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How to drill tile efficiently

muted color

Member
Joined
Oct 30, 2025
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5
I drill through ceramic and stone tile all the time in commercial buildings and sometimes hundreds of holes for dispenser installs. So I'm really not new to this but I'm struggling with the tile bits from the regular hardware stores. I know my technique and how to identify the material plays a role and I need to learn the right way to do this job.
Masonry bits work great for me on concrete and brick but they are terrible on tile and make for a really frustrating workday. Right now, I am just about to do anything and willing to spend money on high-quality bits for better efficiency and tool life. What your recommendation? Really need help.
 
28 years hanging stuff on walls. Not near the tile experience you have but done a few. Things I learned...
Use a dust catcher of some kind. You can make a vacuum attachment with PVC size reducers if you want.
Be very careful with a hammer drill. It's easy to crack tiles.
Take your time. Recheck measurements. Masonry holes don't heal.
Other than standard masonry bits I know if 2 types of bits that work for tile. There's a bit shaped kinda like an elongated heart these are great for starting holes. Believe it or not, try Harbor Freight. They put small sets on sale a lot. Just consider them as disposable. Maybe you can find a better quality at a different store.
The other type is like a tube with cutting grit glued on the end. These are a higher class of bits, but I find they tend to wander.
Just offering my 2¢ worth.

Eddie
 
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