While you might need a professional’s help to fix your broken pieces of furniture, there are still DIY solutions that you can use to fix minor problems, such as stripped screw holes. This issue mostly affects the furniture and items you use the most or you had for a while. Luckily, some screw hole repair kits can make your job much easier!
The best screw hole repair kit is the one that is easy to use, does not require you additional equipment, and works immediately. Woodmate Mr. Grip is the most common one, but, depending on the material you are dealing with, you might need a high-strength solution such as 3M Small Hole Repair Kit.
If you are trying to fix your stripped screw holes on a Sunday and all hardware stores are closed, some useful DIY methods are worth checking out. Let’s check them out!
Why Do Screw Holes Become Stripped?
If you have noticed that the screws on a piece of furniture have become loose, you might start to be worried about what you can do to restore the beauty and, sometimes, your furniture’s functionality. However, stripped screw holes are among the most common problems homeowners have to deal with during the life of their furniture or wooden doors.
Stripped screw holes can be frustrating to repair, especially if you are not an expert in DIY projects. Indeed, if the job is not completed precisely and with care, you might end up leaving ugly marks on your furniture.
Screw holes don’t necessarily get stripped because of insufficient level of care. Rather, it is common for items that go through excessive use, such as doors, handles, draws, cabinets, or wardrobes. Sometimes, you might notice a stripped screw hole around the screw that holds up a painting or decoration because of the constant strain it goes through.
Stripped screw holes happen when the wood fibers around the screw have been damaged by weight or daily use. Since the screw might not work as well as it used to, this can cause your doors not to rotate properly and hang items to fall.
Best Screw Hole Repair Kits on the Market (2020)
1. Woodmate Mr. Grip Screw Hole Repair Kit
The Woodmate Mr. Grip kit is one of the most commonly bought because it is extremely easy to use and suitable for most materials and screw holes. Indeed, there will be no need to use glue or deal with long waiting times.
- Repairs holes made by screws
- Can be used to fix worn and stripped screw holes
- For use in wooden, metal, plastic items into cement,...
- Just cut strip to size needed, fit lengthwise into...
Each package comes with metal strips designed to replace the torn or stripped fibers around the screw. However, since the replacement you are positioning in the whole is made of tin, it will increase the grip to the screw, which will more easily remain in place.
The strips are also made of tin and include spikes designed to be a valid replacement to the gripping wooden fibers. Moreover, each package comes with easy instructions you can follow to fix your stripped screw holes in a matter of minutes. You can also repair more than a hole with the same kit.
Features
- Suitable for wood, plastic, and metal
- The tin strips replace the worn fibers
- It adds strength and grip to the screw hole
How to Use It
- Extract the screw from the whole.
- Cut the tin strips to suit the depth of the screw hole (measure it against the screw if unsure).
- Insert the strip you have cut into the hole (lengthwise).
- Place the screw in the whole.
- Tighten the screw
Pros
- Easy to use
- Effective in just a few seconds
- Does not require glue or weight times
- Affordable and purchasable as a multi-pack option
Cons
- Require you to have a strong pair of scissors
2. J-B Weld KwikWood Wood Repair Kit
When it comes to repairing stripped screw holes in wooden material, it is crucial to pay extra care and attention. Indeed, wooden furniture, doors, and cabinets might be more expensive and high-quality than other materials, making it paramount to care for it in the best way and preserve its beauty.
- ✔️Item: Wood Repair Epoxy Putty
- ✔️Size: 1 oz
- ✔️Shear Strength: 500 psi
- ✔️Max. Temp.: 250 Degrees F
Therefore, if you are trying to fix a screw hole in a wooden item, it is recommendable to use a product specifically designed for this type of material. The J-B Weld KwikWood is a wood repair kit that can be used to repair fractures, broken items, and torn screw holes.
Each repair kit includes a two-part heavy-duty epoxy putty stick that can help you rebuild damaged parts of wooden items. These two parts can be mixed by hand, so you can create a solution that works best for your type of furniture.
Once you have mixed the solution and applied it to the hole or crack, you will need to wait between 15 and 25 minutes for it to set. In 1 hour, the solution has blended with the surrounding material, and you can enjoy the restored look of your door or cabinet.
If you wish to use it to hang items, you can count that the epoxy solution can hold up to 900psi of pressure. This is also a long-lasting solution because it will not stain, mold, rot, or shrink over time.
