuck Shower Handle Screw
Mehod 1: The Basic Technique:
This is a simple yet effective technique. Use a flathead screwdriver to pry out the head of the stuck screw. Once the head has been freed, you can grip it with pliers and twist it.
Method 2: Making Use of Lubricants:
If the first method doesn’t work, use a lubricant such as WD-40 or penetrating oil to help free the screw. Spray the lubricant around the head of the stuck screw and let it sit for a few minutes to penetrate into the threads. Then use pliers to twist and turn it until it comes out.
Method 3: Doing It With Heat:
Sometimes the only way to remove a stuck screw is with heat. Use a soldering iron or propane torch to carefully heat up the head of the screw until it becomes hot enough that you can twist and turn it out with pliers. Be sure to work quickly and use extreme caution when dealing with open flames, as they can be dangerous.
Method 4: Using a Hammer and Screwdriver
If none of the above methods work, then you may have to resort to brute force. Place a flathead screwdriver onto the head of the stuck screw and tap it lightly with a hammer until it loosens enough to twist it out with pliers. Be sure to exercise caution, as the force of a hammer can cause the screw to break.
These are just some of the methods you can use when it comes to removing stuck shower handle screws. Using one of these techniques, you should be able to get your shower handle back in working order quickly! Good luck!
10 Another Ways to Remove Stuck Shower Handle Screws
1. Apply penetrating oil or lubricant to loosen the threads. Depending on the type of screw, you may have success by applying a liquid wrench or another type of penetrating oil around the head, allowing it time to dissolve any corrosion in the screws’ threads.
2. Use a screwdriver to unscrew the handle gently. If you can get a grip on it with your pliers, try turning the screw counterclockwise and loosening it slowly. Take care not to over-tighten the screw as you loosen it, or you may strip it completely.
3. Heat up the stuck screw. If the screw isn’t budging, you may need to apply some heat. Using a propane torch or soldering iron, apply gentle heat to the head of the screw and wait a few minutes before trying to turn it again.
4. Try using vice grips for leverage. If a regular pair of pliers is insufficient to grip the screw, try using a pair of vice grips for more control and leverage.
5. Use a hacksaw blade or flathead screwdriver to slice through the head of the screw. If you can’t unscrew it and have no access to other tools, use a thin hacksaw blade or flathead screwdriver to make a slice in the head of the screw. This should allow you to extract it from its mounting hole.
6. File off the head of the screw using a Dremel tool or grinding wheel. If all else fails, try filing off the head of the screw with a Dremel tool or grinding wheel. Soften up the head with a torch or soldering iron to make it easier to file away.
7. Hammer the screwdriver into the head of the screw. If you can’t get a grip on the screw, try hammering a flathead screwdriver into the head of the screw and turning it counterclockwise until it loosens up.
8. Use an oscillating tool to remove the screw. An oscillating tool is a powerful tool with a metal blade that can be used to cut through most metals, including screws. This method works especially well for corroded or rusted screws.
9. Try using an impact driver or ratchet wrench for extra leverage. An impact driver or ratchet wrench are good tools to have on hand when dealing with stuck screws. They provide extra leverage and torque, making it easier to loosen the screw.
10. Heat the head of the screw using an oxy-acetylene torch or a soldering iron. If all else fails, you can try heating up the head of the screw with an oxy-acetylene torch or a soldering iron until it gets soft enough to be extracted from its mounting hole. Be cautious when using these tools, as they can cause severe damage if not used properly.
Once the screw is removed, make sure to replace it with a new one that fits and is made of a material suitable for the job. If you have difficulty finding a matching replacement, ask your local hardware store associate for help. They should be able to find something that fits your needs. Good luck!
Frequently Asked Question
Can I Remove a Screw Without a Screwdriver?
Removing a stuck screw without a screwdriver can be tricky. Depending on the material of your shower handle, you may need an alternative tool to remove it. If the screw is made of metal, you can use a pair of needle-nose pliers. If it’s made of plastic, you can use a utility knife or some strong tape to help pry it off.
It’s best to use caution when attempting to remove the screw and work slowly so as not to damage the shower handle. Sometimes, attempting without proper tools may be too difficult or dangerous, and professional assistance should be sought instead.
Can I Use WD-40 on a Stuck Screw?
WD-40 is a very popular lubricant used to help loosen stuck screws, but it should not be used on shower handles. The chemicals in the product may corrode certain materials and damage the shower handle’s finish. If you must use a lubricant, opt for a product specifically designed for use in showers.
Does Heat Help Loosen Stuck Screws?
Heat can help loosen stuck screws, but it should not be used on shower handles since it could damage the material or finish. Instead, try soaking the screw in soapy water or a lubricant designed for shower use. This can help to reduce friction and make it easier to unscrew the screw without damaging the handle.
If All Else Fails, What Can I Do?
If none of these methods work, it may be time to call a professional. A qualified plumber or handyman should be able to remove the screw without causing damage to your shower handle. They may also be able to suggest alternative solutions or products that can help make the process easier.
It’s always best to speak with a professional before attempting any repairs on your own to ensure it is done safely and correctly. Additionally, you should consider replacing the old screws with new ones after the removal is complete. This can help ensure that the issue does not arise again in the future.
How Do I Replace a Shower Handle?
Replacing a shower handle is not as difficult as it may seem, but there are some important steps you should take first. Before attempting to install the new handle, turn off the water supply to avoid any potential flooding.
Once the water is shut off, use a screwdriver to remove the existing screws and carefully pull out the handle. Clean off any residue left behind and insert the new shower handle into place. Reattach all screws securely before turning on the water supply again. After installation is complete, it’s always a good idea to check for any leaks around the handle to ensure it is properly installed.
Conclusion
So, if you need to get that stuck shower handle screw out of its hole and back off of the wall, now you know exactly what to do. Breaking it free can be difficult, but with the right approach and tools, you’re sure to fix that handle in no time. Start by turning off the power and removing any excess moisture from around the area. Then take a flathead screwdriver or an Allen wrench and try to loosen it from its frame.
If all else fails, there are other ways to bust open these stubborn screws using a chisel or drill bit. Be careful, though — always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when attempting DIY repairs in your home. Rest assured, though, with patience and practice; anyone can learn how to remove stuck shower handle screw successfully!
