Glass & Tile Drill Bits

About Glass & Tile Drill Bits

Glass and tile drill bits are specialised drilling tools engineered to penetrate hard, brittle materials such as ceramic tiles, porcelain, glass, marble and granite without causing cracks or chips. Unlike standard twist drill bits, these feature either diamond-coated tips or tungsten carbide (TCT) cutting edges specifically designed to handle the unique challenges of drilling through glazed and stone surfaces. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks an extensive range from trusted brands including Bosch Professional, Marcrist, Draper, Faithfull, Irwin and Makita, offering everything from individual bits for specific applications to comprehensive multi-piece sets covering various hole sizes.

The category encompasses drill bits ranging from small 4mm diameters for pilot holes and mounting fixings, through to larger 35mm+ bits for plumbing installations and waste pipe penetrations. Diamond-tipped drill bits deliver exceptional durability and are essential for the hardest porcelain and natural stone, whilst carbide-tipped alternatives provide excellent value for standard ceramic tiles and lighter-duty work. Many modern designs incorporate HEX-9 shanks for improved grip and compatibility with quick-change chuck systems, alongside advanced dry-drilling technology that eliminates the need for water cooling on site.

Applications

• Professional Tilers: Daily drilling for mounting holes, pipe outlets and bathroom and kitchen accessory installations
• Kitchen and Bathroom Fitters: Installing sanitaryware, mounting taps, creating service holes and fitting towel rails through tiled surfaces
• Plumbers: Cutting holes through tiles for pipework, shower fittings, radiator pipes and waste installations
• Electricians: Drilling through tiles to install sockets, switches, extraction fans and lighting fixtures in wet areas
• Glaziers: Creating mounting holes in glass panels, mirrors, shower screens and decorative glasswork
• General Builders: Various installations requiring drilling through tiled or glass surfaces on refurbishment and new build projects
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home improvement projects including bathroom renovations, kitchen upgrades and mirror installations

Choosing The Right Glass & Tile Drill Bits

Material Type: Diamond-coated bits are essential for hard porcelain tiles, natural stone and toughened glass, offering superior longevity for professional use. TCT bits work perfectly well for standard ceramic tiles and are more economical for occasional use.

Hole Size Requirements: Individual bits suit specialist applications, whilst multi-piece sets from brands like Bosch, Draper and Marcrist provide versatility. Common sizes include 5-6mm for wall plugs, 8-12mm for standard fixings, and 20-35mm for plumbing penetrations.

Frequency of Use: Professional tradespeople should invest in premium diamond bits from Bosch Expert or Marcrist ranges, rated for hundreds of holes. Occasional users can opt for quality mid-range options from Faithfull, Draper or Irwin that balance performance and cost.

Cooling Method: Traditional bits require water cooling, whilst modern dry-drilling bits from MyToolShed.co.uk incorporate special tip designs for site work where water supply is limited. Check manufacturer specifications for your chosen bits.

Shank Compatibility: Ensure the bit shank matches your power tool. Standard round shanks fit most drills, whilst hex shanks provide better grip. Never use percussion mode when drilling tiles or glass as this causes cracking.

Safety Information

Eye and Respiratory Protection: Always wear safety glasses when drilling tiles or glass, as fragments can cause serious eye injuries. Use appropriate dust masks, as fine tile dust can be harmful if inhaled, particularly when working with porcelain and ceramic materials.

Correct Speed Settings: Never use high speeds or hammer mode when drilling glass or tiles. Use variable speed drills at low RPM (typically 200-400) for controlled, safe drilling that prevents cracking or shattering.

Material Support: Ensure tiles and glass panels are properly supported on both sides when drilling. Unsupported materials can crack under drilling pressure, potentially causing injury from sharp edges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use normal drill bits on tiles?
No, standard twist drill bits designed for wood or metal will not penetrate tiles effectively and will likely cause cracking or shattering. Always use specialist glass and tile drill bits with diamond or tungsten carbide tips designed for these hard, brittle materials.

What's the difference between diamond and carbide tile bits?
Diamond-coated bits feature industrial diamond particles and are significantly harder and longer-lasting, making them ideal for porcelain, natural stone and professional high-volume use. TCT (tungsten carbide tipped) bits are more affordable and work well for standard ceramic tiles and occasional use.

How can I prevent tiles from cracking when drilling?
Use the correct specialist drill bit, work at low speed, apply only gentle pressure, never use percussion mode, ensure the tile is properly supported underneath, and consider placing masking tape over the drilling location to help prevent surface cracking and bit slipping.