Features
- Repair kit for wooden items
- Comes with a hand-mixable two-part solution
- It does not shrink or rot over time
- It blends with your furniture feel and color
- It can also be used for cracks and breakages
- Sustains over 900psi of pressure (ideal for wardrobes and cabinets)
- Only takes 15-25 minutes to cure your wooden item
How to Use It
- Clean the surface with detergent.
- Use sandpaper to roughen the surface slightly.
- Cut off or remove enough putty from the stick to fill the hole.
- Mix the putty.
- Knead with your hands until it gains a uniform color.
- Apply to the desired surface and press firmly.
- Wait for about 15 to 25 minutes.
- After an hour, you can drill the putty and replace the screw.
Pros
- Affordable
- Specifically made for wooden items
- It comes in a compact package
- Comes with detailed instructions
- It is easy to use on any furniture item
Cons
- Requires setting time
- It is not pre-mixed
3. 3M High Strength Small Hole Repair Kit
If you are looking at larger holes or screw holes that have become torn because of an excessive weight that has been applied to them, this repair kit can be the one for you. Indeed, it can be used to repair holes as large as 3 in (7.6 cm).
- CONTAINS all the tools necessary for a professional...
- KIT INCLUDES 8 fluid ounce tub of primer enhanced...
- FOR HOLE REPAIRS up to 3" in diameter
- 3M SMALL HOLE REPAIR makes repairs 3x faster than...
Since it does not require any other equipment, you can use it to repair a single hole, quickly and without other investments. This is also ideal for achieving professional results without investing in other materials.
Each kit contains:
- A self-adhesive patch or screen
- A mono-portion of primer-enhanced spackling paste
- A putty knife
- A sanding pad for preparing and finishes
The included spackle is designed to dry much faster than standard spackling paste and can repair any hole three times faster. It is also designed to prevent shrinking or cracking.
Features
- All repair tools included in the package
How to Use It
- Prepare the wall with the sanding pad included (this step helps to smooth out the surface before application).
- Position the screen on the whole, so it is completely covered.
- Apply the included spackling paste with the putty knife.
- Wait for it to set.
- Use the sanding pad to remove the paste in excess and entirely cover the hole.
Pros
- You won’t need additional equipment
- Suitable for most materials, especially walls
- Perfect if you wish to apply pressure on a new screw
- Works on holes as large as 3 in (7.6 cm)
Cons
- It requires time to set
- It requires spackling
- Some DIY skills might be required (especially on high-visibility surfaces)
4. 3M High Strength Small Hole All in One Applicator Tool
This is another professional product created by 3M, designed to cover smaller holes, such as nail holes. This is more suitable if you are looking for a cheaper product that acts quicker. However, it might not be suitable for holes that are larger than a common screw or nail hole.
- MAKES REPAIRS 3X FASTER than traditional vinyl...
- QUICK AND EASY repair for nicks and nail holes
- FOR HOLE REPAIRS up to 3" in diameter
- PRIMER ENHANCED spackling compound for great hiding...
Due to the enhanced spackling, this stick can cover and seal holes three times faster than using standard vinyl spackling paste and is ideal for nicks. Moreover, the portion of spackling paste included is:
- Primer-enhanced to ensure that the holes will entirely disappear, especially from high-visibility areas and locations
- Lightweight for you to use it on any surface, even on light panels
The 3M repair stick is designed for you not to need any other type of equipment, and all the tools necessary are integrated into the stick itself. Indeed, each product comes with a sanding pad, a portion of spackling paste, and an incorporated putty knife.
While it requires a few minutes to set, you can achieve professional results without having to invest in costly equipment, especially if you only have to hide or cover a small hole!
Features
- A compact stick that includes spackling paste, a sanding pad, and a putty knife
- It prevents cracking and shrinking
- Perfect for small holes
- Seals the hole three times faster than normal vinyl spackling
How to Use It
- Open the side of the stick with the sanding pad.
- Rub it against the hole to smooth out the surface (if needed).
- Apply a little quantity of spackling paste on the hole.
- Use the putty knife edge to smooth the paste out.
- Use the sanding pad again to finish the process.
Pros
- Affordable
- Do not require any DIY skill or additional equipment
- Help you achieve professional results
Cons
- Only suitable for smaller holes
5. Screw It Again
Produced in the U.S., this is one of the most common screw holes repair kits for DIY fixes. This screw hole repair kit’s popularity derives from the fact that it is affordable, accessible, does not require any equipment, everybody can use it, and there is no need for waiting times.
- United States
- Application: Fixing stripped screw holes in all types...
