How to Remove a Pop Rivet

Learning how to remove a pop rivet can make certain projects much easier and less of a problem. Not knowing how to remove a pop rivet can end up causing damage to the object itself. Pop rivets are some of the most simple types of fixings used to fix 2 pieces of metal together. If pop rivets are removed properly then there won't be any damage caused to the metal itself. Removing the pop rivets is actually very easy, you will simply need a drill and drill bit capable of drilling through metal. Once the rivet has been removed it's then possible to rivet the metal together again or fix it in another way

Step 1 - Selecting Your Drill Bit

You will first need to spend time carefully choosing the right drill bit for your project. The drill bit needs to be slightly bigger than the stem of the rivet but smaller than the head. The purpose of drilling through the rivet isn't to drill right the way though, it's simply to take the head of the rivet off so that the fastening can be removed. The drill bit you choose should be able to cut the head off the rivet.

Step 2 - Preparation

Put the drill bit into the drill and tighten the chuck up. Make sure that you support the metal work properly so that you can safely and easily work on the rivet in question.

Step 3 - Drilling

Place the drill in the center of the head of the rivet and start to drill, but keep the speed low at this point. It can be difficult not to skid everywhere when drilling rivets which is why you will need to keep the speed down. Once the head comes always from the body of the rivet you will then need to stop drilling. Do this quickly because carrying on could cause damage.

If you find it hard to start drilling then you can use the center punch to make a mark on the rivet so that you can locate the drill bit better.

Step 4 - Removing the Rest of the Rivet

If the rivet hasn't come out already due to the vibrations then you will simply remove the rest of the rivet by using the center punch and hammer. Put the center punch onto the center of the rivet stem and then give it a hit, this should make the rest of the rivet fall out. If you have done this carefully and properly then the metal should not be damaged at all.

Step 5 - Repeating on Other Rivets

Now you will need to repeat the process on other rivets until you have removed all of them. The 2 pieces of metal will now be separate and can be removed. You can then choose another method of fixing or decide to rivet them again.