I have a redwood deck I want to remove. The problem is, I can't get the screws out that are in the decking. I tried with my Black and Decker 3.5 amp power drill in reverse mode, but the screws didn't budge. What kind of power drill do I need?

Torque is what you need. Try a 18v dewalt impact driver. A little pricey but has the torque needing to remove the screw. Is the deck real redwood or is it pine painted red? What type of screws? If they are galvenized then they should come out pretty easy. I assume you are putting plenty of pressure on the back end of the drill/driver. Getting the screw started is the key. Good luck!

Buy or BORROW an 18 volt or maybe a 24 volt drill. I'm talking about cordless drills. Talk to the salesperson at the store about an electric (with cord) one of comparable strength. They have a special kit now that is made for stripped-out screws and bolts too. There're typically called screw extractors or easy-outs, but B&D makes this new deal.

dawgsnkats, yes, it's real redwood. It's a philp's head screw, I don't know if it's galvanized. Yes, I applied pressure to the back of the drill. I think it's torque I need. I actually could remove the screws with just a regular screwdriver, but I think it would be faster and easier with a drill with enough torque. Thanks for the suggetions, I check out if I can rent one.

The problem I have had with redwood is that it swells and shrinks around the screw over the years. This is a great thing if you want to keep your deck, not good for demolition. Another option would be to cut the pieces on either side of the fastening point with a sawzall or chain saw and remove by pieces. This may be a quicker option than removing all of the screws.

Get a drill with hammer drill option.

If removing the whole deck, then would be easier too cut it as dawgsnkats said.

Good luck

Chuck

Thanks for all your ideas you guys.

Skip the battery models and just use a corded drill that has more torque. Most 1/2" drill can do the job.