PDA

View Full Version : Any tricks/tips on removing old deck screws?


Mojo_Risin
April 22nd, 2008, 09:23 AM
My wood deck is in bad shape and I'm in the process of repairing it - mainly flipping the current boards as most of the undersides of the boards are in good shape. Removing the old screws is turning into one big pain in the butt. I spent an hour last night on 2 boards! Most of the problem is on screws that have been sinked in and the wood has sort of engulfed them and it's hard to see the top of the screw. Some are just plain stuck and the Phillips head just strips out. I bought a "grabbit" screw remover but that doesn't really seem to work on these stuck 3" deck screws. Any other tip/tricks. I was hoping to salvage the current boards so I don't want to just rip it apart. My next thought is to just use a drillbit and drill out the problem screws completely but I don't know. Advice?

John

Hippie
April 22nd, 2008, 09:25 AM
Why not just sand the deck & restain it :shrug:

Mojo_Risin
April 22nd, 2008, 09:32 AM
Why not just sand the deck & restain it :shrug:

Well THAT DID sound like a lot of work :) But after what I'm going through to remove a few screws - I might revisit that. It's just the tops of these boards are really splintery and cracked. Removing a few screws and flipping the board sounded like a cakewalk. LOL

john