How to Drill into Tile

How to Drill Into Tile Without Cracking It

Thinking of putting up a bathroom cabinet, shelf, or towel rail? If your walls are tiled, drilling into them can be intimidating — one wrong move and you could crack a tile or damage the wall behind.

This guide will show you exactly how to drill into tile safely and accurately, using tools available to hire from Speedy. Whether you’re renovating your bathroom or updating your kitchen splashback, we’ve got you covered.

Tools and Equipment You’ll Need

You don’t need specialist tools, you’ll only use them once. Just hire the essentials from Speedy to get the job done like a pro:

• Drill – Ideal for controlled drilling, especially in tight bathroom spaces

• Tile Drill Bit – Designed to drill through ceramic or porcelain without cracking

• Masking Tape – Helps mark and guide the drill bit

• Pencil or Marker – To mark your drilling point

• PPE – Goggles protect your eyes from dust or tile fragments. A mask will prevent inhalation of dust. Gloves will protect hands from sharp edges, too

• Dust Sheet – Keeps your workspace clean

• Vacuum or Dust Extractor – Optional but handy for keeping the area tidy

How to Drill Into Tile: Step-by-Step

1. Mark Your Drilling Spot

Use a pencil or non-permanent marker to mark where you need the hole. Use masking tape over the mark to help stop the drill bit slipping on the smooth surface.

2. Choose the Right Drill Bit

Use a carbide-tipped or diamond tile drill bit, as ordinary wood or masonry bits won’t work and may damage the tile.

3. Go Slow and Steady

Fit the tile bit to your cordless drill (available from Speedy). Set the drill to a slow speed and don’t use the hammer setting – this can shatter the tile. Apply steady pressure and let the bit do the work.

4. Keep the Bit Cool (If Needed)

For harder tiles like porcelain, occasionally dipping the bit in water or spraying with a little water helps prevent overheating.

5. Drill Through the Tile, Then the Wall

Once you’ve drilled through the tile surface, you may need to switch to a masonry drill bit to continue into the wall behind, especially for rawl plugs or fixings.

6. Insert Wall Plugs or Fixings

Clean the hole of dust, then insert suitable wall plugs for your fitting type. You’re now ready to attach whatever you’re installing.

Top Tips for Success

• Drill perpendicular to the tile to avoid angled holes

• Use painter’s tape as a visual guide and surface protector

• Don’t rush – slow drilling avoids overheating and breakages

• Clean as you go for a safer and neater work area

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FAQs

How do I drill into tile without cracking it?

To drill into tile without cracking it, use masking tape to mark the spot, fit a diamond or carbide-tipped tile drill bit into a cordless drill, and drill slowly without hammer mode. Use steady pressure, keep the bit cool, and switch to a masonry bit if needed for deeper holes.

Can I drill into tiles with a normal drill?

Yes, but you’ll need a special tile drill bit. Use a cordless drill on a slow speed setting and avoid hammer mode, which can crack the tile.

What kind of drill bit do I need for tiles?

Use a carbide-tipped or diamond tile drill bit. These are designed to cut through ceramic or porcelain tiles cleanly.

Should I use a hammer drill on tile?

No. The hammer action can shatter the tile. Use a standard drill on a slow speed with steady pressure.

How do I stop the drill slipping on the tile?

Place a piece of masking tape over the spot you plan to drill. This gives the bit an extra grip to start the hole cleanly.

Can I hire a drill for this job?

Absolutely. Speedy Hire offers cordless drills and tile drill bits for hire, perfect for short-term DIY projects like this.

Hire What You Need From Speedy

Drilling into tile doesn’t require a full tool kit – just the right tools for the job. At Speedy Hire, you can hire a cordless drill, tile drill bits, and dust management equipment, all with nationwide delivery and local depots.

Need the right tools today?
Hire online or visit your local Speedy depot and get expert advice for your next DIY project.