How to remove a stuck screw?

mrkhoavo

Hi, I would like to remove the cover on the garage door to locate the manual override. Right now, the remotes don't work and am unable to open the door without access to manual controls. It looks straight forward with a few screws but they seem stuck. So, help is needed on how to unscrew (loosen) these screws as they seem stuck. I have only tried with a screwdriver but it wouldn't budge. Any suggestions in any tips on loosing this?

JacobZ

Hi @mrkhoavo,

If you're having trouble with the screwdriver slipping, then you can oftentimes place a rubber band over the screw then with force, push into the screw while rotating. This rubber band can often help to grip the screwdriver enough to get it turning.

If the issue is not due to slipping, rather the screw is in tight and you can't generate enough force, then I would suggest you purchase a drill or impact driver, alongside a phillips bit, as they will be able to generate more torque than you will with a screwdriver. Again, you can use the rubber band trick, if necessary, but either way, you will need to press into the screw to prevent the bit from slipping.

The other thing you can try is gently lifting the cover while unscrewing. Oftentimes, the material a screw is holding in place will exert a downwards force on the screw which can but pressure on the thread. By gently lifting the cover, you will alleviate this downwards force, which might be all it takes to get the screw moving outwards

Give these methods a try and let me know how you go. I am happy to assist further if required.

Jacob