We’ve all had them at one time or another, stripped-out screw holes in our RV cabinets and doors. Often you can get around the problem by simply using a larger screw, but this isn’t always an option. If you must use either the existing hole or the existing screw or attachment, there is an easy solution that will cost you very little time or money.
To repair a stripped-out hole in your wood cabinet or door, you will need the following items: two round toothpicks (not flat), a pair of wire cutters, and a bottle of Elmer’s Wood Glue. A good wood epoxy also works well, but wood glue works just as well for these types of repairs.
To repair the stripped-out hole, cut a length of toothpick corresponding to the depth of the stripped-out hole. Cover the toothpick along the entire length with a good amount of glue, then insert the toothpick into the hole. Let it dry for 24 hours and that’s it! You’re ready to use the hole again. For larger holes, you may need to use two or more toothpicks side-by-side, but in most cases a single toothpick will suffice.
See! Wasn’t that easy?
Sometimes the hole is stripped because it was originally drilled in the wrong position, and the resultant excess forces on the screw did their nasty deed. If drilling the new hole is too close to the old, the original needs to be filled-n-drilled.
You can drill the hole larger, if the material isn't a thin panel, and fill it with a cut-off dowel of poplar wood, or pine. Punch the hole out 1/4", score the dowel and glue it into position like the toothpick above. Use a punch to start the new hole in the right place – it will center the drill bit and keep it from walking.
Drill, mount and screw.
LP
That’s a great temporary fix! I agree with the bigger screw thing, ‘cos you might end up cracking the actual wood if you screw the bigger one by force. What’s a good, sturdy alternative to wooden chopsticks, if I’m looking for a longer remedy?
Can you tell me if this would also work for filling in holes for hanging heavy blinds from? I would be afraid that the weight would be too much and they may fall down. Great post Mike.
Sure, if the surface is wood. Sheetrock? No. Thanks for your post.
Yeah , my toilet paper holder got loose and the hole is to big now for the screw to grab … what do I do now?
That's a great tip!! Gotta write this one down so as not to forget .. thanks.
Yeah, this is one trick that everyone can use.
That's a trick my dad taught me many years ago. Good tip.
Thanks, Susan.
Thanks Mike! Great tip…
Have a good one!
Thanks, you too!!