Mastering the art of setting screws with a drill driver is an essential skill for any DIY. When done correctly, it leads to secure fastening and a polished finish to your projects. However, improper technique can lead to stripped screws, damaged materials, and frustration. In this guide, we’ll explore the proper methods for using a drill driver to set screws effectively. This Old House’s Mark Clement shows the correct techniques for aligning and driving screws without stripping them.
Understanding Drill Drivers
Drill drivers are versatile power tools that combine the functions of a drill and a screwdriver. They’re designed to make driving screws faster and more efficient than manual methods. However, using a drill driver effectively requires more than just pulling the trigger.
Key Components of a Drill Driver
To use a drill driver properly, understand its main parts:
- Battery pack: Provides power to cordless models
- Chuck: The adjustable clamp that holds the drill bit or screwdriver bit
- Clutch: Adjusts the amount of torque applied to prevent overdriving
- Forward/reverse switch: Changes the direction of bit rotation
- Variable speed trigger: Controls the rotation speed of the bit
Selecting the Right Bit
Choosing the appropriate bit helps set the screws properly:
- Flathead: For screws with a single slot
- Hex: For screws with a hexagonal recess
- Phillips head: For screws with a cross-shaped recess
- Square drive: For screws with a square-shaped recess
- Torx: For screws with a six-pointed star-shaped recess
Preparing to Drive Screws
Before you start driving screws, there are a few steps to take.
Setting Up Your Workspace
A well-organized workspace can make a significant difference in your efficiency and accuracy:
- Clear the area of any obstacles
- Check for proper lighting to see your work clearly
- Keep necessary tools and materials within easy reach
- Use a stable work surface or secure your workpiece
Adjusting Your Drill Driver
Proper setup of your drill driver leads to better performance:
- Check that the battery is fully charged for cordless models
- Choose the correct speed setting (generally lower for driving screws)
- Make sure the forward/reverse switch is set to forward for driving screws
- Set the clutch to an appropriate level for the material and screw size
Techniques for Proper Screw Setting
Now that you’re prepared, let’s dive into the techniques for setting screws correctly with a drill driver.
Aligning the Screw and Drill
As Clement emphasizes, proper alignment is key to avoiding stripped screws. Here’s how to achieve it:
Hold the drill driver in a straight line with the screw and align the bit perpendicular to the work surface. Maintain this alignment throughout the driving process.
The “Jab” Technique
Clement introduces a helpful technique he calls “the jab” to get screws started correctly. Place the screw on the bit, gently push the screw and drill against the work surface. This action slightly embeds the screw, providing a starting point.
Driving the Screw
Once the screw is started, follow these steps for smooth driving:
- Apply steady pressure to keep the drill aligned
- Start slowly to engage the threads
- Increase speed as the screw begins to drive
- Slow down as the screw nears full insertion
- Stop when the screw head is flush with the surface
Avoiding Common Mistakes
To prevent issues like stripped screws or damaged materials, avoid common mistakes.
- Don’t apply too much pressure, and let the drill do the work
- Avoid over-tightening screws, and don’t use excessive speed, especially at the start and finish
- Make sure the bit is fully seated in the screw head
Tips for Screw Setting
Once you’ve mastered the basics, these advanced tips can help you achieve professional-level results.
- Dealing with stripped screws: If you encounter a stripped screw, try using a rubber band between the bit and screw head for extra grip. Use a screw extractor tool for severely stripped screws. In some cases, you may need to drill out the screw and replace it.
- Exploring various screw types: Different screws serve specific purposes and choosing the right type can improve the quality of your work. Wood screws are designed for joining wood without splitting. Machine screws pair with nuts or tapped holes for metalworking. Drywall screws are designed to fasten drywall to wood or metal studs. Knowing when to use each type can greatly affect the integrity and appearance of your project.
- Pre-drilling pilot holes: For certain materials or larger screws, pre-drilling can be beneficial. It prevents wood splitting, guarantees straighter screw placement, makes driving easier, especially in hardwoods, and reduces the risk of stripping screws. Select a drill bit slightly smaller than the screw diameter and drill a hole as deep as the screw length.
- Using countersink bits: Countersink bits create a recess for the screw head, allowing it to sit flush with or below the surface. This provides a cleaner, more professional finish and is useful for visible surfaces or when working with hardwoods. Attach the countersink bit to your drill and create the recess before driving the screw.
- Utilizing depth stops and guides: For precise screw driving, use depth stops and guides. Depth stops lead to consistent screw depth, which is especially useful when working on detailed projects. Guides can help maintain alignment, particularly when driving multiple screws in a straight line. These tools improve accuracy and efficiency, giving your project a polished look.
Maintenance and Safety When Driving Screws
Proper maintenance of your drill driver and adherence to safety practices lead to more long-term success and safety.
Caring for Your Drill Driver
Regular maintenance helps your drill driver perform at its best:
- Clean the tool after each use
- Keep the chuck free of debris
- Lubricate moving parts as recommended by the manufacturer
- Regularly check and tighten any loose parts
- Store in a dry place to prevent rust
Safety Precautions
Always prioritize safety when using power tools:
- Avoid loose clothing that could get caught in the tool
- Keep your work area clean and well-lit
- Unplug or remove the battery before changing bits or performing maintenance
- Use hearing protection in noisy environments
- Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris