How to Diamond Drill Porcelain Floor Tiles

Porcelain floor tiles are harder than ceramic tiles and durable beyond compare. The problem is that they're also quite hard to drill through and cut. To drill through porcelain floor tiles, you have to use a diamond drill bit.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Water kit for drill
• Spray bottle
• Pan to hold porcelain

1. Buy a hollow core diamond bit. A hollow core in the bit injects water, which acts as a lubricant.

2. Drill slowly so you don't fracture the tiles. Use a variable speed drill to control velocity. Harder surfaces require slower drilling.

3. Lubricate the drill point. You can buy a base and water tube that dispenses water onto the bit to keep it cool. The drill bit should never be warm or dry during the process. You also can spray the bit with water as you drill, or submerse the tile under a thin layer of water in a pan and then drill. Periodically lift and lower the bit slightly when you drill to allow the water to reach the tip of the bit.

4. Press down with light to medium pressure when you drill. Extra pressure increases friction and heat, which could burn the bit and fracture the porcelain.