- Packaging Type: Clamshell
- Screw Included: No
Screw It Again is a product composed of wood anchors that aim at replacing the screw hole that has become stripped or torn. This solution won’t help you cover the hole. Rather, it can help you regain grip around the screw before placing it back in the same hole.
Each package contains several wood anchors that can hold up to 135lb (61kg), and they are specially designed for screw holes in wooden furniture, hinges, and fixtures. If you are looking at fixing your door handle’s screw holes, for example, this is the perfect product for you.
In each package, you will get tapered anchors that will fit most hole sizes, and they are complete with threads for increased grip. To use them, you will only need to snip them, reindeer them in the hole, and use the same screw as before.
You can use the anchors for antique furniture pieces and items without the need to replace screws because of this feature.
Features
- Wood anchors fitting most screw holes
- Holds up to 135lb (61kg)
- Suitable for all wooden surfaces
- Threads on wood anchors increase grip
How to Use It
- Snip the wood anchor at the desired length (check against the screw hole’s depth).
- Insert the anchor in the screw hole.
- Screw the original screw back in.
Pros
- The easiest product to use
- One package is perfect for fixing multiple holes
- Suitable for antique furniture because you can keep the original screw
- No DIY skills or equipment requires
Cons
- Come in a red color that can make them visible on neutral surfaces
6. Plastic Drywall Wall Anchors Screw
If you need to fix multiple screw holes around the house, there is no better kit than this one. With 300 pieces included, this kit is ideal if you need to keep all of your screws and drywall anchors in a safe place.
- 4 colors and 10 sizes, the most useful household sizes...
- 300pcs within a reusable clear plastic case organized...
- Constructed from durable plastic to last for years....
- Useful for different needs: hang floating shelves,...
While this kit requires you to have a driller, the pieces are suitable for holes in all shapes or sizes.
Everything you will need to do is to drill a new hole where the old one is, fit the wood anchor, and then replace the screw. For this last step, you can either use the original screw or opt for one of the new ones included in the box.
Each type of wood anchor also comes with different threading patterns, which makes them ideal for adding grip to any hole, regardless of how stripped or torn they might be.
Features
- Suitable for holding weights
- Many sizes to ensure you can use them in most holes
- Over 300 pieces included in each box
- Provide a clean appearance on drywall
- The box comes with labels for increased productivity and organization
How to Use It
- Extract the screw from the hole.
- Use a driller to redefine the hole.
- Clean the area with a cloth or air.
- Embed the drywall anchor.
- Replace the screw with a new one.
Pros
- Perfect for many uses such as bathroom fixtures, decorations, hooks, and TV installations
- Easy to use and fits any hole
- Affordable and accessible
- Comes with new screws suitable for the different anchor sizes
- The different colors are helpful to make them less noticeable in high-visibility places
Cons
- You will need a driller
- Not suitable for larger holes
Things to Consider on Picking the Best Screw Hole Repair Kit
First off, several products on the market could turn out to be useful to fix a stripped screw hole. However, the high number of models and kits might make a choice much more challenging, especially if you are sure which one is the best screw hole repair kit for your situation.
The Material You Are Dealing With
Before heading towards the nearest hardware shop, it is worth considering what material you are dealing with. If you need to fix a stripped screw hole in a wooden surface such as a table or door, you might need to buy a specific repair kit that allows you to conserve the look and quality of your furniture.
These repair kits, specifically designed for wooden surfaces, are easy to use and allow you to complete the process without having to be an expert in DIY. Wood repair kits are suitable for both screw holes and broken furniture, and they are made of epoxy, tinted to match the look of your wooden items.
Alternatively, if you need to fix a screw hole that is in a plastic or metal surface, and you need the screw to withstand increased weights, you should opt for products that are commercial-grade or tested for high-strength.
Indeed, picking the wrong repair kit if the screws are an integral part of the item’s structure might represent a health and safety hazard. And, of course, it can damage the furniture even further!
What Your Budget Is
Most repair kits on the market are suitable for any budget, cheap, and accessible. You might decide to buy them online and save a little more. This is only suitable if you are already confident with DIY, and you know what the best repair kit for your situation is.
Alternatively, you might decide to go to a hardware shop and speak to an expert. They can help you pick the product that suits your situation and the material you are dealing with. Such experts might also give you useful information on using your just-bought repair kit in the best way.
Generally, there is no real need to call in an expert to fix your stripped screw holes. Most DIY kits are readily usable for most surfaces and materials.
