What's the best way to drill a hole in porcelain tile? I've heard a diamond bit is best, but I cant find one.
Answers:
Brav280286 is right. Use masking tape, it won't gum up the bit as much as duct tape and will keep the bit from travelling, then use an ordinary masonry bit, a diamond bit is overkill. A diamond bit is more for the professional, who would be using it on a regular basis, because they last longer. If this is a one time thing, like hanging a towel bar, then theres really no need to shell out the extra money for a diamond bit. Also, don't put a lot of pressure while drilling, take it slow. If you try to force the bit through the tile, you'll cause excessive heat which could crack the tile. This is true for both masonry and diamond bits.
Other answers:
you could use a glass bit, or a brick bit, but cover the place where you are going to drill with several layers of duct tape first. the ducttape will give the porcelain some structural integrity
make sure that the drill is going quite fast first, and dont apply too much pressure, as this will definately crack the tile.
practice first if you can, as it is a fine art
you could use a glass bit, or a brick bit, but cover the place where you are going to drill with several layers of duct tape first. the ducttape will give the porcelain some structural integrity
make sure that the drill is going quite fast first, and dont apply too much pressure, as this will definately crack the tile.
practice first if you can, as it is a fine art
Call home depot or lowes and ask them if they have any diamond drill bits. Or ask them the best way to drill a hole in porcelin tile. I'm sure they can tell you, and I'm sure they will have diamond bits, especially if they have diamond saw blades.
^ That duct tape is not a bad idea either.
I would think you should be able to go to Lowes or Home Depot or any of the big home improvement stores and they should have the diamond bits, or be able to tell you what would be the best thing to use.. Do you have a drimmel (sp??) they are a handy little tool and will drill thru most anything, my sister uses one to drill thru glass bottles and ceramics.. so would think one of them would work on porcelain tile.. and I do believe she uses a diamond bit.. hope this helps..
use masking tape to cover the tile where the hole is going,then use a masonry bit to drill the hole.do not use the drill on hammer..
Check at lowes or home depot the last time i bought a diamond drill bit it was over in the tool isle. the problem with going to lowes and home depot is that they constantly move stuff around. And yes duct tape is a good method. and is actually essential to prevent spider web effect in tile. if you cant find the drill bit look at where they keep the dremmils they have the bits for them there when cutting tile. and if not there try a rental store where you can rent chainsaws back hoes and bobcats. we use diamond bits at work and we sometimes get them at united rentals.
A carbide masonry bit will do just fine.I have used one on several occasions.
One important tip. Before you start to drill the hole, locate exactly where you want it to be. Mark it on the masking tape, and then use a sharp pointed steel punch to chip a small dent in the surface glaze. This will keep the bit from trying to "walk" all over the place when you start to drill. Usually a gently tap with a hammer will give you kind of start you want. It should look like a tiny pit. Don't whack it like you are driving a nail.