Drilling Through Hard Ceramic Tiles

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

Drilling through hard ceramic tiles.

Glazed ceramic tile is the most common what you ll find in almost every older home and the easiest to drill through. Porcelain tiles for instance are harder to break through than ceramic tiles since they are very dense. Home renovation repair specialist expert interview. In general there are three kinds of tile.

What types of drill bits are the best for drilling into tiles. The proper drill speed will prevent a disaster. Figure out what kind of tile you have. Steps for drilling through tile 1.

Run the drill at about half speed and dip the bit periodically in water to keep it cool. Wipe the tile with a rag soaked in mild soap and water. Step 1 clean the tile s surface. Instead use an abrasive bit like a diamond drill bit 1 x expert source art fricke.

To make larger holes you can use a ceramic tile hole saw which has a diamond grit abrasive edge instead of teeth. These bits are more refined and far better able to bore through the ceramic structure without cracking it than regular bits. 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.

Glass tile is used more as an accent and has only been around for 15 years or so. Use a masonry drill bit to make holes in ceramic tiles less than about 3 4 inches in diameter. You will also need a specialized drill bit that can penetrate the hard surface of porcelain tiles. As a result drilling through porcelain tiles will require more work and preparation than cutting through other types of tile.

Drilling ceramic tile requires a special drill bit and a steady hand.