ᐅ What should I do if screws break while assembling the IKEA Besta unit?

Hello everyone, I am currently facing a problem while assembling my new IKEA Besta cabinet: some screws broke while being screwed in. I feel like I didn’t overtighten them, but apparently the resistance was too high or the screws’ material wasn’t strong enough. My question is, what is the best way to proceed when screws break during the Besta assembly? Should I replace the damaged screws, or is there a way to salvage them? Are there any special tools or tricks you can recommend to ensure the assembly remains stable? I am especially interested in how to remove broken screws from the drilled holes without damaging the cabinet frame. I would appreciate any experience or advice!

IDATO schrieb:
My question is, what is the best way to proceed when screws break during the Besta assembly?

Well, basically you can say: screws are prone to wear, especially with inexpensive furniture. Instead of getting frustrated, it’s better to critically consider the situation. Why are the screws breaking in the first place? Sometimes it’s the material, but often it’s because people think they need to apply full force instead of working more carefully. With IKEA furniture, it’s better to proceed gently and avoid overtightening the screws with too much torque.

To remove broken screws: using excessive force risks damaging the cabinet. A special screw extractor from a hardware store can work wonders, provided it’s used correctly.

My advice: replace the screws and choose high-quality ones for any future purchases.

Remove the screw using a screw extractor, get a replacement part from IKEA or a hardware store, done.

IDATO schrieb:
how I can remove broken screws from the drilled holes without damaging the cabinet.

Removing broken screws requires patience and the right tools. First, I suggest lighting the area well and, if possible, using a small pair of pliers to grip any protruding part. If the screw is completely embedded in the wood, a special screw extractor, also known as a left-hand extractor, is recommended. These tools have tapered, left-hand threads that bite into the metal and, when turned counterclockwise, remove the screw.

When using the extractor, make sure to apply it as straight as possible to avoid damaging or enlarging the hole. For soft materials like particleboard, I recommend carefully cleaning the surface around the screw with a sharp or fine knife beforehand to prevent splintering. If none of this works, the last option is to carefully drill out the screw and then re-anchor using a plastic or wood dowel.

Please avoid forcing the screw out, as this often causes further damage to the cabinet.

In addition to the previous tips:

- Using a screw extractor is the gentlest method for removing broken screws.
- If the screw remains embedded in the wood and the screw extractor does not work, you can try drilling a small hole into the screw and then use a suitable slide hammer to pull the screw out.
- With IKEA Besta, the holes are often designed for a stronger anchoring technique using dowels, so in case of damage, stable repairs can often be made with wooden dowels and wood glue.

It is important to protect the material of the cabinet. Minor repairs can often be concealed with wood glue and filler.

Get screw extractors and use them carefully. Have replacement screws ready at hand. Ask IKEA about the type of screw, as matching sets are often available in the spare parts department.