How to Drill into Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles

How to Drill Through Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles

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Perhaps you’ve just moved into a new home and are planning to renovate the existing bathroom. To do so, you may find yourself with a tricky task on your hands. To be specific, many DIYers and handymen struggle to drill through ceramic or porcelain tiles without cracking those tiles entirely.

No doubt, this can be a challenging task. But with the right tools, proper technique, and steady hand, you can drill right through these kinds of tiles in no time.

What Are the Differences Between Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles?

Tiles Before we jump into tile drilling tools or techniques, you should understand the medium you’re about to work with. Ceramic and porcelain tiles are fragile, after all, so it is important that you know how to treat them properly when a drill is involved.

Though it goes without saying, porcelain and ceramic tiles are very similar at their core. Both are made up of clay that has been fired in a kiln, usually with some type of colored glaze. However, porcelain is different because it is made up of different clays than ceramic. Also, porcelain is usually fired at a much higher temperature, giving it a higher overall density.

At a glance, porcelain and ceramic tiles often look the same. However, porcelain is usually smoother than ceramics. You can check this difference yourself by flipping over each kind of tile. When running your finger over this backside, a porcelain tile will be noticeably smoother. Ceramic tiles are usually lighter as well, due to their lower density.

What Types of Drill Bits Are the Best for Drilling into Tiles?

In most cases, a carbide-tipped masonry drill bit (check my recommendations) is your best option when drilling through ceramic tile. These bits are more refined and far better able to bore through the ceramic structure without cracking it than regular bits.

Meanwhile, if you find that you’re dealing with porcelain tiles, you’ll need to pick up a diamond drill bit. These are sturdy enough to push through dense porcelain without tearing up the glossy surface.

Diamond Drill Bits for Tiles

Should You Drill into Tiles Before or After Attaching Them?

If you have the opportunity to drill your tiles before they are mounted, don’t hesitate to do so. This can save you a lot of hassle because you’ll be better able to align your bore point while drilling vertically. If you plan to do this, though, be sure to measure out the size of the equipment you intend to mount through the tile.

In most cases, though, you’ll need to drill through tiles that are already mounted. This is possible, of course, but it does require a steadier hand when drilling horizontally. If possible, double-check what lies behind the wall you are drilling into to avoid any accidents after piercing the tile.

How to Drill into Tiles: A Step-by-Step Guide

Properly drilling into a tile may take some practice compared to other easier DIY home improvement jobs. But with these several steps, you should be able to accomplish the task on your first try.

Step 1

As with all home improvement jobs, you should equip yourself with proper protection. For this task, you’ll want some form of reinforced eye protection. In addition, you’ll likely want a simple air filtration mask to prevent the inhalation of aerated porcelain or ceramic particles.

Step 2

Next, you’ll want to gather together all of the tools you’ll need for this task. In particular, you’ll want to possess the following before starting in on this task:

  • A power drill (corded or battery-powered)
  • A small bucket of water
  • A Rag or a large sponge
  • Appropriately-sized tile drill bits (carbide for ceramic tile, diamond-tipped for porcelain tile)
  • Appropriately-sized backing drill bits
  • Masking tape
  • A marking tool (pen, pencil, or marker)

Step 3

Once you have your tools assembled, you’ll need to prepare the insertion point. You’ll need to use a great deal of precision when drilling on tile, not least because its surface is usually fairly slick. This can cause your drill bit to slip or jump, which in turn could lead to a permanent scratch on the tile’s outer surface.

To prevent this from happening, you’ll need to give the tile’s surface some traction without damaging it. This can be done by making an “X” with pieces of masking tape around where you intend to drill. Once that tap is on, double check your distance and leveling measurements before marking the precise insertion point on the tap.

Drilling into a Tile

Step 4

You are now ready to begin the drilling process itself. With your insertion point clearly marked, you can load the appropriate drill bit (carbide for ceramic tile, diamond-tipped for porcelain tile) into your power drill. Set your drill to its lowest speed setting. Keep your small bucket of water and rag close at hand, as you will need it soon after drilling commences.

With everything in place, you can place the drill bit up to the masking-taped insertion point and gently pull the drill’s trigger. Only apply a slight amount of pressure to the drill once it begins to bore into the tile. Pressing too hard may cause the entire surface of the tile to crack.

Step 5

Continue drilling for around 6 seconds at a time. Then, gently back the drill bit out and grab your rag (you may want assistance for this step). Dip the rag in the water and use it to disperse water onto the bit. This will help prevent heat build-up across the tip, which can damage it and cause other issues during the drilling process. Wait around 30 seconds while applying more water.

After allowing your bit to cool, you can continue drilling. You should repeat this cool down process for approximately every 6 seconds of drilling. Eventually, you will bore through the back of the tile.

Step 6

Once you are through the tile, withdraw your drill bit and allow it to cool. Once it is safe to touch, switch it out for your chosen backing drill bit. The precise type will vary, as some walls are backed with drywall while others have bricks.

Finish your new hole by drilling the appropriate depth through the backing material.

Summary

Drilling through your bathroom ceramic or porcelain tiles can appear challenging on the surface.

But as long as you have the right type of drill bit and follow the 6 steps above, you should be able to successfully complete this important DIY task.

There are important differences between porcelain and ceramic tiles, though, so be sure to review those differences before putting drill to tile.