How Comfortable You Are With DIY
Screw hole repair kits are designed to be accessible and affordable by anybody, and they can be used to repair the majority of stripped screw holes. However, not all of them are so easily usable or include easy-to-follow instructions.
So, when you are picking the best screw hole repair kit for your situation, you should make sure that you can complete the whole process without running the risk of ruining the furniture.
If you have bought your repair kit online, you might also find tutorial videos for you to follow, such as this one:
If you preferred to purchase it from a store, speaking to an expert in the shop might help you get the guidance you need.
Other Solutions to Repair a Stripped Screw Hole
Above we have seen the most popular repair kits on the market and the ones that will help you achieve semi-professional results without significant investments or refined DIY skills. However, there are also other DIY options to repair your stripped screw holes that can help you in an emergency or when the nearest hardware shop is closed! Check out the easiest screw holes repair methods below.
Use a Different Screw
Using a different screw is the most obvious solution to implement. It might not offer you the professional, clean result that repair kits will provide. However, it can be an optimal way to keep your door working until your repair kit arrives!
For this method, everything you need is a longer – but not necessarily larger – screw than the one that was inserted before. Everything you will need to do is replace the old screw with the new one. Just make sure that the new screw can fit through the hole and reach the wood or other material that is still healthy.
As a test, you can proceed by checking whether the wood provides grip to the new screw. If it does, you can hand your door or home decoration!
Use Toothpicks to Fill the Hole
This DIY method for repairing a screw hole cannot be considered among the cleanest or elegant solutions. However, it can help you ensure that nothing will fall or that the panel behind will be subjected to further damage.
For this method, start by inserting one or more toothpicks (depending on the diameter of the hole) into the screw hole. Then, with scissors, a hammer, or your fingers, break the toothpicks off, so they are at the same level as the panel.
The toothpicks will fill the panel area that has been damaged and will provide additional grip to the screw. Now you can reinsert or replace the screw. You might need to try this method a few times until the toothpicks hold the screw in place.
Buy Plastic Anchors
Plastic anchors for wooden or drywall panels are among the easiest and most economical solutions to fix your screw holes.
Start by using a drill to create a larger and deeper hole exactly where the previous one was.
This step ensures that the internal surface of the hole that was damaged is removed. Once it is smooth and healthy, you can insert the anchor, and then the screw.
For a more precise result, you might also decide to use a countersink. For this, replace the driller head with a larger countersink than the hole and slowly drills through the surface. Do so only for the first millimeters. This ensures that the crown on the anchor (which is larger than the body) can stay flushed to the surface below.
You can learn more about this screw hole fixing method in the video below:
Use a Body Filler for Larger Holes
For larger holes, you might not be able only to use a wood or drywall anchor. Indeed, these holes might be too large or caused by an excessive strain added on the nail. There might also be a wall or panel damage to address.
So, to fix a larger hole, you might need to invest in a body filler or putty such as Bondo. This solution can be hand mixed and will allow you to decide how strong you would like it to be.
If you are planning on reinserting the screw after fixing the hole, you will need to follow the steps below:
- Create a larger hole by drilling through the existing hole.
- Start pressing the body filler solution against the hole until it starts to fill it.
- Lubricate a screw with a product such as WD-40.
- Place the screw in the hole filled with body filler (you are creating a cast for the screw).
- Add some body filler around the screw to seal it.
- Wait for the solution to dry.
- Remove the body filler in excess (the one around the screw).
- Remove the screw.
Now you have a smaller hole that ensures a higher level of gripping on the new screw.
Make the Most Out of Wood Dowels
Anybody who has at least once taken a trip to Ikea has a few wood dowels around the house. To fix your screw hole with these pieces, use a drill to create a hole through which they can fit. Make sure they are of the same length as the screw you wish to use.
Then, using a hammer, insert the dowels in the holes you have created. You will need to make sure that they are completely inserted and flush with the panel. Now you can reinsert the screws in the same place – benefitting from a new and integral wooden surface!
Conclusion
If you have noticed that one of the screws holding your doors or cabinets together has become loose, there is no need to call in a professional. Indeed, you can fix it yourself with minimum investment. Screw hole repair kits are designed to be used by anybody, regardless of your level of expertise.
However, when deciding on the best screw hole repair kit for your situation, you should be mindful of the material you are dealing with, your budget, and your DIY skills. Keeping these factors in mind allows you to complete the job without worrying about ruining your furniture!
