How To Remove Plastic Screw Covers

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Written By Koushik Tarafder

Plastic Screw Cover caps are commonly found in various regular products, and on certain occasions, it becomes necessary to open these caps before unscrewing the items. With the proper knowledge and techniques, you can easily remove these cover caps without causing any damage.

Plastic screw covers are showing through the fingers

In this article, I will guide you through the procedure and introduce you to the related information for removing Plastic Screw Cover caps. So, let’s embark on this journey together-

Plastic Screw Covers In A Variety Of Designs (Types)

Plastic screw covers are available in various designs, which may come with the product. However, there’s no need to worry because the method of opening them is similar across different designs.

Hinged Cover Cap

Hinged-Cover-Cap

The hinged cover cap is a type of plastic screw cover that features a hinged design. It consists of a cap that can be flipped open and closed like a small door. This design allows easy access to the screw beneath it. 

Rubber Cover Cap

The rubber cover cap is a flexible, stretchable plastic screw cover made from rubber or rubber-like material. It is designed to fit tightly over the screw head, providing a snug and secure covering. 

Dome Cover Cap

Dome Screw Covers

The dome cover cap is a simple and commonly used design for plastic screw covers. It consists of a rounded or dome-shaped cap that fits over the screw head snugly. 

2 Methods for Removing Plastic Screw Covers

Here are some standard methods for removing plastic screw covers:

Prying with a Flathead Screwdriver

One of the most common methods for removing plastic screw covers is to use a flathead screwdriver. This method works well for screw covers slightly above the object’s surface. To use this method, follow these steps:

  1. Locate the screw cover you want to remove.
  2. Place the flathead screwdriver underneath the edge of the screw cover and gently pry it upwards. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as you don’t want to damage the surrounding material.
  3. Continue prying the screw cover until it comes loose.

Using a Spudger

Another effective method for removing plastic screw covers is to use a spudger. A spudger is a tool designed explicitly for prying open cases and removing screw covers. It has a thin, flexible blade can easily slide underneath the screw cover and lift it off. Alternatively, you can use other tools like a large needle to accomplish the task.

Common Issues and Solutions

Stuck Screw Covers

A prevalent problem when removing plastic screw covers is finding them stuck to the place. This may be due to aging, exposure to heat or moisture, or improper installation. To tackle stuck screw covers, consider the following solutions:

  • Apply mild heat with a hair dryer or heat gun to loosen the cover.
  • Use penetrating oil like WD-40 to break down corrosion or grime.
  • Gently pry it off with a small flathead screwdriver.

Broken Screw Covers

Encountering a broken screw cover is another common issue. This might occur when the cover is old, brittle, or damaged. Follow these steps to remove the broken pieces::

  • Use pliers to twist and remove the broken cover gently.
  • If necessary, drill out the remains with a matching drill bit, careful not to damage the surrounding area.

Common Mistakes to Remove Plastic Screw Covers

Numerous individuals resort to using improper methods or tools to tackle this straightforward task, rendering the cover caps unusable. Some might use blades or sharp objects, while others forcefully hit them, which is incorrect. 

As demonstrated in the earlier process, the removal can be effortlessly accomplished by following the correct guidelines. Unfortunately, these mistakes are common, mainly due to a need for more awareness regarding the appropriate procedures.

FAQ

Can A Plastic Screw Cover Be Reused?

Yes, plastic screw covers can be reused, but it depends on their condition and the type of cover. If the plastic screw cover is in good condition, free from cracks, and still fits snugly over the screw head, it can be reused without any issues.

Conclusion

I sincerely hope this article has been a valuable resource in equipping you with the knowledge and techniques to remove Plastic Screw Cover caps from various daily products effortlessly. Armed with these insights, you can now confidently approach this task without worrying about causing any damage.

If you found this article helpful, consider sharing it with your friends and family so they can also benefit from these useful and valuable tips. Let’s help others tackle this task with ease and make everyday DIY work a breeze.

Thank you for taking the time to read this article. 

You may read also – How To Remove Cable Clips

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