How To Drill Tiles Without Cracking It?
This article is a step by step process in drilling tiles, without cracking it. Many installations in kitchens involve drilling through a tiled surface.
It is essential to use the correct technique for drilling through tiles so they do not crack. The dust created from drilling ceramic tiles can discolor grout and sealant so you may want to vacuum dust from holes as you drill them.
Tools and materials
Felt-tip pen
masking tape
drill and bits,
vacuum cleaner
wall plug
Steps
1. Mark the point for the hole using a felt-tip pen. Apply some masking tape over the mark—it should still be visible.
2. Fit a tile drill bit. Remember to switch off any hammer action.
Selecting a tile bit: Tile bits differ in shape based on material. The spear-shaped tip penetrates a tile, then enlarges the hole to the diameter of the tip’s base.
Caution: Take care when changing a bit after operating a drill: the bit may be hot. Wear gloves to avoid a burn.
3. Position a vacuum cleaner below the mark and switch it on. Start up the drill on a low speed, and slowly increase the speed.
4. Once through the tile, change the bit for a masonry bit or wood bit, depending on the surface below. Drill to the required depth.
5. Remove the masking tape from the tile, then plug the hole with the appropriate wall plug, and insert the fastener as required.
Selecting wall plugs
Unless you are using masonry screws, a wall plug is required to secure a screw that is
inserted into masonry. The plugs shown here are masonry plugs, and the different colors relate to their width, or gauge.
Wall plugs are also needed to make strong connections in hollow walls such as stud walls; these are of a different design from those used in masonry.
