Drilling Through Hard Ceramic Tiles

The proper drill speed will prevent a disaster.

Drilling through hard ceramic tiles.

An ordinary steel drill bit may fail to penetrate the tile or cause it to shatter. These bits are more refined and far better able to bore through the ceramic structure without cracking it than regular bits. Figure out what kind of tile you have. Glass tile is used more as an accent and has only been around for 15 years or so.

Steps for drilling through tile 1. Use a masonry drill bit to make holes in ceramic tiles less than about 3 4 inches in diameter. Home renovation repair specialist expert interview. In general there are three kinds of tile.

If the tile is cracked you ll need to replace it before you continue step 2 choose a drill bit. Porcelain tiles for instance are harder to break through than ceramic tiles since they are very dense. To make larger holes you can use a ceramic tile hole saw which has a diamond grit abrasive edge instead of teeth. Search for an appropriate bit.

Instead use an abrasive bit like a diamond drill bit 1 x expert source art fricke. As a result drilling through porcelain tiles will require more work and preparation than cutting through other types of tile. Wipe the tile with a rag soaked in mild soap and water. Examine the cleaned surface for damage.

In most cases a carbide tipped masonry drill bit check my recommendations is your best option when drilling through ceramic tile. Glazed ceramic tile is the most common what you ll find in almost every older home and the easiest to drill through. Run the drill at about half speed and dip the bit periodically in water to keep it cool. Drilling ceramic tile requires a special drill bit and a steady hand.

A carbide drill bit or a diamond drill bit are best for drilling holes in ceramic tile.