How to Use a Hammer Drill to Drill in Concrete
A hammer drill uses a rotary action on the drill bit that is attached to it, much like a normal power drill. But a hammer drill employs the additional feature of a rapid pounding operation, allowing the bit to break through concrete and other dense materials with greater speed than rotary drills. By using the correct screws and drill bit in tandem with a hammer drill, you can more easily bore into concrete to complete your repair. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Tape measure
- Hammer drill
- Carbide-tipped masonry drill bit
- Concrete screws
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Instructions
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Select concrete screws that have enough length to allow you to drive the screw at least 1 inch into the concrete. Measure any object you are attaching to the concrete, and add 1 inch to this measurement. This 1-inch penetration into the concrete will provide adequate stability for the screw. Choose concrete screws with a 3/16-inch diameter or 1/4-inch diameter. Select the 1/4-inch screws for more heavy-duty tasks such as securing a wall cabinet to a concrete wall.
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Install a properly-sized, carbide-tipped masonry drill bit into the hammer drill. Make sure the jaws of the drill clamp evenly around the bit. Measure the screw that will be drilled into the concrete, using a tape measure, and add an additional 1/4 inch to the screw length.
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Adjust the depth rod attached to the hammer drill so that the drill bit extends the length of the screw, plus the additional 1/4 inch, past the end of the depth rod. This extra length allows for any dust accumulation on the bottom of the hole that occurs while drilling.
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Turn the switch to set the drill to "hammer" mode. Set the drill speed at "slow" or "medium." Make sure that the forward/reverse lever is set on "Forward." Plug the drill's cord into the electrical outlet or extension cord. Position the hammer drill with the drill bit aimed closely at the point on the concrete where you intend to drill. Drill with a firm, two-handed grip on the drill and apply steady, moderate pressure. Do not press hard on the drill. Stop drilling when the depth rod touches the concrete.
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Blow the dust from around the drill bit in the hole. Pull the drill back, pulling the drill bit out of the hole.
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Tips & Warnings
Always wear eye, face, and ear protection while drilling.
References
- Photo Credit Martin Poole/Photodisc/Getty Images
