Rusted screws

[Will Mead]

Hi,

I am keen to replace the shower door (above bath) in my bathroom but the screws a rusted and I think need drilling out. Can anyone advise on how I can get these screws out without breaking the tiling behind the? I have read various guides and most suggest using a drill bit designed for metal and drilling into the screw. The screws seem so small that I would need a very fine drill bit, and the how do I get them out once I have drilled? Or does anyone have any better suggestions?

 

[footprints]

I would try breaking up the plastic fitting, then grip the screws with a pair of mole grips.

 

[foxhole]

Or you could try screw extractor.
http://www.screwfix.com/p/screw-ext...ping - Tools&gclid=CIr6jPTlrswCFSco0wodxCUESw

 

[Chud]

Can't you use Oxalic acid to remove/eat rust - if you can find a way to pack a bit of kitchen roll soaked in oxalic acid it might do the trick. failing that a screw extractor kit (screwfix etc) is what you'll need if you don't want to attack the plastic fitting.

 

[Burnerman]

You never know, the screws may just oblige, if you use a good unworn screwdriver.....
If they don't, drill the heads off to release the plastic part, then try mole grips.
If you are replacing the door, try to hide the position of the old screws with the new one.
John

 

[JohnD]

If you have a soldering iron, and touch the head to the tip, the heat tends to break rust and loosen the screw as it expands, then shrinks as it cools.

Yes, it is essential to use the correct screwdriver.

If the screwhead is worn, a rubber band will take up a bit of slack.

BTW
get stainless screw for next time.

 

[Gerrydelasel]

If the screwhead is worn, a rubber band will take up a bit of slack.

Eh?

 

[JohnD]

https://nortonsafe.search.ask.com/w...S&chn=1000&geo=GB&ver=22&locale=en_GB&tpr=111

 

[Burnerman]

Sounds like a tip from B. Bucknell Esq, that one......
If the OP is still around, use a new screwdriver, bray it in with a hammer, press like hell and turn......it'll either move or shear off.
John

 

[JohnD]

or employ an insect

 

[lostinthelight]

Dremel with a cutting disc and cut a deeper slot, I have done it scores of times