Drilling porcelain ceramics can be more challenging than drilling other types of ceramics. These ceramics are made of denser and more durable materials. Therefore, drilling them may require more work and preparation. You also need the right tools that can pass through hard ceramics without damage.
In this article, we will help you easily drill various types of porcelain ceramics, including porcelain facade ceramics, porcelain wall ceramics, and porcelain floor ceramics without cracks or damage.
What is the difference in drilling between ceramic and porcelain tiles?
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are both popular options for floors, walls, and other surfaces in homes and offices. Although they may appear similar, there are key differences between the two.
These differences in characteristics between ceramic and porcelain tiles can affect drilling processes differently. Here are some key features of each tile type and how they impact the drilling process: Ceramic tiles:
Porous surface: Ceramic tiles have a more porous surface compared to porcelain tiles, meaning they are more susceptible to cracking or breaking during drilling. The drill bit can catch on the tile surface and cause chipping or cracking.
Softer materials: Ceramic tiles are usually softer than porcelain tiles, which can make drilling them easier. However, this also means that the drill bit may wear out faster, especially if you're drilling multiple tiles.
Lower density: Ceramic tiles have less density compared to porcelain tiles, meaning they may require less force for drilling. However, this also means that ceramics may be more prone to cracking or breaking during drilling. Porcelain tiles:
Harder materials: Porcelain tiles are harder and more compact than ceramic tiles, which can make drilling them harder. Therefore, you need to use a glass drill bit.
Lower water absorption: Porcelain tiles have lower water absorption compared to ceramic tiles, meaning they have better technical specifications and require water cooling during drilling using a glass drill bit.
More durable: Porcelain tiles are more durable than ceramic tiles, meaning they are less likely to crack or break during drilling. However, the glass drill bit may wear out faster, especially when drilling multiple tiles. Tools needed for drilling porcelain ceramics:
- Diamond core drill bits for tiles and ceramics
- Glass drill bit
- Sponge and water basin or spray bottle (for use on tiles already attached to walls)
- Tile tape
- Marker pen
Safety glasses and eye protection
Cloth or towel for cleaning What size of diamond core drill bit or glass drill bit do you need? Ordering the wrong size drill bit can result in an unpleasant gap in your drilling that needs to be filled, so to prevent this, here are some useful sizes often needed for wall drilling purposes:
A 6mm hole in bathroom tiles and kitchen tiles for small items like kitchen towel holders, soap dishes, and shower baskets is often needed. Therefore, a 6mm diameter diamond core drill bit or glass drill bit is also needed for drilling it.
Larger holes like 8mm or 10mm are often needed for larger items like cabinets, mirrors, and showers. Larger holes like 20mm and 25mm are needed for tasks like pipe installations and fittings. Steps for drilling porcelain ceramics:
Step 1: Prepare and mark the tile Mark the required hole location on ceramic tiles attached to walls with a marker pen. Place tile tape over it. When you start drilling, the tile tape helps prevent any chipping on the tile surface.
Step 2: Start the drilling process Put on your safety glasses and mask, and start drilling with the diamond core drill bit or glass drill bit. Diamond core drills or glass drills should always be used at slow speeds, so set your drill's rotation speed to the lowest setting (you can always increase the speed after starting work).
However, remember that higher speeds mean more heat, which can break your tile or drill bit, so it's recommended not to exceed 10,000 rotations per minute.
Step 3: Drilling techniques Angle your diamond core drill bit or glass drill bit on the tile tape to start the initial cut for drilling. Turn it back to a vertical position to continue drilling at a slow speed.
At the same time, spray some water or press your wet sponge directly on the drilling process to keep everything cool. Conclusion As seen above, drilling porcelain ceramics is not a complicated task, and you can do it without any chipping or damage to the tiles by using low to medium pressure on the drill bit and drilling slowly at a low speed."