If you’ve ever assembled IKEA furniture, you know that one of the most common challenges lies in dealing with those tiny, seemingly stubborn screws. Whether you’re taking apart furniture for a move or making adjustments to your current setup, removing IKEA screws can be tricky without the right approach.
Fear not, as this article is here to guide you through the process of safely and efficiently taking out IKEA screws. We’ll explore various methods and essential tips on how to take out ikea screws, prevent damage, and successfully dismantle your furniture without a hitch. With the right techniques at your disposal, you’ll be well-equipped to disassemble IKEA furniture with ease and precision.
The Importance of Proper Screw Extraction
It is important to properly extract screws from Ikea products. If the screw is not removed correctly, it can cause damage to the product. This can be expensive and time consuming to repair. It can also lead to a decrease in the life of the product or even complete failure of the piece if not handled properly. With a few simple steps, you can easily take out Ikea screws without causing any damage.
The first step in extracting an Ikea screw is to use the correct tool for the job. A slotted (flathead) screwdriver should be used on traditional flathead screws and a Phillips head screwdriver should be used on cross-shaped Phillips head screws. Using these tools will make it easier to remove the screws.
Once the correct tool has been selected, it is important to loosen the screw gently. Using too much force can strip or break the head of the screw and make it very difficult to remove. Instead, apply just enough pressure until the screw begins to turn and then gradually increase until it is loose enough to remove by hand.
Finally, once the screw is loose enough to remove with your fingers, be sure to pull it straight out. Pulling at an angle can cause unnecessary damage to the product’s frame or design. With these simple steps in mind, you will be able to take out Ikea screws without damaging them or any other part of your furniture. Taking proper care when removing screws can help extend the life of your product and save you time and money in repairs.
Common Challenges Faced During Ikea Furniture Assembly
One of the most common challenges many people face when trying to assemble their Ikea furniture is getting all of the screws out correctly. Knowing how to take out Ikea screws properly can help you save time and effort in the assembly process. Below, we will explain some tips for taking out those pesky little screws safely and efficiently!
Another challenge that comes with assembling Ikea furniture is ensuring accurate alignment while joining two pieces together. This requires careful measurements of each part before beginning to screw them in place.
If any measurement is off, the furniture may become misaligned or crooked resulting in an awkward looking piece that could be difficult to fix. To avoid this issue, always double-check your measurements before starting to put it together.
In addition, many people find that Ikea furniture can be bulky and difficult to maneuver around during assembly. The larger pieces often have to be moved by two people due to their weight and size, making it a bit of a challenge for anyone trying to put together their furniture solo. To make this process easier, try breaking down large pieces into smaller sections before moving them around your home or workspace.
10 Methods How to Take Out Ikea Screws
Method 1: Use the Right Screwdriver
When attempting to take out IKEA screws, one of the most crucial steps is to ensure you have the correct screwdriver for the task. IKEA often provides furniture with unique screw heads that require specific screwdriver types. Before you begin, check the instructions or packaging to identify the precise screwdriver head needed.
Using the wrong screwdriver can lead to disastrous consequences, such as stripped screw heads or damage to the furniture. Therefore, investing in a high-quality screwdriver set with various interchangeable heads is essential.
Method 2: Apply Penetrating Oil
If you encounter IKEA screws that seem stuck due to rust, corrosion, or debris accumulation, applying penetrating oil can be a game-changer. Penetrating oil, such as well-known brands like WD-40 or PB Blaster, is designed to seep into the tiny gaps between the threads of the screws, breaking down any rust or grime that may have accumulated over time.
Before applying the oil, make sure the area is well-ventilated and wear safety gloves to protect your hands. Let the penetrating oil sit for a few minutes, allowing it to work its magic and loosen the screws.
Method 3: Apply Heat
For IKEA screws that are stubbornly stuck due to dried glue or adhesive, applying heat can be an effective solution. To utilize this method, you can use a heat gun or a hairdryer on its highest heat setting to warm up the area around the screw. The heat will cause the surrounding material to expand slightly, which might break the grip between the screw and the furniture.
