Drilling Through Hard Ceramic Tiles

These bits are more refined and far better able to bore through the ceramic structure without cracking it than regular bits.

Drilling through hard ceramic tiles. The proper drill speed will prevent a disaster. Step 1 clean the tile s surface. A carbide drill bit or a diamond drill bit are best for drilling holes in ceramic tile. What types of drill bits are the best for drilling into tiles.

To make larger holes you can use a ceramic tile hole saw which has a diamond grit abrasive edge instead of teeth. As a result drilling through porcelain tiles will require more work and preparation than cutting through other types of tile. An ordinary steel drill bit may fail to penetrate the tile or cause it to shatter. Figure out what kind of tile you have.

Steps for drilling through tile 1. Examine the cleaned surface for damage. Instead use an abrasive bit like a diamond drill bit 1 x expert source art fricke. Use a masonry drill bit to make holes in ceramic tiles less than about 3 4 inches in diameter.

Search for an appropriate bit. If the tile is cracked you ll need to replace it before you continue step 2 choose a drill bit. In general there are three kinds of tile. Drilling ceramic tile requires a special drill bit and a steady hand.

Wipe the tile with a rag soaked in mild soap and water. Glass tile is used more as an accent and has only been around for 15 years or so. Glazed ceramic tile is the most common what you ll find in almost every older home and the easiest to drill through. You will also need a specialized drill bit that can penetrate the hard surface of porcelain tiles.

Run the drill at about half speed and dip the bit periodically in water to keep it cool.