Drill Porcelain Tile?

Posted by Chamblin on November 28, 2005, 4:36 pm

We have a porcelain tile shower and need to attach handicapped grab
bar. How do we drill this tile? Diamond bit? What do they cost? What
is procedure...small hole first then move to 1/8 bit?

Posted by SQLit on November 28, 2005, 4:45 pm

> We have a porcelain tile shower and need to attach handicapped grab
> bar. How do we drill this tile? Diamond bit? What do they cost? What
> is procedure...small hole first then move to 1/8 bit?

Not to be mundane, have you considered that the tile is not there for
support of a grab bar?
When I put up my fathers grab bars I ended up ripping out the plastic tub
surround and attaching backing to the support members to get the bars in the
right places.

A diamond bit would be a good start. Be very careful near the edges. Go
slowly and you will be rewarded. A bit of water sprayed on the bit helps as
well.

Posted by RicodJour on November 28, 2005, 5:57 pm

Chamblin wrote:

1/8" is a small bit, but you have the right idea to start smaller and
work up. Try something like this: http://tinyurl.com/azxnz

Use a spray bottle of water to spritz the hole as you drill. I also
use a cup of water to periodically quench the bit. Make sure you hit
the studs if it's a grab bar.

R

Posted by Chamblin on November 28, 2005, 8:48 pm

Many thanks. Looks like Hitachi specializes in a bit set made for
porceline tiles.
Other brands only indicate ceramic tile drills.

Posted by Heathcliff on November 28, 2005, 6:04 pm

Chamblin wrote:

I have done this with a carbide-tipped bit they sell for this purpose,
the business end is shaped like the ace of spades. I think only the
one size was needed.

As others have said, grab bars must be attached to the studs behind the
tile. You can use a stud-sensor tool (electronic gizmo) to find them.

-- H

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