Replies

1. 
   DustynLefty | Jul 25, 2003 07:33pm | #1

   Noooooo, don't use that hammer drill!  I'd say start out the softest way first to see how hard the wall tiles and the job is.  My recommendation would be to use a "glass cutting" bit to drill through the wall tile.  The bit's cutting edge is shaped like a flat triangle or 2-dimensional cone.  Mark the spot for the hole with a magic marker.  Tap the tile VERY lightly with a nail just enough to make a dimple so that your bit won't skitter around but will stay in one place.  Once you're through the tile, if there is concrete behind it, then switch to a slightly smaller masonry bit to make the rest of the hole.  Putting wet paper towels to catch the mess underneath the hole you're drilling will help, because the tile and concrete dust is very abrasive and could scratch your tub or shower.

   Good luck,

    D&L

1. 
   gdcarpenter | Jul 25, 2003 09:22pm | #2

   I agree.  The only thing I might add is to get a set of the glass/tile bits and start with the smallest one and work your way up in size until you have the size you need.Let's not confuse the issue with facts!

1. 
   Scooter1 | Jul 25, 2003 09:38pm | #3

   In lieu of tapping the tile, I rotate the glass bit my hand until it scratches the glaze on the tile.

   Regards,

   Boris

   "Sir, I may be drunk, but you're crazy, and I'll be sober tomorrow" -- WC Fields, "Its a Gift" 1934

2. 
   steve | Jul 25, 2003 09:41pm | #4

   a new tapcon bit will drill through ceramic tile easily, just centerpunch your mark(gently)using a wood screw and drill at a slow speed and dont use the hammer action on the drill

   caulking is not a piece of trim

3. 
   JeffBuck | Jul 26, 2003 11:19pm | #5

   I set tile but rarely drill thru it.

   My shower door guy uses the glass bit.

   My plumber uses a diamond hole saw.

   So when I do have to go thru it .....I take their advice.

   Jeff

   Buck Construction   Pittsburgh,PA

    Fine Carpentery.....While U Waite                  

1. 
   caseyr | Jul 26, 2003 11:55pm | #6

   I used the Dremel tile bit to cut through tile for a shower.  It worked amazingly quick.  Once it goes through the glazing on the top, the rest cuts like butter.  I used it to cut 1" holes for the pipes by drilling stright in and then moving the bit in a 1" circle.   It cut so fast that I cut a little too much, but next time I will be more aware.  Oh, and I was using the smallest Dremel cordless unit, I think it was something like 3.2v.