Why can't I drill through wood?
Samuel Coleman
Updated on June 03, 2026
The primary reason your screw won't go into the wood is that it's reached a particularly dense section of wood, and needs a bit more force. To mitigate the issue, drill a larger pilot hole, use a better quality screw, or get a more powerful drill/driver.
What bit to use to drill a hole in wood?
A spade bit, also known as a paddle bit, bores large-diameter holes — up to 1-1/2 inches in diameter — in wood. It has a flattened blade with a sharp point that helps position and steady the bit. Some spade bits have points at the two edges that help create a neater hole and exit point.Can you drill directly into wood?
Use your drill to bore into the wood about as deep as the length of your screw. Press the side of the drill bit against your finger to keep it from wandering and slowly squeeze the trigger to get it started. You don't need to press a lot of weight into the drill, just let the bit do its job.Why won't my drill bit go through wood?
The primary reason your screw won't go into the wood is that it's reached a particularly dense section of wood, and needs a bit more force. To mitigate the issue, drill a larger pilot hole, use a better quality screw, or get a more powerful drill/driver.Why can't I drill into the stud?
The most common reason a drill won't penetrate a wall at all is because the drill is spinning in the wrong direction. If the drill bit enters the wall and then hits resistance, the typical cause is a metal plate or masonry obstruction.MUST KNOW TIP & TRICK WHEN DRILLING THROUGH WOOD (woodworking secret)
What do you do when a screw won't go in?
At the first sign of trouble, spray the screw with rust penetrant (Liquid Wrench and PB Blaster are two really good brands). Let the penetrant work for at least 15 minutes. Then spray it again and tap the screw head dead-on several times with a hammer. Then try the screwdriver again.Do I need a drill bit for wood?
Drilling into wood can be done with specially designed wood bits, or with regular multipurpose twist bits. If you are using a regular drill bit, you have to stop and clean out debris from the hole as you go along.Can you manually screw into wood?
Can you manually screw into wood? Yes, you can screw into wood manually using the timeless, handheld screwdriver. This tool is your best bet if you need to install screws on a small or delicate wood project.Do you drill wood fast or slow?
The best speed for drilling wood depends on the diameter of the bit and the material drilled. Larger diameter bits require a slower speed, as do hardwoods. Drilling into softwood with a twist drill bit up to 3/8″ in diameter requires a speed of 3000 RPM, while the same bit with hardwood requires 1500 RPM.Will a masonry bit drill through wood?
The bits are made so they do not damage the wood when making the holes. Masonry bits may be designed for brick and stone, but they can also be used for drilling rough holes into timber if needed. It will, however, take longer and the hole will be rougher compared to a wood bit, but it can be done.Can I use metal drill bit on wood?
There are also different materials used to make the types of drill bits used for concrete, brick or tile. Almost all drill bits are made of metal. With few exceptions, metal bits are the most practical choice for every surface including wood, concrete, tile, glass and metal surfaces, as well.Why is my screw not going into the anchor?
Try wedging two or more wooden toothpicks in the anchor, preferably toward the sides (glue probably won't help since it doesn't tend to stick to the soft plastic in anchors). Now when you drive the screw, the toothpicks should push outward, creating a tighter fit that may be enough to lock the screw into the anchor.Do you need to predrill holes for wood screws?
Hole LocationIf you're inserting a screw in a small piece of wood, or near the edge of a piece of wood, drill a pilot hole first. Because your screw is closer to the edge, the addition of the screw to the piece creates force that could crack the wood.