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FIXINGS & FITTINGS

Screw Won’t Tighten

A screw that keeps turning may be in a stripped timber hole, a spinning wall plug, damaged metal thread or an oversized pilot hole.

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Remove the load before repairing a loose or failed fixing

Check for hidden pipes and cables before drilling. Stop if the wall is badly damaged, the item is heavy or there is a serious falling risk.

MOST LIKELY CAUSES

Start with these

Stripped timber hole The fibres no longer grip the screw.
Wall plug spinning The plug has lost contact with the wall.
Damaged screw thread The screw itself may be worn or cross-threaded.
Hole too large The fixing cannot develop enough grip.
◫ Symptom variations Match the exact movement, fixing or wall failure. ⌄
  • Screw turns endlessly
  • Fixing remains loose
  • Plug rotates
  • Screw backs out
  • Metal thread feels rough
✓ Quick checks Simple checks before redrilling or refitting. ⌄
  1. Remove or support the load.
  2. Identify the wall or material type.
  3. Inspect the screw, plug and hole.
  4. Check for hidden services.
  5. Choose fixings rated for the full load.
1 Step 1 — Remove and inspect the screw Remove the load first and check for hidden cables, pipes and weak wall material before drilling. ⌄

Check for damaged threads or incorrect size.

2 Step 2 — Identify the substrate Remove the load first and check for hidden cables, pipes and weak wall material before drilling. ⌄

Use a timber repair, wall anchor or threaded repair as appropriate.

3 Step 3 — Refit without overtightening Remove the load first and check for hidden cables, pipes and weak wall material before drilling. ⌄

Stop once the fixing is secure.

⌁ Common causes explained Why fixings and fittings come loose. ⌄

A screw that keeps turning may be in a stripped timber hole, a spinning wall plug, damaged metal thread or an oversized pilot hole.

⌘ Advanced diagnostics Further checks for heavy or recurring failures. ⌄
  • Plug and redrill timber.
  • Use a larger or different wall anchor.
  • Repair metal threads with an insert where suitable.
  • Check pilot-hole size.
  • Avoid repeated overtightening.
▣ Parts and materials needed Common materials linked to this repair. ⌄
  • Replacement screw
  • Wall plug or anchor
  • Wooden dowel
  • Thread insert
  • Repair filler
! When to call a professional Conditions that should end basic DIY work. ⌄
  • A heavy item such as a TV could fall.
  • The wall is severely damaged or crumbly.
  • Hidden cables or pipes may be present.
  • The fixing requires structural support.
  • The failure keeps returning.
? Frequently asked questions Common fixing and fitting questions. ⌄

Can I reuse the same damaged hole?

Usually not without repairing it properly or using a suitable larger fixing.

Are plasterboard anchors safe for heavy loads?

Only when correctly rated and installed, though fixing into studs or added support is usually better for heavy items.