How to Use a Diamond Core Drill Bit for Porcelain Tiles
Porcelain tile has a very hard finish. Drilling holes in porcelain is often necessary for the installation of plumbing, fixtures and sinks or assistance grab bars in shower areas and adjacent to commodes. The best way to drill larger holes in existing porcelain tile is with diamond-tipped hole or core bits and a variable speed heavy-duty drill. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Painter's tape
- Permanent marker
- Putty
- Water
- Spray bottle
- Goggles, face mask and gloves
- Variable speed heavy-duty drill
- Diamond-tipped hole or core bit
- Sponge
Instructions
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1
Tape the porcelain tile with painter's tape at the location where you want to drill the hole.
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2
Draw a circle on the tape of the exact size you want to drill.
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3
Roll putty into a rope long enough to comfortably surround the hole you want to drill. Press the putty tight to the tape and tile. The putty should be about 1/2 inch from the hole on all sides. You are creating a water dam that will be used to hold water to lubricate and cool the bit while you are using it.
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4
Fill the putty ring with water as high as possible. There are lubrication holes on the bit to help water flow around the bit. Ring the putty tall enough for the water to cover these holes.
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5
Drill straight into the tile using a variable speed heavy-duty drill with a diamond-tipped hole or core bit. Keep the drill at lower speeds and allow the bit to do the work. Do not press hard. Wear safety goggles, face mask and gloves.
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6
Spray water using a spray bottle on the bit if the porcelain tile is on a vertical surface. Have an assistant continuously spray the bit to keep it cool during drilling. Sponge as necessary to keep the mess contained.
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Tips & Warnings
Allow the bit to do the work. Slower speeds keep the bit from burning up from friction. The tape helps prevent edge chipping and thrown porcelain shards.
Porcelain tiles produce a silica dust that is hazardous. Keep children and animals away from the drilling site. Minimize dust and don't inhale the dust. Use a silica-rated face mask if more than one or two holes are being drilled.
