Allen screws made from weak metals strip quickly, and using the wrong size Allen wrenches /hex keys can also damage them. Regardless of the reason, it's no fun trying to remove a stripped Allen screw.

4. Use a rubber band You may be able to use a rubber band to remove a stripped screw. Get a rubber band that's as wide as the screw head and place it over the head, then use a screwdriver or drill ...

With that said, here's how to remove a stripped screw using a rubber band: Place the rubber band across the head of your screw. Press the screwdriver tip down firmly on top of the screw head.

If your screw's head is stripped beyond salvaging, there still might be a way to remove it. It might seem counterintuitive, but stripped screws can sometimes be removed with a drill bit.

For example, using the wrong screw bit when twisting the screw can sheer off some of the grooves. Likewise, being too heavy-handed or trying to torque the screw too quickly can have the same effect.

To keep screws and nails from causing a hazard on the floor when they get dropped, use a magnet to pick them up. Sure, there are specific tools for this, but really any magnet will do.