Screw issue

Hi All,

Hope you are all well.

I'm a DIY beginner so I thought of asking you all for help.

Please see picture attached.
//media.diynot.com/217000_216631_74891_91363817_thumb.jpg

I have a coat hanger that was fixed inside my wardrobe many years ago (6+), which I am trying to remove. Unfortunately, the screws won't come off.

I have used various different screwdrivers, but they keep slipping off... and it was all painted over in white so I think the paint around the circular edge of the screw might be causing a problem too.

Sounds like a small problem, but because of this, I can't fix the ends for a new rod, and hence, can't use the whole wardrobe altogether.

Any suggestions would be much appreciated.

Thank you,
Andy

Hi Andy. Welcome to DIYnot.

From what I can see, you've only tried the lower screw so far. If you can get the other one out, you'll be able to twist the whole thing around on the bad one while also using the screwdriver. This can make all the difference.

Before you attack the upper screw, start by scraping out the paint; all of it! Then use a screwdriver that's a really good fit. You want a blade with a good sharp, square end. You also want one with a tough handle because, if that screw still won't turn, you can try hitting the handle with a hammer while also twisting it with your other hand.

If you can get any movement at all, twisting back and forth, alternately tightening and slackening, will loosen the threads.

Hope this helps.

You have chewed the lower screw slot up pretty badly now. Get a normal manual, decent quality screwdriver with sharp edges, that probably means a new one unless you can grind or file to a proper shape. It should fit the slot, but be just less on width so that it doesn't dig in to the metal behind with it's corners. Put it in the slot and give it a couple of sharp taps with a hammer. Put plenty of pressure against it and turn. It should come out.

You can also try driving the screw around by using a punch or a screwdriver on one side of the slot and tapping with a hammer to drive the screw round.

If you have access to a Dremel type tool you can clean the slot up.

Clean the paint out of the slot on the top screw first with the corner of the screwdriver before trying to turn it.

Or what Space Cat said above!

Don't waste your time. Drill 'em.

2mm bang in the middle, followed by a 5mm. Fill. Paint. Done.