It is essential to exercise caution while applying heat, especially if the furniture contains plastic or other heat-sensitive components. Additionally, avoid applying too much heat for an extended period, as it can damage the furniture’s finish or warp the material.
Method 4: Use a Rubber Band
Stripped screw heads can be a significant challenge, making it difficult for the screwdriver to grip and turn the screws effectively. However, there is a simple and ingenious solution: a rubber band. Placing a wide rubber band over the stripped screw head can provide the necessary grip to turn it. Press down firmly on the screwdriver while turning it counterclockwise.
The rubber band fills the gaps in the stripped head, creating enough friction for the screwdriver to gain traction and remove the screw. This method is a lifesaver when dealing with screws that seem almost impossible to turn due to excessive wear.
Method 5: Apply Pressure and Turn Slowly
When attempting to take out stubborn IKEA screws, exercising patience and caution is of the utmost importance. Applying steady pressure while turning the screw slowly is often a highly effective technique.
Rushing the process or applying excessive force can lead to the screwdriver slipping, causing damage to the screw head or furniture. By turning the screw gently clockwise and then counterclockwise, gradually increasing the pressure, you can help break any bonds that might be holding the screw in place.
Method 6: Use Pliers or Vice Grips
In cases where the screw head is severely damaged or has little to no grip left, using pliers or vice grips can be a viable solution. Carefully grasp the screw head with the pliers or vice grips, ensuring a firm grip without damaging the surrounding furniture.
Turn the pliers or vice grips counterclockwise to remove the screw. While using this method, it is essential to exert even pressure and avoid applying excessive force that could lead to further damage or stripping of the screw head.
Method 7: Tap the Screwdriver
Sometimes, even a minor adjustment can make a significant difference when dealing with stuck IKEA screws. When the screws seem stubborn and unyielding, tapping the screwdriver with a hammer can help loosen the screws. The light impacts from the hammer can break the screws free from any adhesives or stuck debris. While tapping, maintain downward pressure on the screwdriver to prevent it from slipping off the screw head.
Method 8: Create a New Groove
When dealing with severely stripped screw heads, creating a new groove for the screwdriver can provide the necessary traction to turn the screws. Using a rotary tool or a small hacksaw, carefully cut a new groove across the screw head’s surface. By making a new slot for the screwdriver to engage, you can effectively remove the screws even with heavily worn or damaged heads.
Method 9: Drill the Screw Out
As a last resort, drilling out the IKEA screw might be necessary if all other methods have failed. This method requires caution and precision to avoid damaging the surrounding furniture. Start by selecting a drill bit slightly smaller than the diameter of the screw. Create a pilot hole in the center of the screw head.
Afterward, use a larger drill bit to remove the remaining screw material. Keep in mind that drilling out the screw will leave you with a hole, so ensure you have a plan for replacing the screw or securing the furniture through alternative means.
Method 10: Seek Professional Help
If you encounter persistent difficulties, the screws seem unyielding, or you fear damaging the furniture, it may be best to seek professional assistance.
A skilled handyman or furniture assembly expert will have the experience and tools to safely and effectively remove stubborn IKEA screws without causing any harm to the furniture. Professional assistance ensures that your furniture remains intact, and you can avoid potential costly mistakes in the process.
Conclusion
To sum up, taking out those pesky Ikea screws doesn’t have to be a tedious exercise. With these simple steps, you can easily and quickly tackle the task! Be sure to use the right screwdriver for the head size on your thingamajig and securely place any screws you take out in a container or paper cup.
As with any project involving tools, be sure to practice safety first and work in a well-ventilated area if necessary. If all else fails, as the old saying goes, “A friend in need is a friend indeed!” Ask friends or family for help – they may have extra tips or tricks that could really help you out. At least now you know how to take out Ikea screws with confidence and ease! So why wait? Get started and tackle this problem today!
