Removing rivets from wood can be tricky and time-consuming, but with a little patience and the right tools, it can be done relatively quickly. This article will show you how to remove rivets from wood using a few different methods and other tips.
Table of Contents
- What Are the Most Common Types of Rivets Used in Wood Applications, and Why?
- How to Remove Rivets From Wood?
- Extra Tips for Removing Rivets
- How Can the Hole Be Treated After the Rivets Are Removed From the Wood?
- Rivets or Screws – Which is Better for Wood?
- Conclusion
What Are the Most Common Types of Rivets Used in Wood Applications, and Why?
Aluminum Pop rivets and groove rivets are commonly used in woodworking because they have a long mandrel that can act like a nail or screw. The mandrel expands through the head of the rivet into the object, creating a solid joint. Riveted joints are also less likely to loosen or vibrate over time than joints held together with screws or nails.
How to Remove Rivets From Wood?
There are two methods for removing rivets from wood. With either method, you can easily remove rivets from wood. The second method is the one I personally use in my work. I hope it is helpful to you. Let’s begin the discussion.
Drilling Method:
- Start by drilling a hole in the center of the rivet head. Be assured to use a drill bit slightly smaller in diameter than the rivet shank.
- Continue drilling until the drill bit penetrates through the entire rivet.
- Switch to a drill bit that is slightly larger in diameter than the rivet shank and drill through the entire rivet again.
- Next, insert a screwdriver or other tool into the hole and twist it to loosen the rivet.
- Finally, use pliers or your hand to easily remove the rivet from the wood.
Tips: A cobalt drill bit is ideal if you are looking to drill through materials such as aluminum, steel or stainless steel.
Chisel Method:
This is my second and favorite method to remove rivets from wood.
- First, use a chisel to score around the perimeter of the rivet head.
- Next, use a hammer to tap the chisel and drive it under the rivet head.
- Continue chiseling around the perimeter of the rivet head until it pops off.
- Use a Screwdriver or nail to drive the rivet through the wood.
Tips: When chiseling, be sure to use a sharp chisel and tap it lightly with a hammer to avoid damage to the wood.
Extra Tips for Removing Rivets
- If the rivet is challenging to remove, you can try heating the head of the rivet with a blow torch. This will expand the metal and make the rivet easier to remove.
- Wear proper eye protection when working with power tools; wear a dust mask to avoid inhaling wood dust.
How Can the Hole Be Treated After the Rivets Are Removed From the Wood?
After removing rivets from the wood, there will be holes left behind. These holes can be filled with wood putty/filler, a dowel, or left as is. If the hole is too large, filling it is necessary. If the hole is the right size, it can be left as is or plugged with a dowel.
You can also read our article on filling screw holes in wood to fill rivet holes. (https://toolsjoint.com/how-to-fill-a-screw-hole-in-the-wood-for-reuse/)
Rivets or Screws – Which is Better for Wood?
Both screws and rivets are commonly used in woodworking, and each has its own advantages. Rivets are often used in thin wood, holding the joint more securely and preventing loosening over time.
Rivets are also used in decorative woodwork for their durability and aesthetic appeal. In some cases, rivets may be better than screws, such as when attaching leather or fabric to wood. However, rivets usually provide a stronger hold than screws in many special woodworking applications.
Conclusion
With either of these methods, you can easily remove rivets from wood. I hope this guide was helpful. Now, choose the right one that best suits your needs and get to work! If you have any different opinions, please leave a comment below to let me know. Thanks for reading!
Read also: Different Types of Rivets for Leather and Their Uses