How to Fix a Stripped Hole in Wood

HomeSpot HQ
by HomeSpot HQ
It is very easy to strip a hole in wood. Sometimes the hole is old and has been worn down. Other times the screw is too short to support the load. Either way, there are several ways to fix the problem.
-Try to use a bigger screw to dig into untapped wood. Keep in mind you could use a longer or bigger diameter screw, depending on the situation.
-Drill out the hole and fill it with a dowel and some carpenter's glue. Drill a pilot hole in the dowel and insert the screw.
-Fill in the holes with a golf tee and carpenter's glue. Cut off the excess material and drill in a pilot hole.
-Use a shim to pressure fit the screw as a temporary measure.
Using a bigger screw to secure a door hinge.
Using a tee to plug a stripped hole.
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Frequently asked questions
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  1 question
  • Nancy Clark Jowers Nancy Clark Jowers on Aug 07, 2017

    Not a question. My mom would wrap the scre with cloth soaked in glue and then screw it in . Left to cure or "set up" this would actually even tighyen up a chair joint. Have you ever tried it?

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  • Nadine Hartman Bourne Nadine Hartman Bourne on Jul 29, 2017

    I used wood glue when I had this issue with my bathroom door. Filled the holes with glue, put in the screws and let dry. the glue forms around the screws and holds them in tight.


  • Em Em on Jun 21, 2021

    You can use any scrap of wood to fill a larger hole. Wooden match sticks, toothpicks, or just any small scrap of wood will work. Add a little wood glue and let it dry then put the original screw back in.

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